Lake Sibhayi

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Lake Sibhayi is the largest natural freshwater lake in South Africa, with a surface area of 77km². The lake is also wrongly known as Sibaya or Sibayi.

The lake is located in the Maputaland, or Umhlabuyalingana, area of KwaZulu-Natal, on the east coast of South Africa.

It is part of the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park and is recognised under the Ramsar Convention as a "Wetland of International Importance" on 28 June 1991. In December 1999 The Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

279 bird species have been identified at Lake Sibhayi.

The Mseleni Water Project and Mbazwana Water Supply Scheme both get their water from Lake Sibhayi.

[edit] Tourism

Lake Sibaya Lodge is situated on the northern shores of the lake. It is an upmarket lodge with 16 chalets.

Between Lake Sibhayi and the Indian Ocean is Mabibi. Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife run a campsite and chalets. There is also a private lodge - Thonga Beach Lodge.

The popular beach resort of Sodwana Bay is nearby and many people visit on day trips organised by tour operators based there.

[edit] Basic Data

Area 77km²

Maximum Depth 43m

Average Depth 12m

Elevation 20m AMSL

Location 27° 15' S - 27° 25' S and 32° 32' E - 32° 44' E

[edit] References


Coordinates: 27°21′S, 32°41′E