Hippo and Croc Cruise St Lucia, KwaZulu Natal
Ever imagined seeing a Hippo upclose, if yes why not enjoy a Hippo and Croc Cruise on the St Lucia Estuary
Not only may one enjoy a guaranteed sighting of a Hippo but rather now that St Lucia is home to one of the largest free-roaming Hippo Populations in Southern Africa. It is estimated that the area is home to approximately 800 Hippos and an astonishing 1200 Nile Crocodiles.
Arriving in St Lucia remember to be on the lookout for our lovely Hippos in the Estuary as you cross the bridge, or better yet park in the parking lot prior to the bridge for an amazing sight of Hippos.
The St Lucia Bridge also happens to be the border between the Eastern and Western Shores of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Other areas of interest also include the world acclaimed Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park.
Introducing Shoreline Hippo and Croc Boat Cruise in St Lucia
These two unique shallow-draft boats were specifically designed for the prevailing conditions within the St Lucia Estuary. Smaller in size and only able to accommodate a maximum of 15 passengers per trip. This truly is one of those scenarios where bigger is not always better as these two specific vessels have the ability to go much shallower thus ensuring optimum sightings while out on the 2 Hour Hippo and Croc Boat Cruise while out on the St Lucia Estuary.
Hippo and Croc Cruise St Lucia, Duration & Departure Point
All trips conducted are for a duration time of 2 Hours. every Two Hours of the day. The departure point is at the Siyabonga Jetty, this is the jetty situated just before entering the town of St Lucia. With ample free parking, this is also the perfect place to enjoy the sun setting and watching and listening to the grunts of the Hippos.
Hippo and Croc Cruise St Lucia, Ticket Office
Purchasing tickets has never been easier, either book direct Online or Give Us a Call or Drop By the Ticket Office.
Contact No: +27 35 590 1555
Email: info@stlucia.co.za
Hippo and Croc Cruise St Lucia, What to Expect
Sit back and enjoy live commentary from one of our experienced and knowledgeable Skipper/Guides. After a brief introduction set off in a Northerly direction and continue up the estuary for approximately 7 kilometers. Along the way you are guaranteed of witnessing these magnificent animals (Hippos), unfortunately, it is not a guarantee that you will see the Nile Crocodiles as they do move a considerable amount, especially during nesting season.
The area is also well known for its birdlife so make sure you have your camera handy.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Hippo and Croc Cruises in St Lucia
Unfortunately, this is nature and nothing is guaranteed. However, Shoreline Hippo Boat Cruise offers a 99% guarantee of seeing the Hippos.
All Hippo and Croc Boat Cruises on the St Lucia Estuary are for 2 hours, Shoreline does also sometimes offer a 1 hour trip however prior bookings are required. +27 35 5901555
For starters, the area is South Africa's very first-world heritage site. The abundance of Hippos roaming freely in and around St Lucia makes it a true testament that wildlife and humans can live in harmony.
It's not always needed, especially during the quieter months, however, it would depend on what times you would like to enjoy the Cruise as most times the late afternoon trips are fully booked.
Shoreline Boat Trips depart from the Siyabonga Jetty, every two hours each day. This jetty is just prior to traveling over the bridge into town. With large parking lots which also offer some amazing sightings.
Hippo and Croc Cruise St Lucia
Hippo and Nile Crocodile Fun Facts
Hippo Fun Facts
- Hippos are Herbivores, however, Hippos may sometimes eat meat for needed nutrients this may occur during the dryer seasons.
- The gestation period is 8 months
- Hippos Can Not Swim
- They have super sensitive skin
- Seriously territorial in the water
Nile Crocodile Fun Facts
- Both the male and female parent will stay with the nest (eggs) to protect them from predators
- The biting force is 5 times stronger than that of a Lion
- They can reach speeds of up to 22 mph
- Nile Crocodiles are reptiles
- They are incredibly fast over short distances
The rest of the facts we will leave for the rangers to explain to you.
Heritage Tours & Safaris offers a smorgasbord of both day and overnight safari packages into this wonderful area. We would be delighted should you like to join us. Our Safari Packages include the likes of 1 to 9 nights and highlight the very best that one may experience within the Zululand area.
Likewise, our daily excursions into the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Big 5 Reserve are exciting and truly breathtaking as well as the iSimangaliso Wetland Park day Activities. We would be delighted should you join us.
