Isimangaliso W Park Game Dve & Hippo Boat Cruise From Durban

Embarking on a captivating journey, the Isimangaliso W Park Game Drive and Hippo Boat Cruise from Durban promises an unparalleled immersion in South Africa’s stunning natural beauty. Visitors can expect a thrilling two-hour boat cruise, where they’ll encounter hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat, followed by an exhilarating game drive showcasing the diverse wildlife of the region, including elephants, leopards, and rhinos. With convenient pickup and drop-off services, this 10-hour adventure offers a seamless and unforgettable experience. Yet, the true wonder of this excursion lies in the unexpected, as travelers discover the breathtaking wonders that await them within the Isimangaliso Wetlands Park and St Lucia Estuary.

This experience made our list of the 22 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Durban.

Key Points

• A 10-hour tour that includes a boat cruise at St Lucia Estuary and a game drive in the UNESCO World Heritage site Isimangaliso Wetlands Park.
• Opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife, such as elephants, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and rhinos, as well as diverse bird species.
• Accessible for wheelchair users, with boats and game drive vehicles designed to accommodate their needs.
• Flexible booking and cancellation policy, with no upfront payment required and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Comprehensive experience at a price of $202.17 per person, providing significant value for the duration and included activities.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

This Isimangaliso W Park Game Drive & Hippo Boat Cruise from Durban offers an exciting day-long adventure.

The 10-hour tour costs $202.17 per person and is offered in English. Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without paying anything today.

The experience highlights include a hippo and croc boat cruise at St Lucia Estuary and a game drive in Isimangaliso Wetlands Park, where they may spot elephants, leopards, giraffes, rhinos, zebras, crocodiles, hippos, and various bird species.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from cruise ships, hotels, and the airport.

Experience Highlights

The experience highlights a thrilling hippo and crocodile boat cruise along the tranquil St Lucia Estuary, providing travelers with an up-close encounter with these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

The game drive in the Isimangaliso Wetlands Park promises sightings of a diverse array of wildlife, including:

1. African elephants
2. Leopards
3. Giraffes
4. Black and southern white rhinos

Guests can also expect to spot a variety of bird species, such as eagles, vultures, and the African broadbill, making this excursion a true feast for the senses.

With the opportunity to witness these magnificent animals in their natural environments, this tour offers an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Itinerary Details

Departing from Durban at 6:00 AM, the day’s adventure begins with a 2-hour boat cruise through the serene St Lucia Estuary.

During this tranquil journey, visitors may spot a variety of bird species, including eagles, vultures, and the elusive African broadbill. Gliding past the lush riverbanks, the boat offers an up-close encounter with the park’s iconic residents – crocodiles and hippopotamuses.

After the boat cruise, the tour transports guests to the renowned Isimangaliso Wetlands Park, where they’ll embark on an exhilarating game drive.

This immersive experience allows them to witness the diverse wildlife, including elephants, leopards, giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and an array of other fascinating creatures.

Included Experiences

Two thrilling experiences are included in this excursion.

First, guests will embark on a 2-hour boat cruise through the St Lucia Estuary, where they’ll have the opportunity to spot hippos, crocodiles, and a diverse array of bird species, including eagles, vultures, and African broadbills.

Next, visitors will enjoy a game drive through the Isimangaliso Wetlands Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During this safari, they may encounter an array of wildlife, such as:

• African elephants
• Leopards
• Giraffes
• Black and southern white rhinos
• Zebras
• And various other species

The trip also includes convenient pickup and drop-off services from cruise ships, hotels, and the airport.

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Accessibility Information

Wheelchair users can enjoy this excursion, as the activity is wheelchair accessible.

The boat cruise and game drive are both equipped to accommodate those with mobility challenges. Guests can easily board the boats, which have ample space and seating for wheelchairs.

The game drive vehicles are also wheelchair-friendly, providing a comfortable and accessible experience throughout the tour.

Participants can check availability and make reservations online, selecting their preferred start times. This ensures a seamless booking process that caters to the needs of all travelers.

With its inclusive design and accessible features, this Isimangaliso Wetlands adventure is an ideal choice for visitors of all abilities.

Booking Details

Seamless booking for this immersive excursion can be completed online. Interested travelers can check availability and select their preferred starting time.

To reserve a spot, they’ll need to provide the number of participants and the date. Payment isn’t required upfront – customers can book now and pay later.

The booking process offers several convenient features:

1. Flexible cancellation policy: free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
2. Multiple pickup and drop-off locations: cruise ships, hotels, and the airport.
3. Wheelchair accessibility for inclusive experiences.
4. Real-time availability updates to secure your preferred tour date.

Wildlife Sightings

The Isimangaliso Wetlands Park game drive offers visitors remarkable opportunities to spot a diverse array of wildlife. Herds of African elephants can be observed foraging through the lush vegetation, while graceful giraffes and zebras roam the open savannas. With a keen eye, guests may even catch a glimpse of the elusive leopard or the powerful black and southern white rhinos. The waterways teem with crocodiles and hippos, providing a thrilling boat cruise experience. On top of that, the park is home to an incredible variety of bird species, including majestic eagles, scavenging vultures, and the unique African broadbill.

Animal	Probability of Sighting
African Elephant	Very High
Leopard	Medium
Giraffe	High
Zebra	High
Rhino (Black & White)	Medium
Crocodile	High
Hippo	High
Birds (Eagles, Vultures, Broadbills)	Very High

Duration and Price

This 10-hour day trip from Durban provides an incredible value for the price. At just $202.17 per person, the tour offers:

• A 2-hour boat cruise through the St Lucia Estuary to view hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species

• A game drive through the renowned Isimangaliso Wetlands Park, where visitors can spot the "Big 5" and other wildlife

• Convenient pickup and drop-off service from cruise ships, hotels, and the airport

• The opportunity to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site and witness the stunning natural beauty of South Africa

Considering the comprehensive itinerary and transportation included, this excursion represents an excellent way to maximize your time and budget while visiting Durban.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Isimangaliso Wetlands Park?

The best time to visit Isimangaliso Wetlands Park is during the dry season from April to September. This is when wildlife sightings are most abundant, as animals congregate around limited water sources.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Game Drive?

Generally, there are no restrictions on photography during the game drive, though visitors are advised to be respectful and avoid disturbing the animals. Guests can freely take photos, but should follow the tour guide’s instructions.

Can Children Participate in the Boat Cruise and Game Drive?

Yes, children can participate in the boat cruise and game drive. The activity is suitable for all ages, and there are no age restrictions. Children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the tour.

Are There Any Optional Add-On Activities Available?

Yes, there are optional add-on activities. Visitors can choose to take a mangrove forest walking tour, visit a crocodile farm, or participate in a cultural experience highlighting the local Zulu heritage for an additional fee.

What Should I Bring to Ensure a Comfortable Experience?

To ensure a comfortable experience, it’s recommended to bring sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket, binoculars, and a camera. Plus, packing snacks and water can enhance the overall enjoyment of the activity.

The Sum Up

The Isimangaliso W Park Game Drive and Hippo Boat Cruise from Durban provides a unique opportunity to explore South Africa’s natural wonders. Guests can expect a thrilling 2-hour boat cruise, where they’ll get up close with hippos and crocodiles, followed by a game drive showcasing diverse wildlife. With convenient transportation and an immersive experience, this adventure immerses visitors in the stunning beauty of the Isimangaliso Wetlands Park and St Lucia Estuary.

You can check if your dates are available here: