We recently had the pleasure of hosting guests at the Waterfront Guest House, who were visiting from Limpopo and en route to St Lucia. This encounter sparked fond recollections of my own experiences in St Lucia.
My late husband and I visited St Lucia multiple times to create lasting memories in that charming town and its surroundings. It was conveniently located just 431 km away from the Waterfront Guest House, making it a manageable 6-hour and 16-minute drive. We thoroughly enjoyed our getaways and found plenty of activities to keep us entertained in the area.
One of our top priorities was bird watching. St Lucia, situated on the edge of the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, is home to a wide variety of bird species. Exploring the forest and wooden walkways in the town allowed us to witness the joyful diversity of birds, including unique species found in the area. If you require assistance in spotting these species, we recommend booking a tour with one of the local bird operators. Even simply strolling through the town surprised us with sightings of several special species on our birdwatching checklist.
Renting a small 5 kW boat for just the two of us proved to be an unforgettable adventure. Our intention was simple: to cruise along the lake, observing the wildlife on the shores and in the water. However, as the late afternoon approached and the sun began to set, my husband alerted me, saying, “Keep an eye out for hippos! They’re making their way from one side of the lake to the other to begin their grazing.” Fear gripped me. Our tiny boat, with its limited power, pitted against the mighty hippos… My husband took charge of steering while I positioned myself at the front, guiding him away from the hippos as they traversed the water. Never, before had I felt such relief as when my feet touched the solid ground that day!
During my stay in St. Lucia, I had the opportunity to embark on an unforgettable adventure at the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, located just 53 km away. The park’s lush vegetation and breathtaking scenery provided a stark contrast to the familiar landscapes of the Kruger Park.
Much to my delight, the park is also home to the magnificent Big Five, including the endangered Rhino. It is imperative to set aside ample time for this incredible drive through the park. And for those who are up for an exhilarating challenge, I highly recommend venturing on a one-day hiking trail alongside these majestic creatures. This experience left an indelible mark on my memory, reminding me of the immense beauty and wonders of nature.
When you drive to Cape Vidal, a mere 32 km away from St Lucia, you’ll be delighted by the wide array of animals that await you. Be sure to allocate plenty of time for this journey. Cape Vidal offers fantastic opportunities for snorkelling and hiking, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. During one of our hiking adventures, we were fortunate enough to witness the breathtaking sunset over the lake and wake up to a stunning sunrise over the sea from the hut’s rooftop. It was an unexpected and delightful surprise.
Other fun activities in St Lucia:
During the dry season in St Lucia, visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of local events and activities that add a cultural touch to their experiences. Although the island may not be home to major international festivals, there are still plenty of opportunities to engage with the vibrant local community. Here are some noteworthy events and festivals to keep an eye out for:
- iSimangaliso Wetland Park Events: As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park frequently hosts a range of events and conservation activities during the dry season. These include guided nature walks, educational talks, and programs focused on raising eco-awareness.
- Whale Watching Season: From May to September, the eastern coastline of South Africa, including St Lucia, becomes a prime location for witnessing the remarkable humpback whale migration. While not an official festival, this natural spectacle is truly awe-inspiring and a definite highlight during this time.
- Local Markets and Cultural Events: St Lucia and its surrounding areas are known for their vibrant local markets, where one can discover a treasure trove of arts, crafts, and traditional cuisine. These markets offer a unique opportunity to delve into the local culture, interact with the friendly community, and gain insights into traditional practices.
- Outdoor Adventure and Wildlife Experiences: Although not considered conventional events or festivals, the dry season presents an opportune time for engaging in a range of outdoor activities like observing birds, embarking on wildlife safaris, and taking leisurely walks amidst nature. Numerous tour operators and lodges in the vicinity extend exclusive packages and organize activities tailored to this period. Travellers who choose to visit St Lucia during the dry season can fully immerse themselves in the exquisite natural landscapes and cultural abundance of the region, availing themselves of these indigenous events and activities to enrich their overall journey.
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of St Lucia’s dry season events and festivals, and create lasting memories filled with cultural immersion and natural wonders.
If you’re travelling from Gauteng, North West, Limpopo, or certain parts of Mpumalanga, don’t miss the chance to make a stopover at Waterfront Guest House in Carolina on your way to an unforgettable experience in St Lucia.
