Maputaland Marine Protected Area

Summary

Located on South Africa’s northeastern coast, the Maputaland Marine Protected Area falls within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and comprises three protected areas, Lake Sibaya Nature Reserve, Kosi Bay Nature Reserve and Rocktail Bay. The reserve extends all the way from the northern Mozambican border to Sodwana Bay in the south. This gorgeous sub-tropical paradise includes immaculate forests and wetlands dotted with lakes and marshes as well as coral reefs and deserted golden-sand beaches and forest-clad coastal dunes. The local wildlife includes numerous bird species, reptiles and freshwater fish, making this an ideal destination for nature-loving travellers. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy excellent diving opportunities at one of the world’s top dive sites at Sodwana Bay with its magnificent reef complex.

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Rooms: 14Brand: Wilderness Safari, Elewana Collection, Natural SelectionType: LodgeSpecial Interests: Adventure, Beach Coastal, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Hiking, Indigenous Culture Art, Nature, WildlifeLocation: South Africa

The blue waters and endless golden sands of the Maputaland Marine Reserve provide the setting for adventures including underwater exploration and watching huge turtles nest on the beaches in summer.

Situated 20 minutes from the beach in a lush dune forest, Rocktail has 14 en-suite rooms (of which four are family rooms with shared bathroom and two bedrooms, and one is the honeymoon suite). The central dining and lounge areas feature a wraparound veranda, a large pool, sunny deck and curio shop. Activities include some of the best SCUBA diving and snorkelling in the world, and the kind of family activities that create perfect childhood memories.

INSIDER TIP: Discover fascinating underwater wonders on a ‘game drive’ at sea. Be on the lookout for bottlenose dolphins, mantra rays, turtles and whale sharks.

Rooms: 12Type: LodgeSpoken Languages: Afrikaans, English, ZuluSpecial Interests: Beach Coastal, Birding, Flora, History Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Sports, Star Gazing, Watersports, WildlifeLocation: South Africa

Thonga Beach Lodge is set on the pristine shores of the Maputuland Coast, KwaZulu-Natal. This 24 bed luxury lodge is the ideal place to discover one of Africa’s last unspoilt wilderness beaches. It is a magical place of coastal forests, grasslands, bush, shimmering lakes and exquisite sandy beaches. Its crystal clear, warm waters offer South Africa’s best snorkelling and excellent off-shore SCUBA diving and excellent birding opportunities. Guided birding, scorpion & spider walks & Turtle Tracking are offered in season. The 12 thatched bush suites offer either Ocean or Forest Views with Deluxe Ocean Views room sporting private plunge pools. The suites are positioned to afford maximum privacy & minimal environmental impact. Excellent cuisine is enjoyed al fresco on the dining deck or beach deck overlooking the sea. This is an ideal choice for honeymooners, families, SCUBA divers or anyone who wants to simply relax. A civilized distance from civilization.