ATC 2015 Brochure v1 (English) | Page 149

The iSimangaliso Wetland Park is located 300km north of Durban, on Kwazulu-Natal’s subtropical coastline. This national reserve, formerly known as the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, is a prime destination offering land-based and marine wildlife safaris. The Wetland Park is regarded as the only place on the globe where the world’s oldest land mammal (the rhinoceros) and largest land mammal (the elephant) share an ecosystem with the world’s oldest fish (the coelacanth) and largest marine mammal (the whale). Ecological treasures include 100 species of coral, 8 interlinking ecosystems, the last major swamp forests left in South Africa, 3 major lake systems including Kosi Bay, Lake St Lucia and Lake Sibayi, and 105 years of conservation, which makes it Africa’s oldest protected area. The Park is a memorable experience for both the wildlife enthusiast and those curious about local culture. iSimangaliso is home to significant cultural heritage sites where you will encounter 5 distinct cultural groups including Zulu, Swazi, Shangaan, Tonga and Gonda. Sani Pass Sani Pass is one of the most spectacular mountain passes in South Africa, twisting over the Drakensberg escarpment high into Lesotho. It’ is accessed via 4x4, mountain bike, quad bike or motorcycle, or you can join legions of runners who tackle it on foot each year if you’re up for the challenge! Sani Pass is a name synonymous with adventure, both because of its remote location and the challenging ride it takes to access the summit. The pass is a popular mountain biking destination, and for a slightly less demanding way to enjoy the scenery, quad bikes are available. Meals and beverages are served to adventure enthusiasts in the Sani Top Chalet, home of the highest pub in Africa. Peaking at 2 873m above sea level, the pass is also aptly referred to as the “Roof of Africa”. www.atctravel.co.za 149 KwaZulu Natal iSimangaliso Wetlands Park