Abounding with treasures both old and new
Place of ancient secrets
Sixty million years ago, this strip of land on the western side of Lake St Lucia was covered by the sea. Fascinating marine fossils of both animals and corals are still found scattered throughout the area.
A keen eye picks out the most beautiful details
Discover the thrill of the Small Five…
False Bay is the widest section of Lake St Lucia, hemmed in by two peninsulas – the Nibela to the north and the Nhlozi to the south. It is a unique area that offers visitors the opportunity to experience the joy of discovering the smaller species. The area is comprised of a variety of habitats including woodland, thornveld, open savannah, shoreline, and one of the richest remaining pockets of sand forest left in Southern Africa. These habitats provide excellent bird-watching and are home to an abundance of smaller game species. Whether on foot or horseback, the Park is sure to reveal the little wonders of nature like antelope and primates, birds and butterflies.
False Bay delights the bird and butterfly enthusiasts
…And a few scary inhabitants, too
But don’t be fooled by the Park’s understated, benign charm. There are Nile crocodiles in the lake, as well as hippo – Africa’s most lethal animal. They wander the area by night, coming out of the water to graze. The presence of these animals makes swimming hazardous, but boating and fishing are possible.
Birds and butterflies
This is an excellent place to view many species of birds and butterflies. Birders regard iSImangaliso as one of the finest places to spot African broadbills, and colourful species such as the gold-banded forester and forest queen are found in the area. Visitors can also see one of the country’s few remaining pink-backed Pelican colonies here.
Moving on foot is the way to spot creatures great and small
Take a walk on the wild side
Two self-guided walking trails have been established to allow visitors to enjoy the full benefit of the area. The Dukandlovu and the Mphophomeni trails enable visitors to explore the sand forests, thornveld and open savannah on foot. Trails average 8km each, meandering through forest and along the Lake shoreline.
Accommodation in the Park
False Bay – KZN Wildlife
Relax on the shores of False Bay. This small area bounding the False Bay of the lake is one of the oldest areas geologically.
Website | Email | 033 845 1000
Dukandlovu Rustic Camp
Get back to basics in False Bay’s rich woodland environment.
Website | Email | 033 845 1000
Operators in the Area
Thonga Beach Lodge
Luxury lodge set in a secluded dune forest with stunning coastal views. Situated only metres from the beach and a 25 minute drive from Lake Sibaya, Thonga Beach Lodge is nestled into beautiful coastal dune forest above secluded Mabibi Bay with sweeping views of the beach below. The thatched bush suites provide guest privacy and were carefully constructed to ensure minimal impact on the environment.
Activities OfferedGuided Walks
Kayaking
Scuba Diving
Turtle Tours
Rocktail Camp
Rocktail Bay is considered one of the premier dive sites in South Africa, with pristine coral reefs that only Rocktail Beach Camp guests have access to. There is a fully accredited dive centre and diving operation, Mokarran Dive Charters, which offers training and excursions. With the beach a brisk 20-minute walk from the camp, there are plenty of seaside adventures to be experienced. Rocktail is set a bit inland, in the lush Coastal Forest covering the ancient coastal dunes.
Activities OfferedScuba Diving
Turtle Tours
