Cape Vidal

iSimangaliso Wetland Park


If you ask anyone in the know what to see in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park they'll most likely suggest Cape Vidal. Some of the forested sand dunes here rise 150m high and the beaches are excellent for swimming. There's also decent wildlife viewing en route to the beach and you'll likely have the sightings of hippos, antelopes, buffaloes and crocs to yourself. It's 20km north of Mission Rocks (30km from St Lucia Estuary), taking in the land between Lake Bhangazi and the ocean.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby iSimangaliso Wetland Park attractions

1. Eastern Shores

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2. Bats Cave

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At low tide you can walk the 5km from Mission Rocks to this bat-filled cave.

3. Mission Rocks

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Mission Rocks is a rugged and rock-covered shoreline known for the rock pools that have a fabulous array of sea life on view during low tide. It's…

4. Mt Tabor Lookout

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Hikers should head to the Mt Tabor lookout, where three trail loops lead to spectacular views of Lake St Lucia and the Indian Ocean. It's about 4km before…

5. iSimangaliso Wetland Park

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iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a sprawling, diverse ecosystem comprised of hundreds of kilometres of beaches, lakes, wetlands and forests to explore. The…

6. Western Shores

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The region northwest of St Lucia Estuary is called the Western Shores, and comprises two stunning lakeside spots, known as Fani’s Island (closed to…