FALSE BAY BOAT SAFARIS


Discover the quiet side of Lake St Lucia

A private, immersive water safari in Africas oldest UNESCO World Heritage Site

Escape the crowds and step into the stillness of northern Lake St Lucia, a sanctuary of pelicans, flamingos, hippos, crocodiles and untouched shoreline beauty.

With a maximum of 10 guests per departure, each cruise promises personal guiding, photographic moments and rare access to the quietest corner of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

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Where the water is wild and the experience is intimate

Here, silence becomes part of the story. Birds skim the waterlines, hippos surface, crocodiles slide off sandbanks and the forested shoreline stands untouched.

This is Lake St Lucia, as very few ever experience it.

  • Experienced guides
  • Ideal for families, couples and photographers
  • Part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park

What guests could see

This is Lake St Lucia, as very few ever experience it.

  • Hippos in their natural pods
  • Nile crocodiles on sandy stretches
  • Pelicans, flamingos, kingfishers, spoonbills and storks
  • Open lake vistas and fossil beds
  • Eastern Shores wildlife drinking at the water

About the experience

Why False Bay is different

False Bay lies tucked between ancient sand forests and fossil rich beaches, far from the busy eastern shores.
Here, the adventure is unhurried, quiet and immersive, perfect for travellers seeking nature in its purest form.

Ancient sand forests and fossil rich shores

The surrounding sand forest grows on dunes older than human civilisation, preserving fossil beds formed when this region was once submerged or connected to the ocean.

These formations, more than one hundred thousand years old, showcase profound coastal evolution and are part of why this region is so protected.

Safari options

Daily boat safari

A two hour guided cruise revealing Lake St Lucias water landscapes, with a maximum of 10 guests per departure.

Rates per person

  • Adults - R250.00
  • Children under 12 - R125.00
  • Pensioners - R200.00

What is included

  • Expert guide and skipper
  • Light refreshments on pre order
  • Birding and ecological commentary
  • Safety briefing and indemnity on arrival

External beverages are not permitted. You can pre order drinks through the lodge before departure.

Where you will explore

Departures and arrivals take place at the False Bay Campsite Office. The safari explores the quiet northern reaches of Lake St Lucia, depending on wind and water conditions on the day.

Routes may vary slightly depending on conditions on the lake.

For birders

A paradise for serious and casual birders alike

Lake St Lucia is a recognised Important Bird Area. False Bay is one of its richest pockets, with shallow, sheltered waters that attract flocks to feed and rest in peace.

Likely sightings

  • Greater and Lesser Flamingos
  • Great White and Pink backed Pelicans
  • African Fish Eagle
  • Goliath Heron
  • Giant, Malachite and Pied Kingfishers
  • Spoonbills, storks, herons, terns and waders
  • Seasonal migrants, depending on time of year

Why birders love False Bay

  • Shallow waters ideal for feeding birds
  • Large flocks often gather in quiet pockets
  • Only commercial boat operator on the northern lake
  • Open skies and clean waterlines for photography

Bookings

Booking is essential

Due to the small group size, seats fill quickly. Advance booking is required at least 24 hours before departure.

Contact details

T: 035 562 9005

E: malkoha.reception@dreamresorts.co.za

Booking details

  • Advance booking required: at least 24 hours
  • Deposit: 50% to secure your booking
  • Private charters are available on request
  • Park entrance fees are not included
  • Valid from 1 November 2025 to 1 November 2026

Send us an enquiry

Simply send us your details below and we will be in touch to help you further

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    Frequently asked questions

    Everything you wanted to know about False Bay Safaris

    Is this safari suitable for children? +

    Yes. The calm waters and short duration make it very suitable for families. Life jackets are available for children, with sizes from around 6 kilograms and up.

    Is this the same as the St Lucia estuary cruise? +

    No. False Bay offers a quieter, more private and nature focused experience, far from the high traffic eastern shores and busy estuary cruises.

    Will we see the Big Five? +

    This is a water based safari, so you are unlikely to see the full Big Five. For guests wanting game drives, False Bay is close to Mkhuze, Hluhluwe Imfolozi and Manyoni.

    Can I book the whole boat for an event? +

    Yes. Private charters can be arranged. Please contact us for current rates and availability.

    Can I bring my own food and drinks? +

    You are welcome to bring your own snacks. External drinks are not permitted, but we can arrange beverages for you in advance through the lodge.

    Is the boat safe? +

    Yes. All trips are skippered by trained guides with valid accreditation and all required safety equipment on board. A safety briefing and indemnity form are completed on arrival.

     

       

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