Welcome To
MAKAKATANA
Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site with Makakatana, located on the banks of Lake St Lucia.
Located in the heart of South Africa's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Makakatana offers immersive safaris, private boat cruises, full-day beach excursions and close-up wildlife encounters on Lake St Lucia's shores— providing an extraordinary gateway to the miracle and wonders of iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
iSimangaliso means “miracle and wonder” in isiZulu
iSimangaliso Wetland Park, located along the Indian Ocean, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unparalleled biodiversity. Home to Africa’s largest coastal sand dunes and the unique Lake St. Lucia ecosystem, where wetlands, grasslands, forests, and marine environments converge, it supports a vast array of wildlife. This rare blend of natural wonders makes iSimangaliso a globally significant conservation area.
Celebrating 25 years
Makakatana was established in 1999 by Hugh and Leigh-Ann Morrison, and is the only privately owned lodge within South Africa's iSimangaliso Wetland Park. As we reflect on 25 years of unforgettable memories, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our team and guests who have been part of this remarkable journey. The commitment and passion of our staff, many of whom have been part of the Makakatana family for years, are the cornerstone of the warm and welcoming atmosphere at Makakatana. Thank you.
2024 World Luxury Hotels Award Winner
Step into Makakatana
Makakatana is a multi-award-winning, solar-powered luxury lodge featuring 8 elegantly designed rooms. Nestled on the shores of Lake St. Lucia within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, it is surrounded by pristine wetlands, offering guests unmatched access to one of Africa's most biodiverse ecosystems.
The lodge and rooms feature warm wooden beams, open-plan layouts, and thoughtfully curated décor, blending modern comfort with the natural charm of the wetland. Each room offers a tranquil, inviting atmosphere designed to connect you with the surroundings.
Rooms
Makakatana offers 8 luxurious, spacious suites, each featuring private decks, indoor and outdoor bathrooms and stunning views of the wetland
View Exclusive Offers
Honeymoon Suite
Sleeps 2 Adults
Set privately with stunning views of the wetland, the Honeymoon Suite is a secluded retreat for couples. Large windows and terrace doors open onto a private deck, blending luxury and nature to create the ultimate romantic escape.
Book Now
Boat, Beach, Safari
Experiences
Immerse yourself in iSimangaliso's breathtaking diversity, where serene waterways and wildlife-rich wetlands meet pristine, untouched beaches.
Explore all Experiences
Safari
Ecoboat
Beach
Boat
Stories from the Wetlands
Makakatana's Featured Blogs
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur. Cras euismod bibendum pellentesque sit mauris. Aliquam sed nullam gravida amet posuere luctus convallis diam eget. Vitae urna integer tempus sit risus. Quisque nibh eu massa amet.
Explore all Blogs
South Africa's First UNESCO World Heritage Site
iSimangaliso Wetland Park
"The Wetland Park must be the only place on the globe where the world's oldest land mammal (the Rhinoceros) and the world's biggest terrestrial mammal (the Elephant) share an ecosystem with the world's oldest Fish (the Coelacanth) and the world's biggest marine mammal (the Whale) "
Nelson Mandela
PARK LAND AND SEA
1,314,539 Hectares
REGION
Zululand, South Africa
RECOGNITION
