Hippo and crocodile cruise with free time

Experience Nature, Wildlife & Relaxation – St. Lucia Tour with Bakadi Dreams

Discover one of South Africa’s most impressive wetland areas on this unforgettable day tour to St. Lucia with Bakadi Dreams – a perfect mix of nature, wildlife viewing, and relaxation.

Transfer to St. Lucia – Gateway to iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Your adventure begins with pick-up at the port of Richards Bay.

Enjoy a comfortable 1.5-hour drive to the charming town of St. Lucia, part of the UNESCO World Heritage SiteiSimangaliso Wetland Park.

On the way, take in the diverse landscape and get ready to meet the fascinating wildlife that awaits you.

Free Time in St. Lucia – Explore, Shop & Relax

Upon arrival, you’ll have two hours of free time to explore St. Lucia at your own pace. You can:

  • Stroll through the local market and discover handmade souvenirs crafted by local artisans
  • Wander the charming streets of St. Lucia and soak up its relaxed coastal vibe
  • Sit down at one of the many cafés or restaurants and enjoy a refreshing drink with views of the surrounding nature

This leisure time allows you to experience the region in your own way before the water adventure begins.

Two-Hour Boat Cruise – Encounter Hippos & Crocodiles

At 2:00 PM, you’ll board the Hippo & Croc Barge for a 2-hour cruise through the St. Lucia Estuary, a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers.

Home to over 800 hippos and 1,200 crocodiles, this vast wetland offers incredible opportunities to see these animals up close in their natural habitat.

Hippos often come right up to the boat, and the experienced English-speaking guides will share fascinating facts about the unique ecosystem, the animals, and the importance of this area for conservation.

With a bit of luck, you’ll also spot various bird species such as kingfishers, fish eagles, and herons that call this wetland home.

Return to Richards Bay

After the boat tour, the return transfer departs at 4:00 PM.

Relax on the 1.5-hour journey back to Richards Bay and reflect on the day’s unforgettable experiences. You will arrive at the port around 5:30 PM.

Important Tour Information

📅 Schedule:

  • 10:00 – 11:30 AM: Transfer from Richards Bay to St. Lucia
  • 12:00 – 2:00 PM: Free time in St. Lucia
  • 2:00 – 4:00 PM: Boat cruise on the St. Lucia Estuary
  • 4:00 – 5:30 PM: Return transfer to the port

👥 Minimum participants: 4 people

This tour is ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts looking for a unique experience in one of South Africa’s most beautiful regions.

👉 For more shore excursions in Richards Bay, click here.

Hippo and crocodile cruise with free time

140per person

Included in the price:

  • Round-trip transfer in a comfortable vehicle
  • Entrance fees for iSimangaliso Wetland Park
  • Light lunch (seafood platter)
  • 2 soft drinks with lunch
  • Boat tour with English-speaking guide

Not included in the price:

Tips/gratuities

Cancellation Policy:

If the port is not called at and this is announced less than 24 hours in advance, we will do our best to refund as much as possible. However, any costs already incurred on our side will need to be retained.