Sodwana Bay National Park, iSimangaliso Wetland Park
Sodwana Bay National Park may be one of the smallest reserves in iSimangaliso Wetland Park but it is the gateway to its largest playground, Africa’s southernmost coral reef. Fish, snorkel and dive. More than 1200 species of fish are found here! Watch sea turtles – leatherback and loggerhead - nest and hatch. Watch humpback whales from shore. Hike a self-guided birding trail. Explore coastal forests and dunes. Search for ancient shell middens. Spot small mammals - bush babies, genets duikers and striped mongoose. Or simply relax; there are miles of pristine beach from which to choose.
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Getting There
Sodwana Bay National Park is situated in northern KwaZulu Natal and is part of iSimangaliso Wetland Park. The park is located 80 km (50 miles) from Hluhluwe, 370 km (230 miles) from Durban and more than 650 km (400 miles) from Johannesburg. The nearest airport is in Richards Bay a 2.5-hour drive. There is no public transport to Sodwana Bay. Some, but not all, park lodges offer an airport transport service for an additional fee. Take the N2 to the Hluhluwe exit. Follow the signs for Mbazwane and then Sodwana Bay. The road is paved the entire way. A 4x4 is required to access some surrounding areas.
Getting Around
Sodwana Bay is the top dive site in South Africa. Sightings include reef fish, pelagics, invertebrates and sharks. The reef boasts a great diversity of coral. Five licensed operators offer day and night dives. Snorkeling in tidal pools is easy; snorkeling off a dive boat can be quite difficult. The self-guided birding trail is 5 km (3 miles).
When to Travel
While there is no right or wrong time of year to visit Sodwana Bay there are a few things to consider when traveling with kids. Summers are hot and humid. Winters are mild and dry. Rain is possible from December to February. The water is warm in summer (24ºC or 75°F) and cool in winter (19ºC or 66°F). Scuba diving is best from April to September. Sea turtles breed here from November to March. Whale watching is best from June to November. Whale sharks are sighted from November to April. The high season - December, January, April and July - coincides with South African school holidays.
Travel Health & Child Safety
Sodwana Bay National Park is a malaria risk area. Precaution is warranted. Other travel health and safety concerns include overexposure to the sun and dive safety. Apply sunscreen to all exposed areas, including your child's nose, ears, and toes, before you set out for the beach and repeat applications throughout the day. Limit the number of hours they play under the sun, especially in the first few days.
Hours & Seasons
Park gates are open 24 hours a day. The camp office is 8:00 - 16:30 Monday to Thursday and 7:00 -16:30 Friday to Sunday.
Admission & Fees
A park permit fee is charged to all visitors. Children under 3 years of age are free of charge. A separate fee is charged for accommodation, game drives and walking safaris. A reduced rate is available for seniors and children aged 12 and under.
Contact Details
For additional information on Sodwana Bay National Park or iSimangaliso Wetland Park dial +27 (0)33 845 1002 or send an email to info@kznwildlife.com. For reservations dial +27 (0)33 845 1000 or send an email to webmail@kznwildlife.com.
Things to Keep in Mind
There are no disabled facilities at Sodwana Bay. Roadside stalls sell more than just fresh fruit and vegetables; they are a great place to purchase local crafts.
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