iSIMANGALISO IS READY TO WELCOME VISITORS THIS FESTIVE SEASON
12 December 2024
The iSimangaliso Wetland Park is one of the most outstanding natural wetlands and coastal sites of Africa. This year, the Park marks the 25th years since itsinscription as South Africa’s firstWorld Heritage Site by UNESCO in December1999, which makes this month its birthday month The Park occupies an area of approximately 1314 539 ha, stretching from Maphelane right up to Kosi Bay in the Mozambique border, comprising 15 ecosystems and several notable and diverse landscapes. The name “iSimangaliso” means miracle and wonder, which aptly describes this unique place.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park is one of the highlights for many visitors to the country who are seeking to immense in natures wonderous bounty, as it is known for its diverse environment including marine, coastal, wetland, estuarine and terrestrial habitats. Visitors from across the globe can explore a variety of experiences both terrestrial and marine. Last year alone, more than 172 600 paying visitors entered iSimangaliso gates as tourist, this figure excludes the non-paying entries to the Park such as the local communities. The iSimangaliso Wetland Parkhas successfully maintained the Park’s sanctuary status for 25 years. This serves as a testament to the potent melody of conservation, community harmony, and sustainable tourism. Its influence spreads far beyond its verdant borders, touching the lives of locals and tourists alike.
The festive season is here!Families, friends, and companions take this time to head to their destination of choice for long awaited year-end revival.The internationally acclaimed iSimangaliso turtle tours have also commenced, taking place annually during turtle season fromNovember to March, which perfectly coincide with the festive season.
Visitors of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park have so much to choose from in this miraculous natural playground. Beach spots are ready to welcome thousands of visitorsof bathers and snorkelers alike. iSimangaliso Wetland Park is, a living testament to earth’s resplendent diversity of life, unfolds like a bewitching tapestry of nature’s finest achievements.Scuba diving is available to the public at the world-renowned Sodwana Bay section of the park, as well as further north in the Coastal Forest Reserve section.If you are not sure what to bring or pack you can bringcomfortable walking shoes,sunscreen, sunshades, binoculars, a camera, and jacket just in case it gets cooler in the evenings and not forgetting a mosquito repellent. Swim wear and sun hat is a must!
All that one needs to enjoy a fantastic spectacle of undersea life is a snorkel and mask, and a day trip to one of many small bays along the coast like Cape Vidal or Perries Rocks, Lala Nek, Kosi Bay mouth, Mabibi, Black Rock.iSimangaliso is filled with breathtaking landscapes, thrilling views where pristine beaches meet lush wetlands. Venture into the comfort and tranquillity of the natural spaces at leisure. Make time to experience this spectacular and spiritual ritual. iSimangaliso is ready to dazzle you with its superlative natural beauty and diverse offering.