Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve (📍) is nestled along the stunning coastline of KwaZulu-Natal. It offers a great hiking trail with beautiful scenery. Here you can experience the serene escape into nature’s embrace. This coastal sanctuary beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike to explore its tranquil beauty.
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Umhlanga means ‘The place of reeds’ in Zulu and got its name from the abundance of reeds that grow at the mouth of the Ohlanga River Lagoon.
Wander through lush coastal forests, where trees provide shade and shelter. The air is also alive with the sounds of birdsongs and crashing waves. Follow meandering pathways that lead to the lagoon’s edge, where sparkling waters mingle with golden sands.
What you need to know
The Reserve is situated right at the end/start of Umhlanga’s promenade and it is easily accessible. This is a free activity and you’ll see the signs indicating the start of the trail, which is located on Lagoon Drive.
You can park at any of the public parking areas and then just walk to the reserve along the promenade. We parked at the Oyster Box Hotel’s parking area and then we awarded ourselves with a nice cocktail after our hike. This will however add a few more kilometers to your day.
More about the trail
This is a very easy 2 km walk, that can easily be done with sandals.
The trail starts on a wooden walkway that will lead you into a beautiful coastal forest and wetland. The trail zig-zags through the reserve and then you’ll find a wooden boardwalk that crosses the Ohlanga River lagoon. Once you’ve crossed this wooden walkway, you’ll know that the end is in sight. Pass through a bit more coastal forest and then the trail will lead you straight to the beach.
Take a picnic basket with you to enjoy at the beach while taking in the breathtaking views of the ocean and the sound of the roaring waves. Once you’ve decided to make your way back, you can either go back through the forest with the trail, or you can walk back along the beach.
Why should you visit the reserve?
The reserve is kept clean and is perfect for a family outing, also perfect for the inexperienced hiker. And the fact that the trail leads to the beach is a bonus. The beach is very quiet compared to the other beaches in the area. The wooden walkway also makes for beautiful photos as the trees’ reflection shines on the river.
You can also arrange a guided tour if you want to learn more about the fauna and flora of the area.
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