St Lucia, South Africa – Travel Guide

St Lucia, South Africa, is a little hidden gem on the east coast that offers an unforgettable experience thanks to its rich biodiversity, unique attractions, and stunning landscapes. The town is a gateway to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to an estimated 900 hippos and 1,200 crocodiles. In this travel guide we’ll cover the best things to do in St Lucia, how to get there, where to stay, and more.

St Lucia, South Africa

St Lucia is a small town located on the northeastern coast of South Africa in the KwaZulu-Natal province. Known for its incredible natural beauty, St Lucia is surrounded by wetlands, forests, and the Indian Ocean. The town serves as a hub for the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, an area celebrated for its remarkable ecosystems, ranging from coastal dunes and coral reefs to savannas and swamps.

The climate in St Lucia is subtropical, making it a year-round destination. Summers (November to February) can be hot and humid, while winters (June to August) are mild and dry. The area is a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers. St Lucia’s unique blend of marine and land habitats provides a home for a diverse array of species, including hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and over 500 species of birds.

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Things to Do in St Lucia, South Africa

There’s not a huge number of things to do in St Lucia, South Africa, but its short list of activities is truly incredible.

1. Hippo Boat Tour

One of the most popular things to do in St Lucia is the Hippo Boat Cruise. This leisurely cruise along the St Lucia Estuary gives you the chance to see hippos and crocodiles up close in their natural habitat.

You can enjoy the sights and sounds of these massive creatures as they wallow in the water, while your guide shares fascinating insights into their behavior and the ecosystem they live in.

The estuary is also home to a large number of crocodiles, though they are more difficult to spot. There’s also a huge variety of bird species, making the boat tour an excellent opportunity for birdwatching. Common sightings include fish eagles, kingfishers, and herons.

The cruises depart a few times a day in the morning and early afternoon and last around two hours.

2. iSimangaliso Wetland Park

The iSimangaliso Wetland Park is the highlight of St Lucia. As South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s an important area of the country. The park is a vast area that encompasses eight different ecosystems. You can explore its diverse landscapes, which include savannas, beaches, coral reefs, wetlands, and forests.

The main reason to visit iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a chance to experience some of the best game viewing in South Africa. Along with the more famous Kruger National Park, it’s one of the few places in South Africa where you can see the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. As well as many other large animals like giraffes, zebras, and a variety of antelope species.

You can also explore the park’s beautiful beaches, where you can go snorkeling, swimming, or relax on the beach.

You can self-drive around the park or book an iSimangaliso guided tour which includes snorkeling and swimming.

3. Night Game Drive – iSimangaliso

For an even more unique way to see the wildlife at iSimangaliso you can take a night game drive in the park.

This is one of the few places in South Africa where you can do a safari after dark. The night drive allows you to see nocturnal animals that are less commonly seen during the day, like hyenas, bush babies, and leopards.

Accompanied by an experienced guide, you’ll drive the park’s trails under the cover of darkness, with only the light of the vehicle’s spotlight to reveal the wildlife around you.

4. St Lucia Estuary and Boardwalk

The St Lucia Estuary is a stunning attraction in the area, and the boardwalk offers a scenic walk to it. The boardwalk is a wooden pathway that takes you through the wetland and mangroves to the beach on the Indian Ocean.

Walking along the boardwalk, you can spot a variety of birdlife. There are signs warning of hippos, crocodiles, and even leopards, but we didn’t see any.

The boardwalk is around a mile long and it takes around 15-20 minutes to reach the sand dunes.

Where to Stay in St Lucia, South Africa

St Lucia offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for luxury lodges, comfortable guesthouses, or budget-friendly options, you’ll find something that suits.

Luxury: For the ultimate luxury stay in St Lucia, Makakatana Bay Lodge lies within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park itself. The lodge has elegant suites with private decks overlooking the surrounding wetlands. Guests can take advantage of their guided safaris and boat trips.

Mid-Range: Lidiko Lodge is a charming boutique hotel surrounded by a tropical garden. The lodge offers comfortable and spacious rooms, with private verandas overlooking the garden or pool area.

Budget: Tented Village @ Urban Glamping offers a unique glamping experience that combines the adventure of camping with the comfort of modern amenities. They offer spacious, safari-style tents with proper beds and shared bathrooms.

How to Get to St Lucia, South Africa

Getting to St Lucia is relatively straightforward. The nearest major city is Durban, which is about 150 miles (240 kilometers) away. Durban’s King Shaka International Airport is the closest airport to St Lucia, offering flights from major South African cities as well as some international destinations.

From Durban, you can rent a car and drive to St Lucia. The drive takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic. The route is pretty much a straight road between the two and the roads are in a decent condition.

St Lucia, South Africa FAQs

Is St Lucia, South Africa Worth Visiting?

Yes, St Lucia, South Africa, is definitely worth visiting. The area offers an opportunity to see incredibly diverse wildlife and South Africa’s raw natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in safaris, birdwatching, or relaxing by the beach, St Lucia has something to offer.

Is it Safe to Swim in St Lucia, South Africa?

Swimming in St Lucia can be dangerous depending on where you go. While the beaches are beautiful, the waves and currents can be strong and the waters are home to crocodiles, hippos, and sometimes sharks. You should avoid swimming in the estuary or any bodies of water where these animals are present.

However, there are some designated swimming areas along the coast, like the snorkeling spots in iSimangaliso Wetlands Park where you can safely enjoy the ocean.

Is St Lucia, South Africa a Malaria Area?

St Lucia is located in a low-risk malaria area. While the risk of contracting malaria is relatively low, you should still take precautions, especially during the summer months when mosquitoes are more prevalent.

It’s advisable to use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants in the evenings, and consider taking malaria tablets, especially if you’re also visiting Kruger National Park on the same trip.

Is St Lucia, South Africa Expensive?

St Lucia, South Africa, is more on the expensive side but can be both affordable and expensive, depending on your preferences. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly glamping to high-end lodges. Activities such as game drives and boat tours can add to the cost, but these are far cheaper than elsewhere in Africa.

Is St Lucia, South Africa Safe to Visit?

Yes, St Lucia is generally safe to visit. The town has a low crime rate, and people are generally welcoming and friendly. As with any destination, you should take basic precautions, such as keeping your valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, particularly at night. For outdoor activities, always follow safety guidelines and listen to your guides, especially when dealing with wildlife.

St Lucia, South Africa – Travel Guide

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