Maphelane
The southern beach of the iSimangaliso lake system at the Mfolozi mouth — wild, empty, and the highest forested dunes in the country.
Trip Role
Ideal stay
Best for
Our take
A raw, powerful landscape that showcases the best of the iSimangaliso coast.
A raw, powerful landscape that showcases the best of the iSimangaliso coast.
- Trip Role
- Only If Nearby
- Ideal Stay
- 1-2 days
- Time Needed
- Full day
- Best For
- Nature photography and dune hiking
- Go If
- You want a truly wild, off-the-beaten-path coastal experience.
Why it's worth your time
The southern gateway to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, located at the Mfolozi River mouth. It is a wild, remote area known for having the highest forested dunes in South Africa.
What we love
The sheer height and scale of the forested dunes.
What to know
The area is remote; ensure you have sufficient supplies and fuel.
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Cape Vidal
A wild beach inside iSimangaliso where you can snorkel, whale-watch from the dunes, and spot game on the drive in.
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