On the western shores of Lake St Lucia — Africa’s largest estuarine lake — grassland and ancient woodland shelter four of the Big Five: elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard. Game drives, lakeside picnic sites and the treetop uMthoma Aerial Boardwalk make this a safari in a uniquely coastal setting.
Game drives through this section reveal a wealth of wildlife, from large herds of buffalo grazing across open grasslands to the more elusive predators that prowl the woodlands. Birdlife is equally prolific, with over 400 species recorded, including the striking African fish eagle and the vibrant malachite kingfisher.
Charters Creek is especially known for its stunning vistas across Africa’s largest estuarine lake. Visitors can enjoy tranquil boat cruises and watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the water in shades of gold. Viewpoints offer sweeping perspectives of the shimmering lake, making it a photographer’s dream. Guests can explore the uMphathe game drive loop, stop at scenic lookouts such as Kweyezalukazi, or take in breathtaking views of Lake St Lucia from the uMthoma Aerial Boardwalk, which stretches above the canopy. Modern facilities, including ablution blocks, picnic sites, hides, and boardwalks, make exploring easy and comfortable for families and adventurers alike. Adding to the experience, a brand-new Charters Creek resort is in its final stages of completion. This exciting development will feature a restaurant, 10 modern two-bed chalets, 4 spacious four-bed chalets, and 12 campsites, giving visitors the option to stay overnight and fully immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of this jewel of iSimangaliso.
Whether it’s a family picnic beneath the shade of a giant uMthoma tree, a guided game drive through varied habitats, or simply pausing to absorb the calls of fish eagles overhead, the Western Shores and Charters Creek provide an authentic safari adventure in a uniquely coastal setting.
It is here that four of the Big Five - elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard, roam freely, complemented by giraffe, zebra, serval and an abundance of antelope species including wildebeest, tsessebe, waterbuck and reedbuck. Hippos wallow in the shallows of the lake, while crocodiles bask along the banks.
Drive the uMphathe loop through grassland and woodland where elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard roam free.
Set out from Charters Creek for tranquil cruises and golden sunsets over Lake St Lucia.
With over 400 species recorded, watch for African fish eagles and malachite kingfishers along the lake shore.