The eco-tourism mecca of South Africa's Zulu Kingdom

The Elephant Coast is a 220 km stretch of incredible pristine coastline that contains some of the most ecologically abundant and precious natural spaces in the world. Located in the northern section of KwaZulu-Natal along the Indian Ocean, the Elephant Coast is a sustainable traveller’s paradise. Home to the UNESCO World Heritage site, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and South Africa’s oldest proclaimed game reserve, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, the Elephant Coast boasts a huge diversity of wildlife and incredible natural beauty. Travellers can go on safaris to see the Big 5, visit various birding spots, experience breathtaking hikes, scuba dive in crystal clear waters, or stroll along secluded beaches admiring the massive forested sand dunes.

Highlights

1
Go scuba diving in the crystal clear waters of Sodwana Bay.
2
Check out the pristine Mabibi Beach, situated in the World Heritage site, iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
3
Hike the magnificent Kosi Bay Trail or the picturesque Mziki Trail near St Lucia.
4
Go on evening turtle tracking expeditions at Thonga Beach Lodge from November to February.
5
Experience the local Tsonga culture and sample marula beer at the Marula Festival in February.
6
Visit Border Cave and learn about the history of humankind.

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Best time to go to Elephant Coast

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The subtropical climate of the Elephant Coast offers visitors year-round warmth thanks to the Indian Ocean and closeness to Mozambique. The region has hot, wet summers and cooler, dry winters. With most of the rainfall occurring during the summer months, the best time to visit varies depending on what activities travellers would like to do. November and January are the best for tracking turtles, while whale watching is great between June and November. For the best beach weather, visit between April and September.

Featured Elephant Coast stays

Hluhluwe Bush Camp

Off-grid glamping tents overlooking iSimangaliso Wetland Park’s False Bay
From$49 /ppn
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