Coastal Areas
Maphelana
Maphelana is the southernmost camp in the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park. A popular destination for ski boaters and surf anglers , it lies on the south bank of the Mfolozi River, at the point where it enters the Indian Ocean.
The rocky inter-tidal areas offer excellent musselling and Cray fishing.
More than 200 bird species have been recorded here.
The bay provides a sheltered launch site for deep sea fishing boats. Shore fishing and spear fishing are also popular. People harvest shellfish under permit on the rocks.
There are two self-guided trails, one along the estuary bank and the other to the top of the dune for a breathtaking view of the ocean and the mouth of the river.
Accommodation
Log Cabins - 5 bed
- Fully equipped
- 2 bedrooms, a bathroom with shower
- Fully equipped kitchenette and a dinette/lounge
- Self catering
Facilities
- There is no restaurant at Maphelana
- Shop offers a limited range of curios and supplies
- No facilities for people with disabilities
Extra Information
- Special Precautions:
- Maphelana is in a malaria area and special precautions are necessary
- The bay is wonderful for swimming, although, please note that there are NO shark nets
- It is also recommended that visitors only swim and snorkel at low tide
- Tap water is not potable. It must be boiled before it is fit to drink
- There are rain water tanks which contain potable water
- Visitors who want an accessible supply of water in their log cabin - bring a 25L container
- The nearest town which has a full range of services is Kwambonambi which is 50 kms away
- Pets are not permitted into the reserve
Gate Times
| Gate Times | Summer (Oct-Mar) |
Winter (Apr-Sep ) |
| Gates Open | 06:00 | 06:00 |
| Gates Close | 19:00 | 18:00 |
Office Hours
The office is open from 08h00 to 12h30 and from 14h00 to 16h30
Check in / out
Check Out Time: 10h00
Check In Time: 14h00
