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 intertidal areas offer excellent musselling and crayfishing.

The roads, which can be rough at times, can also be used for taking walks and enjoying the natural forest habitats under the canopy of enormous trees. 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. The bay is wonderful for swimming, although, please note that there are no shark nets !

Ten 5-bedded fully equiped log cabins are available. These have two or three bedrooms, a bathroom with shower, a fully equipped kitchenette and a dinette/lounge. For camping Maphelana has 45 camp and caravan sites (maximum six persons each), with modern ablution blocks available to visitors.

Rates Include:
Accommodation, community levy, emergency rescue levy and 14% VAT.

Rates Exclude:
Optional excursions

Gate Opening and Closing Times:  Summer ( October to March ) 06h00 to 19h00
Winter (April to September ) 06h00 to 18h00

Office Hours: The office is open from 08h00 to 12h30 and from 14h00 to 16h30

Check Out Time: 10h00   Check In Time: 14h00

Shop: The shop has a limited range of curios and supplies.

Special Precautions: Maphelana is in a malaria area and special precautions are necessary.

The nearest town which has a full range of services is Kwambonambi which is 50 kms away.

The following vehicle restrictions apply on the road:   Vehicles not exceeding 1.5 tonnes
Boats not exceeding 5,79 metres
Caravans of a single axle class only and only if towed by a four wheeled drive vehicle.

Pets are not permitted into the reserve.

Facilities for people with disabilities: None at the present time.