Cape Vidal, on iSimangaliso’s Eastern Shores, is a rare destination where the warm Indian Ocean meets untamed African wilderness. Just a short drive from St Lucia, this coastal retreat offers the best of both worlds — a marine paradise alongside big game country. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply a place to unwind in unspoiled nature, Cape Vidal promises unforgettable encounters on land and at sea.
The waters off Cape Vidal are alive with extraordinary marine life. From the shoreline or out at sea, you may encounter, humpback whales on their annual migration (June–November), playful dolphins riding the surf, rare turtles nesting on sandy beaches (November–March) and whale sharks, marlin, and sailfish offshore.
Cape Vidal: Where Ocean Meets Wilderness At Cape Vidal in iSimangaliso Wetland Park, the Indian Ocean and African bush come together in a rare coastal safari. Just minutes from St Lucia, you can spot elephants, rhinos, and hippos by day, then watch whales, dolphins, and turtles along golden beaches. With cabins, bush lodges, and forested campsites, Cape Vidal is the perfect retreat for adventure, wildlife, and unspoiled beauty.
The Eastern Shores of iSimangaliso offers one of the rarest safari experiences on earth, where bush, lake, and ocean meet. In a single day, you can watch elephants and rhinos roaming the coastal forests and savannah, see hippos and crocodiles in the shimmering waters of Lake St Lucia, and spot whales, dolphins, and nesting turtles along the warm Indian Ocean. From St Lucia to Cape Vidal, several loop roads wind through forests, grasslands, and freshwater pans, offering excellent bird-watching, game viewing, and scenic lookouts. The Eastern Shores host elephants, rhinos, buffalo, crocodiles, hippos, hyenas, leopards, and numerous smaller species, giving visitors a full safari experience.
The area’s rich habitats — swamp forest, freshwater pans, and open grasslands, attract sought-after avian species such as the pink-throated twinspot, rufous-bellied heron, Livingstone’s turaco, dwarf bittern, Rudd’s apalis, and southern banded snake eagle. Birders will find plenty to marvel at in this diverse ecosystem.
About 16 km south of Cape Vidal lies Mission Rocks, a dramatic stretch of rocky shoreline famous for its tidal rock pools, alive with small marine creatures at low tide. This wild and scenic spot is a favourite with photographers and nature lovers, offering sweeping coastal views and a raw sense of nature’s power. While the strong currents and rough seas make it unsafe for swimming, Mission Rocks is perfect for picnics, fishing, and whale watching from the cliffs. The area also holds a fascinating past — from ancient marine fossil beds to sites of cultural significance, making it as rich in history as it is in natural beauty. Its an excellent spot for picnics, fishing, and whale watching from the cliffs. Rich history — the site of ancient marine fossil beds and cultural significance.
Just south of Mission Rocks, at low tide, lies one of iSimangaliso’s most fascinating natural attractions — the Bats Cave. A short walk along the beach from the Mission Rocks picnic area (about 2 km). Accessible only at low tide — check tide tables before setting out. The cave is home to a large colony of Egyptian fruit bats, which can be spotted roosting inside. The walk also offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and whale spotting (in season, June–November).
All options are self-catering and fully equipped for independent stays. Daily servicing is offered for the log cabins. On-site amenities include a fuel station, a small shop for basics (firewood, snacks), and a curio shop (may be closed at times). Booking ahead is essential, especially during school holidays and peak seasons—trips are often booked up to a year in advance
Nestled within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Cape Vidal offers a range of self-catering accommodation options perfect for beach lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. 5-bed cabins (two bedrooms) – 18 units available. Each includes a bathroom with a shower, fully equipped kitchenette, lounge/dinette, and patio area. 8-bed cabins (three bedrooms) – 8 units. Similar layout: bathroom, kitchen, lounge/dinette, and outdoor space. Bhangazi Bush Lodge & Multi-Bed Cabins Bhangazi Bush Lodge: About 10 km from the main resort, comprises 4 self-contained units accommodating up to 8 guests. Includes kitchen and living area—more secluded and ideal for small groups. Three rustic group cabins accommodating 6 to 20 people, great for fishing groups or larger gatherings. About 50 campsites nestled in dune forests near the beach with basic facilities include electric plug points, hot/cold showers, and baths
Abridged business profile for iSimangaliso Website Bhangazi Horse Safaris iPhiva Camp, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, St. Lucia Estuary, 3936 KZN 0837927899 info@bhangazihorsesafaris.com www.bhangazihorsesafaris.com We have a challenge for you! Name a better way of enjoying the beauty of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park other than from horseback... Exactly..., there is none! Bhangazi Horse Safaris offers horse rides for both beginners and experienced riders. Bush Rides 1 hour or 2 hours Our bush rides take us into the Southern end of the Eastern Shores section of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. We ride alongside Zebra, Wildebeest, Warthog, Impala and other plains game. With the occasional sightings of the elusive Leopard, and possibly seeing Buffalo & Elephant in the distance. Beach and Bush Combo Rides 2.5 hours We take the horses down to the ocean and head either North towards First Rocks or South towards Lake St Lucia. During the whale season (June to Nov) we sometimes see Humpback Whales breaching out in the deeper water. The other half of the ride we take you over the savanna where you can ride between various animals such as Zebra, Wildebeest, warthogs etc. Unfortunately, we cannot offer the standalone 1-hour beach ride any longer. Those who wish to ride on the beach can book the beach & bush combo ride. Important considerations: Children must be over 6 years old for a bush ride. Children must be over 8 years old for a beach ride. Riders must be under 95 kg.
Take a tour of iSimangaliso's unspoiled beaches or explore its game reserve on horse back.
