The iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a natural wonder, and notably a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Formerly known as the St Lucia Wetland Park, this area is a glowing testament to nature, comprising eight inter-dependent ecosystems all bursting with life. This wet wonderland was declared South Africa's first World Heritage Site in December 1999, and encompasses beautiful landscapes, unique ecology and diverse wildlife (which include the famous Loggerhead and Leatherback sea turtles). In a speech marking the historic 2002 reintroduction of elephants to its eastern shores, Nelson Mandela said: “The wetland park must be the only place on the globe where the world’s oldest land mammal (the rhinoceros) and the world’s biggest land mammal (the elephant) share an ecosystem with the world’s oldest fish (the Coelacanth) and the world’s biggest marine mammal (the whale).”.
Flight
Day 7 — Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve → Cape Town
One of the best ways to really explore Cape Town is by car. The city has some of the most amazing roads, which wind around the mountains and offer stunning sea views.
Here are a few drives you can take to really soak up the splendour of Cape Town.
Chapman’s Peak: Chappies is the classic Cape Town scenic drive. In fact, it’s been used in dozens of car commercials, so look out for it next time you read a magazine or watch TV. The drive winds around the mountains above the Atlantic, with endless ocean views. There are places to stop and check the view too. Stard in Nordhoek and drive the M6 to Hout Bay with fish ‘n chips at Mariner’s Wharf.
