Nibela Lake Lodge

Nestled within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nibela Lake Lodge offers a unique and tranquil retreat. The lodge features eleven thatched, timber chalets, each situated beneath a magnificent canopy of trees and connected by wooden walkways raised high above the cool forest floor. These private and secluded chalets provide guests with a serene escape, blending seamlessly into the forest surroundings and offering stunning views of Lake St Lucia.

​

Each chalet is air-conditioned and equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy the luxury of private balconies, perfect for soaking in the natural beauty and listening to the sounds of the forest. The main lodge boasts an outdoor viewing deck, an ideal spot for sundowners before dinner at the Lakeview Restaurant, which serves continental breakfasts, three-course dinners, and comfort food like pizzas and crispy chips. Additional amenities include two swimming pools, a kids’ play area, a tented spa overlooking the lake, and various activities such as quad biking, guided walks, night drives, and boat cruises.

​

Nibela Lake Lodge is a birdwatcher’s paradise, located in one of the highest diversity areas for birds in South Africa. The surrounding habitats, including rich sand forests, Acacia veld, and lake shores, support well over 400 species of birds, including numerous rare and endemic species. Guided bird walks in the surrounding forest, wetlands, and savannah areas are available, led by experienced and knowledgeable bird guides who can help you identify the birds and sounds you encounter.

​

The lodge’s property itself is home to a variety of special bird species. Notable sightings include the Pink-throated Twinspots, Narina Trogon, Green Malkoha, Eastern Nicator, Gorgeous Bush Shrike, Rudd’s Apalis, and African Broadbill. Additionally, nine sunbird species have been recorded in the area, including the rare and endemic Neergard’s Sunbird. Other highlights include the African Wood Owl, Green Twinspot, Bearded-scrub Robin, Emerald Cuckoo, Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, Crowned Hornbill, and Crested Guineafowl.

​

A trip to the nearby floodplains is a must for any nature enthusiast. These floodplains are one of the best places in the world to see the highly sought-after Rosy-throated Longclaw. Large flocks of flamingos, many waders, and rarities such as the Long-toed Lapwing, Caspian Plover, and Rufous-bellied Heron can also be spotted here. The forest and bush around the floodplains are home to special terrestrial birds like the Southern-banded Snake Eagle, Croaking Cisticola, Lemon-breasted Canary, and Grey Waxbill.