Coastal Areas
Umlalazi
Umlalazi Nature Reserve has the rare distinction of offering two unique and unusual attractions: regular sightings of the rare palm-nut vulture, and the fascinating raffia palm monument. The raffia palm is the largest palm in the world.
This lovely coastal reserve is conveniently situated 1 km from Mtunzini on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. Umlalazi was established as a protected area in 1948 and is 1 028 hectares in extent. Home of the palmnut vulture, which is one of the rarest birds of prey in South Africa.
Good fishing is enjoyed in the lagoon. Vast stretches of uncrowded beaches are outstanding for swimming, surfing, windsurfing and angling as well as for long beach walks.
Three trails have been laid out in the reserve. There is an easy walk through one of the best examples of mangrove swamps in South Africa, where several species of mangrove can be found. A second walk leads through the dune forest where bushpig, bushbuck and red, grey and blue duiker may occasionally be seen. A third trail leads through dune forest and mangrove swamp along the edge of the river. Wildflowers and a great variety of bird life can be seen. Visitors may also come across colonies of fiddler crabs and fascinating mud-skippers.
Accommodation
Log cabin - 5 bed
- 2 bedrooms
- Combined lounge dining room
- Kitchenette
- Bathroom with shower or bath
- Cots and high-chairs are available for children
- Cabins are fully equipped
- Verandas and barbeque facilities
- The cabins are serviced daily
- Self Catering
Facilities
- Recreational facilities include trampolines, a tennis wall, swings and other playground equipment
- Water-skiing, boating and canoeing can be enjoyed on the Umlalazi River and the surf and lagoon fishing is excellent
- Swimming pool for the enjoyment of guests
- Curio shopoffering local crafts and curios, books, beer, wine, cool drinks, light snacks and ice creams
No handicap facilities
Extra Information
- The nearest town which has a full range of services is Mtunzini, 1 km away
- Pets are not permitted into the reserve
- A trail map and a complete bird list is available from the office
Gate Times
| Gate Times | Summer (Oct-Mar) |
Winter (Apr-Sep ) |
| Gates Open | 05:00 | 05:00 |
| Gates Close | 22:00 | 22:00 |
Office Hours
The office is open from 8h00 to 16h30 seven days a week
Check in / out
Check Out Time: 10h00
Check In Time: 14h00
