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Writer's pictureScott (Swazipond)
Jan 23, 20194 min read

Must Visit: St Lucia, South Africa

Kwazulu-Natal


The South African province of KwaZulu-Natal is a travelers paradise! I might be biased, but my beautiful neighbor that borders the South of eSwatini (Swaziland) never disappoints. Cruising south on the N2 highlights South Africa's incredible biodiversity. The rugged African bush slowly gives way to a lush subtropical coast line. It seems that every exit leads to a big game reserve, a lodge, a world heritage site or the warm Indian Ocean. When you visit KwaZulu-Natal don't pass up the small town of St Lucia.



Why St Lucia?


Few cities can claim to be fully surrounded by a World Heritage Site, but that is exactly where you will find St Lucia. The surrounding wetlands are protected, gorgeous and full of life! A river cruise with crocs and hippos or a perfect beach day at the Indian Ocean are both just minutes from the town center. Two impressive and historically important game reserves are nearby, Hluhluwe and iSimangaliso. Both are easy to locate and navigate in your own vehicle, but If you prefer an open-air safari, you can easily book a guide that will depart from a convenient location in town.


You don't even need to leave the town center to have a close encounter with the most famous local residents, hippos! I don't know where else you will see safari trucks in residential areas watching hippos feeding on someone's front lawn at night. Because of this, you must exercise caution while walking back to your accommodations after dinner and a glass of wine, but hey, that's Africa baby! From my experience, an evening hippo sighting in town from my car will never get old.


Hippos might be the main attraction, but they are not the only behemoths in town. An African adventure is not complete without spotting some Nile Crocodile and St Lucia has no shortage of them. The area is teaming with beautiful birds and wildlife ranging from adorable bush babies to the elusive leopard. Along with the surrounding flora and fauna, St Lucia has a nice variety of accommodations, craft shopping and restaurants!


Where should I stay?



Accommodation options are aplenty and most all of them pass the eye test. Beautiful lodges and B&Bs seem to outnumber residential homes. I personally enjoy staying at the Monzi Safaris Tented Camp. This is not your grandpa's campground, this is "Glamping" ladies and gentlemen, which means glamorous camping. The spacious tents each have a private en-suite bathroom with a nice shower. No sleeping bag on the ground here, you have a cushy bed waiting for you. Tents include a small kitchenette area with a mini fridge and sink. You will seriously forget that you're in a tent, well, at least until you need to zip your front door shut.


Although in the center of town, Monzi has built an oasis that creates the illusion of seclusion. The large tents are tucked into pockets of tropical plants and trees. The well planned landscaping creates the feeling of privacy. Mongoose and vervet monkeys visit often, along with gorgeous birds and fruit bats who dance in the sky at dusk.


Each tent has a personal front patio and table, making it easy to settle in and enjoy the atmosphere. Many of the tents overlook the modern pool and braai area (Braai is Afrikaans for grilled meet, BBQ). There is a second pool area with cabanas, a pool table, tv and a bar.


Monzi's camp is in a prime location, surrounded by a nice variety of shopping and restaurants. I know your priorities, don't panic, a lovely coffee shop is an easy two minute walk away. Do you like seafood, steaks, burgers or deserts? All are walking distance from camp. Traveling on a budget? Pick up some groceries nearby and prepare your own meals at Monzi using the clean self-catering kitchen and braai area.


Directly across the road from Monzi is a small open market where you will find beautiful African arts and crafts. Be friendly to the gogos (grandmas) selling and even try using a greeting in The Zulu language, they'll make you a nice deal. If you fill up your SD cards from the endless photo and video opportunities, don't panic, their is a nearby photography/tech store with all the equipment and accessories you need for capturing your adventures.


In conclusion


The South African coastal province of Kwazulu-Natal is a gem for travelers. The roads are easy to navigate and the views are stunning. If you are overwhelmed at the abundance of options for adventure, start with St Lucia. This small town is gorgeous and unique, providing relaxation and excitement. Stay at the beautiful Monzi Safaris Tented Camp and enjoy the charm of small town South Africa.


My suggestions for activities while staying in St Lucia:

  • Visit the Indian Ocean at Jabula Beach.

  • Drive through town after dark to spot hippos.

  • Take a boat tour of the estuary to see crocs and hippos.

  • Visit iSimangaliso Wetland Park (full day).

  • Drive to Cape Vidal.

  • Visit Hluhluwe Game Reserve (one or two full days).

  • Relax at the slow pace of town.

Keep traveling!


Siyabonga kakhulu (thank you very much),


Swazipond



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