- KwaZulu-Natal
- iSimangaliso Vleilandpark
- Western Shores & Charters Creek region
Western Shores & Charters Creek region, iSimangaliso Vleilandpark, KwaZulu-Natal
Western Shores ecosystem
The western shores ecosystem is a relatively dry ecosytem consisting of savannah and thornveld where the complex interactions of fire, man, rainfall and the soil has shaped the landscape and vegetation into its present form.
Charters Creek
Charters Creek lies tucked into the wooded western shore of Lake St Lucia and is reached from the N2 roughly 34km north of Mtubatuba, via a tarred road through the plantations of the Nyalazi State Forest. The gate is 13km from the freeway, followed by 5km of dirt road.
Set on a steep bluff on the edge of the lake with excellent views, the small camp with its thatched huts is a firm favourite with anglers and birdwatchers alike who enjoy the old world simplicity and peacefulness of the camp's lake side setting. It is the ideal base for bird watching with pink flamingoes, pelicans and magnificient fish eagles. Crocodiles and hippos abound.
Charters Creek offers basic conference facilities that can accommodate 30 delegates in surrounds that relax the spirit and sharpen the mind.
The gates are open from sunrise to sunset for daily visitors and attractions include jet boat tours to the hippo colonies, walks and birdwatching. There is also a swimming pool and table tennis for the residents.
Isikhova and uMkhumbe trails
The 7km Isikhova trail through the forest augments the tranquil nature of the camp that for which it is famous and you can get a close up look at the powderpuff tree. There is also the hour long Umkhumbe trail.
NB: For safety reasons due to the presence of elephants on the western shores of Lake St Lucia the self guided trails are no longer available to the public.
Contact details
iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority
The Dredger Harbour
Private Bag X05
St Lucia 3936
Tel: +27 35 590 1633
Fax: +27 35 590 1602
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.iSimangaliso.com
24 Hour emergency hotline: +27 82 797 7944