While South Africa as a whole is home to dozens of animal species and a great place to spot wildlife, there are specific places in the country worth visiting that offer you more than you bargained for. St Lucia is an absolute paradise for animal lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Situated along the Elephant Coast of Northern Kwa-Zulu Natal, Lake St Lucia is the largest estuary in Africa. With eight interlinking ecosystems, St Lucia (also known as Hippo Town) is also home to an astounding number of wildlife, bird and marine animal species.
Animals And Wildlife You Can Expect To See In St Lucia
Like many places in South Africa, you can find the Big Five (lion, elephant, rhinoceros, leopard and buffalo) at nearby game reserves. Outside of the game reserves, there’s no shortage of wildlife. You can use your vehicle or book a guided tour of the natural wonderland that is St Lucia. The region boasts the highest numbers of both hippos and crocodiles in South Africa. Get closer to nature by taking a horseback ride through the savannah, and you may spot both wildebeest and zebra. In and around the town itself, sightings of leopards, antelope, honey badgers and mongooses are not uncommon.
The coastline north of St Lucia extending to Sodwana Bay is the last significant breeding ground of the giant leatherback and loggerhead turtle. A walk or horse-ride along the stunning coastline offers you a glimpse of both humpback whales and dolphins. For the more adventurous, there is an option to book a tour along the mangrove swamps for a more up-close and personal experience with nature. Take note though that it is home to over 36 species of snakes! If all this wasn’t enough, St Lucia is also a bird lover’s paradise, with 526 species of birds in the region. It’s no wonder that the St Lucia iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For those who love being around nature and wildlife, it seems almost too good to be true, and it’s a must-visit destination for any self-respecting wildlife enthusiast.
There’s no better way to enjoy nature as well as luxurious accommodation than booking a stay at Serene Estate. Our guesthouse offers stunning views and easy access to game drives and other activities, so contact us today