South Africa Accommodation | Kwazulu Natal

Rocktail Bay Lodge

The Rocktail Experience

Situated in northern Natal, within the Maputaland Coastal Forest Reserve and adjoining the Maputaland Marine Reserve, lies the secluded Rocktail Bay Lodge. Situated metres from the Indian Ocean in the coastal forest just behind the first row of forested dunes, this lodge offers perhaps the most private beach experience in South Africa. It is a joint venture between Wilderness Safaris, the conservation authorities in the region, and the surrounding villagers who live closest to Rocktail just outside the reserve. The bay received its name after a trawling ship, the Rocktail, was wrecked offshore. Few parts of the South African coastline are as unspoilt and secluded as the area in the vicinity of Rocktail Bay. Here visitors can enjoy wonderful strolls along the deserted beaches, snorkelling, excellent fishing from rocky points, or walks in search of elusive forest birds. A number of exciting localities in the vicinity can be visited on day excursions.

Activities

In addition to simply sunning yourself on the clean, golden beaches, a variety of guided activities are available. The Indian Ocean is ideal for snorkelling in search of tropical fish. Flippers and snorkels are supplied by the lodge. The surf fishing in this area is reputed to be amongst the best on the east coast. Nature walks through the coastal forest and grasslands, or drives in open 4x4 vehicles to Black Rock and other localities, will enthral naturalists and photographers. The spectacular Lake Sibaya is only a short drive away. In summer, nocturnal explorations along the beach in search of egg-laying sea turtles can be arranged. There is a swimming pool and sun deck for those who want to relax around the lodge.

Wildlife

This is not "Big Game" country, although we do have our own "Big Five" -- leatherback turtle, palmnut vulture, Buiton's skink, lion fish and Zululand cycad. Two interesting antelope occur, namely common reedbuck in the marshes and grasslands, and red duiker in forest patches. Hippo are found in the fresh-water lakes, while whales and dolphins are sometimes spotted offshore. Birding is very good and a number of typical coastal species occur, including green twinspot, green coucal, grey waxbill, and purplecrested and Livingstone's louries. Natal robin and the jewel-like emerald cuckoo frequent the forests, while the marshy areas are home to pinkthroated longclaw and rufousbellied heron. Various waders frequent the shoreline.

Accommodation

Ten wood-and-thatch "tree-house" chalets are raised up on stilts into the forest canopy, each with a private wooden deck. The chalets have either two or three beds, with private shower and toilet facilities. Twenty guests can be accommodated comfortably. There is a lounge/pub and dining area where meals are served under thatch or under the giant Natal mahogany trees. An intricate boardwalk winds from the lodge, through the dune forest, and down to the beach.

Rocktail at a glance

Situated in northern Natal, South Africa, in the coastal forest reserve.
Ten comfortable "tree-house" chalets with private or en-suite facilities.
Dining room and pub under thatch.
Plunge pool.
Activities by 4x4 to secluded bays in the area, snorkelling, beach and forest walks, fishing, and bird-watching.
800 m of good gravel airfield 12 km from Rocktail.
Access is either by air or by normal vehicle to the entrance of the reserve, 11 km away. From here it is a 4x4 transfer to the lodge. The transfer is provided by the lodge.