- KwaZulu-Natal
- iSimangaliso Wetland Park
- Lake Sibaya region
Lake Sibaya region, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal
Lake Sibaya, tucked away between forested coastal dunes, is South Africa’s largest fresh-water lake and is home to KwaZulu-Natal’s second largest population of crocodiles and hippos.
For the journey through Mbazwana State Forest and over the grassland tracks to Sibaya an off-road vehicle is recommended, but not essential.
The cry of the fish eagle and grunts of the hippo enhances the beauty and wilderness of the area.
This landlocked lake, that once flowed into the ocean, now has just a narrow ridge of forested dunes separating it from the sea. Raggedly shaped and covering an area of 18 km with a myriad of coves and channels, it is home to flocks of flamingo and over 250 other bird species which can be viewed either from boats or alongside walking trails. The lakeshore is also home to the only known population of a rare climbing orchid.
Accommodation
Baya Camp is a rustic but atmospheric camp with comfortable thatched cabins nestling under splayed Umdoni trees. There is a wooden boardwalk that links the cabins to a sundeck and the communal eating lodge with a view right across the still waters to the reed-covered banks and powdery white sand.
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