uMhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve Travel Guide: Top Sights in South

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uMhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Natural Scenery; South Africa; 5 Reviews

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Suggested Duration: 2 hours

Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve, established in 1980, is a 26-hectare coastal sanctuary situated at the northern edge of Umhlanga Rocks, KwaZulu-Natal. Nestled between the Indian Ocean and the Ohlanga River, the reserve encompasses a diverse range of habitats, including coastal dune forests, reed beds, and the Ohlanga River's lagoon and mouth. This ecological diversity supports a rich array of wildlife, with over 300 bird species recorded, such as vervet monkeys, bushbuck, and various small antelope species. Visitors can explore the reserve via a well-maintained boardwalk that meanders through the coastal forest, crossing the Ohlanga River and offering scenic views of the lagoon and beach. Interpretive signage along the trail highlights indigenous plant species, including the rare coastal red milkwood and a 500-year-old white stinkwood tree. The reserve also features a picnic area and the remains of a prehistoric shell midden near the lagoon. Access is available from Lagoon Drive, with the trail starting near the Breakers Hotel.

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Reviews of uMhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve

Nombuso Zikalala

5
Reviewed: 2025-05-20

It was absolutely wonderful. I wasn't expecting that. This place gave me a full experience of nature. It was so peaceful, lovely and the views were wonderful. Nothing beats the experience of seeing the beach at the end route.
Bennie Richardson

5
Reviewed: 2025-04-25

Great walk for everyone to enjoy. About an hour. You can doe n round route or come back on the beach. Not too challenging but some steep uphill and decent. Worth the walk
Vuyiseka Xungu

5
Reviewed: 2025-04-11

They have the most beautiful hiking trail ever that leads to the beach! Free entrance unless you want a guided hike than you pay R30pp, it has a proper guided path. Very nice for a team building or group trip. Not too steep or tiresome and not too long. The staff are very friendly and welcoming, it’s a beautiful place to relieve stress, exercise and relaxation.
Natasha Mkhize

3
Reviewed: 2025-04-04

The forest trails are lush and green, while the beach walk offers opportunity to help out with some beach cleaning ... The promenade strip is bustling with active people and well maintained - a pleasant way to spend time with friends or family.
Palesa Kotseli

4
Reviewed: 2024-12-20

Very clean & refreshing. I’d recommend for a first time hiker, there’s also a small tuck shop towards the end where you can buy snacks/drinks. You’ll see a variety of animals while hiking too.