Crocodiles at iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Beware of crocodiles - iSimangaliso Wetland Park

© South African Tourism

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iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a World Heritage Site, is renowned for its crocodiles, which can be seen on guided boat rides into the wetland. These trips are perfect for crocodile viewing at iSimangaliso and also provide an excellent opportunity to see the population of hippos that share this habitat with the reptiles.

Formerly known as the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, it was renamed in 2007 to better reflect its unique African identity. It is the only place in the world where hippos, crocodiles and sharks share the same waters and is it regarded as the best spot for crocodile viewing in South Africa.

You will see many of these ancient reptiles as you cruise the waters of the park. Some visitors will be lucky enough to see a natural drama unfold as an unsuspecting impala drinks just metres away from where a crocodile rests under a mangrove, intent on finding its next meal.

Encounters with St Lucia crocodiles can also be arranged at the Crocodile Park, a few minutes outside the village of St. Lucia on the road to Cape Vidal. This is an ideal family destination and not only features the indigenous Nile crocodile, but also has a breeding programme for two endangered African crocodile species: the dwarf crocodile and the long snout crocodile.

Informative displays provide details about the breeding, feeding, physical structure and distribution of these prehistoric creatures. A visit to the Crocodile Park is just another way to go crocodile viewing at iSimangaliso.

Whether you visit the wetland to see crocodiles in their natural environment or the Crocodile Park, for a closer encounter with these fascinating reptiles, you are sure to leave the area with a better understanding of the role that crocodiles play in this unique and fascinating eco-system.