Blog - Pelican Collection

Hluhluwe - iMfolozi Game Park

2026-02-24T00:00:00+02:00

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Park (HiP):

Proclaimed as a protected area in 1895 it has become a world-renowned nature reserve in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Famous for being the oldest game reserve in Africa and a global leader in conservation, this is where the last vestiges of the Southern white & black rhino were brought back from the brink of extinction.

The Park extends to over 96,000-hectares of which 24,000-hectares is a declared Wilderness area with access restricted to foot trails only.

In the south the iMfolozi Park, including the wilderness area, is 72,000 hectares, with Hluhluwe at 24,000 hectares, making up the balance in the North.

How did the (HIP) Get Its Name:

Hluhluwe is a Zulu Name which comes from the (umhluhluwe vine or thorny rope plant) which grows in the region.

iMfolozi, also a Zulu name, is named after the Black Umfolozi (Mfolozi eMnyama) and the White Umfolozi (Mfolozi eMhlope) which meet within the iMfolozi side of the park.

Key Attractions & Activities

Wildlife Viewing:

The park is a top destination for viewing the “African Magnificent Eight” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, black and white rhino – the Big 5, as well as cheetah, African wild dog, and Hyena). It boasts diverse fauna & flora, located in the beautiful rolling hills of Zululand.

Game Drives:

Visitors can enjoy open game viewer safaris conducted by concession holders and can be booked via your Pelican Collection accommodation facility. (www.pelicancollectionstlucia.co.za)

All Guided tours are undertaken by registered guides. One may also enjoy self-guided game drives in their own vehicles.

Wilderness Trials and Walks:
For a more immersive bush experience, the iMfolozi section offers world-renowned guided walking wilderness trails – either spending nights along the trail or day guided foot trails for those who have less time.

Picnic Sites & Hides:

The park features numerous well-maintained picnic sites and hides where visitors can get out of their vehicles and observe animals gathering at waterholes.

Location:

The park is approximately 3 hours’ drive north of King Shaka International Airport, Durban.

The nearest towns are Mtubatuba, 30km from the Nyalazi Gate, and St Lucia which is 54km from the Gate. Nyalazi Gate allows direct access to both the North and South sides of the park.

We welcome you to our amazing and incredibly diverse part of the world which we would love to share with you, your family & friends.

Always a warm Zululand greeting, accompanied by unmatched hospitality.

A lifetime of memories to be made.

Gavin Udal

All photographs by Gavin Udal

St Lucia, KwaZulu-Natal Weather Guide: What to Expect All Year Round

2026-01-14T00:00:00+02:00

Summer Climate (December – February)

Summers in St Lucia are hot and wet, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms that cool the air and refresh the landscape.

Average temperatures: 25°C – 35°C

Conditions: High humidity, lush greenery, dramatic storms

Best for: Wildlife viewing, summer holidays, photography, fishing

Winter Climate (June – August)

Winters are dry and pleasantly warm, with cooler evenings and low rainfall.

Average temperatures: 15°C – 28°C

Conditions: Clear skies, low humidity, comfortable days

Best for: Safaris, hiking, beach walks, fishing

With approximately 325 sunny days per year, St Lucia remains warm year-round, making it one of South Africa’s most reliable weather destinations.

Pelican Collection - Trusted stays in the greater St Lucia area, where quality, comfort and adventure meet.

2025-11-15T00:00:00+02:00

When you visit the greater St Lucia area in KwaZulu-Natal, you’re stepping into one of South Africa’s most unforgettable destinations. This small town lies between the warm Indian Ocean and the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its incredible biodiversity. Where else in the world can you see hippos and warthogs strolling through the streets as you head out for dinner? Add to that, golden sunsets over the estuary and the call of fish eagles, and you’ll quickly see why St Lucia is a must-visit destination.

The Pelican Collection is an association of St Lucia and Mtubatuba accommodation establishments that meet strict criteria of high guest ratings and exceptional hospitality standards. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast or a charming guesthouse, each member of the Pelican Collection ensures comfort, personal service, and a stay that feels truly local.

Why Choose the Pelican Collection?

🌿 Trusted Accommodation in the greater St Lucia area – All our establishments have excellent reputations and consistent high reviews.
🌿 Local Expertise – Our hosts know St Lucia and surrounds best and will help you plan safaris, fishing trips, and cultural tours.
🌿 Quality & Comfort – Each property offers its own character, but all share the same commitment to high standards.

Things to Do in St Lucia and surrounding areas:

St Lucia offers a wide variety of activities for every traveller:

🦛 Wildlife & Safari Tours – Experience unforgettable adventures, from hippo and crocodile boat cruises on the estuary to guided safaris through the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its incredibly diverse ecosystem and sightings of the Big 4 (excluding lion). For a full Big 5 experience, venture into the nearby Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, Africa’s oldest proclaimed game reserve, and immerse yourself in the wild heart of Zululand.

🐋 Ocean Adventures – Snorkelling, deep sea fishing, seasonal whale watching, turtle nesting tours,

🎣 Fishing in St Lucia – From deep sea fishing charters to rock and surf fishing, St Lucia is a fishing paradise.

🪘 Cultural Tours in St Lucia – Visit Zulu villages, experience traditional storytelling, and learn about the living culture of Zululand.

Book Your Stay Today

Your holiday deserves more than just a bed — it deserves an experience. By booking with the Pelican Collection, you’re choosing quality-assured bed and breakfast accommodation, trusted hospitality, and the chance to explore this extraordinary town and surroundings with the guidance of locals who know it best.

Discover the wildlife, culture, and adventure of the greater St Lucia, South Africa — and let the Pelican Collection be your gateway to it all.

Imbabala Hiking Trail : a scenic escape near St Lucia Kzn

2025-09-22T00:00:00+02:00

If you are looking for a peaceful yet rewarding hike, the Imbabala hiking trail near St Lucia Kzn is a perfect choice. Staring at Beach Road, this 4 - 5km route meanders through open bushland, offering beautiful vistas and a chance to spot local wildlife. Situated on the edge of the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park - South Africa's first Unesco world heritage site. The Imbabala trail is a moderate and accessible hike that takes you through wide, open spaces with expansive blue skies overhead. The path is easy to follow, making it a great option for hikers of all levels. As you stroll along, you'll be enveloped by the rich sounds and slights of the bush, with plenty of opportunities to pause and appreciate the surroundings.

Keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife that calls this area home. The trail is often frequented by zebra, impalas and warthogs. Birdwatchers will also be in for a treat, as the area is a haven for local and migratory bird species. As you walk, you'll pass small ponds adorned with beautiful water lilies, where the slight of Jacanas gracefully skipping across the water adds a touch of magic to the landscape. Once you've completed the trail, a short walk into St Lucia offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Enjoy a refreshing drink and a light snack at one of the local cafes or restaurants - rewarding yourself after a peaceful escape into nature.