About this property
Set on the shores of Lake St Lucia within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, this luxury lodge offers spacious accommodation within this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Makakatana Bay Lodge has private, elegantly decorated suites and rooms that are interconnected on raised walkways. Makakatana Bay Lodge has elegantly decorated suites and rooms with wooden furniture and parquet floors. Each of the air-conditioned units has an outdoor shower and a work desk. This 4-star property offers you a unique experience when it comes to safaris. You can enjoy drives and boat safaris to explore the wetlands and admire hippos and crocodiles. Other safari options include trips to the Indian Ocean. You will also have the opportunity to see many different animals, including elephants, hyenas, buffaloes and antelopes King Shaka International Airport is 230 km away.
Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 10 for a two-person trip.
Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap
Most popular facilities
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Free parking
- Free WiFi
- Family rooms
- Restaurant
- Non-smoking rooms
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Bar
- Private beach area
- Breakfast
Guest reviews
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Guests who stayed here loved
- Rowan
South Africa
“This charming family-run lodge in Catalina Bay, St Lucia, offers 120 years of rich heritage, heartfelt hospitality, and a true connection to nature and community. Everything about this place is special - the people, the lodge and the environment...” - Yg
India
“Best part of our SA trip. Amazing property and superbly upkept, fabulous staff, great sightings, top class hospitality, gourmet meals .... can't ask for more. Stayed for 5 nights.” - George
Canada
“The staff and facility far exceeded our expectations. The lodge is more than willing to accommodate any requirements that we requested.” - Micha
Germany
“Es war phantastisch - so was von Service, Essen (Fine Dining) einfach unübertroffen - wir wurden verwöhnt wie die Könige. Frühstück in einem Baumplateau - nur für uns zwei - Auswahl war wie in einem Grand-Hotel. Abend ein Dinner vor der Lodge mit...” - Truus
Netherlands
“Geweldige plek ik in de wetlands, prachtige lodges. Het personeel heel professioneel en zeer gastvrij. Fantastisch om de wetlands per boot te verkennen en de nijlpaarden en krokodillen te spotten. De antilopen en andere dieren lopen ‘‘s morgens en...” - Mateo
Spain
“LA UBICACIÓN, EL ENTORNO, EL DISEÑO Y LA AMABILIDAD DEL PERSONAL. LA CENA EXCELENTE. LA TERRAZA / PISCINA MUY AGRADABLE CON VISTAS AL LAGO. AL ATARDECER VINO A LA MISMA PUERTA DEL HOTEL UNA GRAN MANADA DE ELEFANTES, QUE ANDUVIERON COMIENDO Y...” - David
Belgium
“L'hôtel est composé de logements construits sur pilotis dans une réserve naturelle au milieu d'une réserve naturelle. On est au milieu de nulle part entre les hippopotames et les giraffes dans un confort qui fait de ce lieu un paradis. Les...” - David
Belgium
“Le confort dans un environnement exceptionnel. La gentillesse de l’équipe et son professionnalisme. On est au bout du monde et on loge dans des chambres aménagées avec goût en mangeant une cuisine raffinée. Aves notre guide, nous sommes...” - Egon
Austria
“Eine wunderbare Lodge mit sehr sehr guter Atomsphäre. Die Eigentümer kümmern sich selbst um die Lodge und das Wohlbefinden der Gäste und das dazugehöhende Team arbeitet perfekt. Essen und Ausflugsprogramm sehr exklusiv und hervorragend.”
Property surroundings
Restaurants
- Restaurant
- CuisineAfrican • European • South African
- Open forBreakfast • Lunch • Dinner • High tea
- AmbianceTraditional • Modern • Romantic
- Dietary optionsVegetarian • Vegan • Gluten-free • Dairy-free
House rules
Child policies
Children older than 6 years are welcome.
Children 13 years and above will be charged as adults at this property.
To see correct prices and occupancy information, please add the number of children in your group and their ages to your search.
Cot and extra bed policies
Cots and extra beds are not available at this property.



The fine print
The property is accessed via the Nhlozi Gate of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park which operates from 06:00 to 18:00 daily. Guests arriving late may be subject to a late arrival fee.
Please note that a community and conservation charge is required at the property for an additional charge of ZAR 80 per person per night.
Guests are required to show a photo identification and credit card upon check-in. Please note that all Special Requests are subject to availability and additional charges may apply.
Please inform Makakatana Bay Lodge in advance of your expected arrival time. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly with the contact details provided in your confirmation.
Payment before arrival via bank transfer is required. The property will contact you after you book to provide instructions.
This property is accessible via an unpaved road, which may be unsuitable for some vehicles.
Dear Visitor, this region is currently experiencing drought conditions. Please be aware that certain properties are subject to comply with local water usage restrictions.
In response to Coronavirus (COVID-19), additional safety and sanitation measures are in effect at this property.
Due to Coronavirus (COVID-19), this property is taking steps to help protect the safety of guests and staff. Certain services and amenities may be reduced or unavailable as a result.
Due to Coronavirus (COVID-19), this property has reduced reception and service operating hours.
In accordance with government guidelines to minimise transmission of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), this property may request additional documentation from guests to validate identity, travel itinerary and other relevant information, during dates where such guidelines exist.