Welcome to Umlalazi

This lovely coastal reserve is conveniently situated 1 km from the town of Mtunzini on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. Umlalazi was established as a protected area in 1948 and is 1 028 hectares in extent. Home of the Palmnut Vulture, one of the rarest birds of prey in South Africa, Umlalazi offers several forms of recreation and relaxation.

Boating

• Ski-boats are usually launched in the lagoon. At present the uMlalazi Ski-boat club are responsible for the inspection of the boats and as they are situated just outside the reserve, it is easy to reach from the boom gate.

• Power boat users are required to bring their skipper's licence before they can be permitted to launch their boats.

• Due to the shortage of water on occasion, we appeal to visitors not to wash any vessel in the reserve.

• All boats used in the reserve, must be registered with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife before being launched.

• Visitors participating in boating must have suitable life-jackets on board and must wear them at all times.

Water Activities

• Limited water-skiing and good fishing are enjoyed in the lagoon.

• Crocodiles and sharks may be present at times, so please exercise extreme caution whilst in the area.

• The beaches is popular for swimming, surfing, windsurfing, angling and other water sports, but please note that there are no shark nets or life guards present.

Other Facilities

• These include trampolines, a tennis wall, swings and other playground equipment. These facilities are within the Inkwazi campgrounds

Self-guided trails

• Three trails have been laid out in the reserve.

• There is an easy walk through one of the best examples of mangrove swamp forest in South Africa, where several different species of mangrove can be seen.

• The second trail leads through coastal dune forest where bushpig, bushbuck, red, grey and blue duiker may be seen.

• A third trail leads through coastal dune forest and mangrove swamp forest along the edge of the uMlalazi River.

• Wild flowers and a great variety of bird life can be seen.

• A trail map is available from the reception office.

• The entrance gates to the reserve open at 05:00 and close at 22:00 throughout the year.

• Fuel and oil can be obtained at the garage near the Mtunzini turn-off.

• Food supplies, beach equipment, medical facilities and supplies are available in Mtunzini village.

• Curios, souvenirs, charcoal, bait (sardines, shrimp and squid) may be purchased from the reception office during reception office hours.

• A washing machine and tumble drier are available.

• No pets are allowed in the reserve.

• Portable generators are not allowed.

• Visitors are advised to take precautions against malaria before, during and after a visit to the area.

• Limited DSTV channels are available in the cabins.