Maphelana Camp - accommodation in St Lucia, Durban, South Africa

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In a sheltered bay on the south bank of the Mfolozi River, where the estuary enters the Indian Ocean, Maphelana Camp can be found. A tranquil get-away that is the southernmost camp in the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, a world heritage site and one of the most diverse regions in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal.

A canopy of magnificent trees over the dense coastal forest is home to a great diversity of wildlife in their natural habitat and bird enthusiasts can spot over 200 recorded bird species. Maphelana offers two self-guided trails along the bank of the estuary or along the top of the dunes where visitors can take advantage of breathtaking views of the ocean and the Mfolozi River mouth and see Hippos and Crocodiles lazing in the cool waters of the river. Leisurely walks along extensive stretches of unspoiled beach can be enjoyed by the whole family; stopping to splash in the waves of the warm Indian Ocean. During low tide mussels can be gathered off the rocks and guests can obtain permits to harvest shellfish off the rocks.

The shelter of the bay offers an excellent launching site for ski-boats and deep sea fishing boats and snorkeling for crayfish while investigating the rocky inter tidal areas is a great way to unwind. Spear fishing, surf angling and swimming are other popular activities enjoyed in the tranquil protection of the bay. Easy access to the beach is provided for a vehicle to launch a boat from a trailer.

Accommodation at Maphelana Camp:

Guests can retire at the end of the day to one of ten recently redecorated five bed log cabins. Food can be prepared in the fully equipped kitchenette or at the barbecue area provided for each cabin. The cabins also offer an open plan lounge/dinning area, two bedrooms and a bathroom with a shower.

In the shade of the forest not far from the beach are 45 tent and caravan camping sites accommodating up to six people each and modern ablution blocks with showers, flush toilets and dish washing facilities are provided for visitors to the camping sites.