South Africa : iSimangaliso National Park - St-Lucia

We decided to head to St-Lucia about four hours from Kosi Bay. We went through the only commercial street to find a place to sleep that night. We found the Budget Backpacker which was alright for one night. Afterwards we left to explore the Eastern Shore of the park (120 ZAR/pers). It is a 40km drive between the sea and the inner lake. We have seen a lot of animals and especially birds and hippos. The viewpoints seemed new and well arranged. We arrived at Cape Vinal after a good hour drive. The view is splendid and it's worth walking on the beach for the view and the small crabs that live on the shore.

The day after we decided to visit the close by Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve (120 ZAR/pers) which is said to be the little Kruger. We weren't disappointed by the magnificent landscapes and the variety of wild animals. The roads are better in the eastern part of the park. The western part is better suited for a 4WD. However, it is in the western part that we've seen our first lions which clearly made our day.

However, the best part of the day came when we arrived at Umlilo Lodge. This is our best stay for sure. Next to the fact that our room was perfect (with our first not shared bathroom with a bath) the decoration of the garden was splendid and the breakfast buffet was well furnished.

Cape Vidal - iSimangaliso

Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve