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Nature reserve · Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal
Reserva Natural da Lagoa de Umhlanga
Small reserve of coastal forest, dunes and a lagoon at the mouth of the Ohlanga River, north of Umhlanga, with a trail and boardwalks to the beach.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Reserva Natural da Lagoa de Umhlanga
The Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve protects the mouth of the Ohlanga River and the Hawaan coastal forest, one of the last stretches of this forest type in the region. It sits at the northern tip of the town, a few minutes’ walk from the promenade.
A circular trail crosses the forest on wooden boardwalks, spans the river by a bridge and reaches the dunes and the beach where the lagoon meets the sea. Along the way there are panels about the trees and wildlife, and in the forest it’s common to see vervet monkeys, forest birds and butterflies.
Near the trail there is a site with shells accumulated by people who lived and fished in the area centuries ago.
It is a short, shaded walk that contrasts with Umhlanga’s developed seafront.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, when there are more birds and less heat.
How to get there
The entrance is at the end of Lagoon Drive, in north Umhlanga, about 2 km from the lighthouse, on foot via the promenade or by car.
Tip
Bring insect repellent and water. Swimming in the lagoon is not advised.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Reserva Natural da Lagoa de Umhlanga
What is in the Umhlanga lagoon reserve?
Coastal forest, wooden boardwalks, the mouth of the Ohlanga River, dunes and beach.
How long is the trail?
From 45 minutes to an hour and a half.
Where is the entrance to the reserve?
At the end of Lagoon Drive, in north Umhlanga.