iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority, as part of its commercialisation strategy, has advertised an 

exceptional Public-Private Partnership (PPP) investment opportunity for the redevelopment, enhancement and long-term operation of the Charters Creek Eco-Resort, situated on the pristine Western Shores of iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of global ecological significance.

Structured as a Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) concession, and fully aligned 

with National Treasury PPP guidelines, the 20-year concession presents investors with a rare opportunity  to participate in the creation of a high-value, sustainable nature-based tourism destination within one of  South Africa’s most iconic protected landscapes.

A Rare Eco-Tourism Asset in a World-Class Setting

Set on the tranquil banks of Lake St Lucia, Africa’s largest estuarine system, in the Western Shores 

section of the Park, Charters Creek offers a unique sense of seclusion, serenity and connection to nature.  The area is renowned for its exceptional birdlife, sweeping lake views and immersive wilderness  atmosphere, with regular sightings of elephant, buffalo, zebra and giraffe in the surrounding landscape.  The destination is ideally positioned for eco-tourism, experiential travel, conservation-led hospitality and low-impact luxury development, appealing to both domestic and international markets seeking authentic,  sustainable travel experiences.

Located just 7 km from the Nhlozi access gate near the N2, Charters Creek combines excellent 

accessibility with a feeling of remoteness, a rare and highly desirable combination in the nature-based 

tourism sector. The resort is already a favourite among birdwatchers, anglers, photographers and nature  enthusiasts, and offers strong potential for year-round tourism.

Existing Infrastructure with Significant Upside Potential

The current resort infrastructure provides a solid platform for redevelopment and expansion in line with conservation principles. Existing facilities include:

10 two-bed self-catering units

4 four-bed units

12 camping sites with private ablutions

A restaurant, swimming pool and day-visitor facilities

Recent upgrades and established services allow investors to build on an existing operational base, while  reimagining the property as a boutique eco-resort, experiential lodge or enhanced mixed-use tourism offering that aligns with the environmental and heritage values of iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

A Strategic Investment with Conservation Impact

This PPP opportunity offers more than financial returns. Successful bidders will partner with iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority in advancing sustainable tourism development, contributing to local economic growth, job creation, conservation outcomes and community upliftment, while operating within a globally recognised protected area.

The concession structure provides long-term operational certainty, enabling investors to develop a 

distinctive brand and market presence in a destination with enduring international appeal.

Bid Process and Key Dates

The Request for Proposals (RFP) was issued on 28 November 2025, with bid submissions closing on 

27 February 2026 at 12h00.

A bidders’ conference and due-diligence site visits are scheduled to take place during February 2026, 

offering prospective bidders an opportunity to engage directly with the site and project framework

Access to Documentation

Full bid documentation is available on:

iSimangaliso Wetland Park website (https://www.isimangaliso.com/tenders)

The National e-Tender Portal (www.etenders.gov.za)

All enquiries should be directed to ppp@isimangaliso.com.

-EndStatement issued by iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority

Media enquires:

Mr. Bheki Manzini

Call/WhatsApp: 060 533 2082

Email: bhekimanzini@isimangaliso.com