Accommodation in Private Reserves / Establishments is of a good to excellent quality and covers all of the EcoTravel Africa classifications, being:

• Traditional - Traditional African Dwellings + see "Nature Rating"
• Camping - Camping in tents or over-nighting in Caves + see "Nature Rating"
• Budget - Comfortable and clean self-catering and / or backpacker style accommodation + see "Nature Rating"
• Classic - Quality accommodation + see "Nature Rating"
• Luxury - Luxurious accommodation + see "Nature Rating" - excellent atmosphere and attention to detail - a culture of pampering guests.
• Premier - Exclusive accommodation + see "Nature Rating" - stunning atmosphere and exceptional attention to detail - a culture of pampering guests.

Remember that The Greater St. Lucia Wetlands Park is 280km long and is situated around many wetlands and lakes. This makes distances deceptive as you are going to the other side of the lake or to Cape Vidal for a swim the sea, yet in reality, it could be a two hour journey. Plan you stay so that your accommodation is within an acceptable distance from your desired activity. Use EcoTravel Africa's Greater St. Lucia Wetlands Park Map to find your way around or to choice an area to visit. The map is perfect for Birder's who may wish to change accommodation more often and be near to top birding spots and general EcoTourists who just want to relax in one place yet want a number of activities nearby!

The Private Reserves / Establishments offer a far wider range of activities and facilities than the KZN Wildlife Reserves. Everything from bowls and tennis to golf, squash and scuba diving to keep your non-eco-fanatical spouse / partner / family happy! Our selection of EcoDestinations has taken this inevitable problem into account by selecting a range of destinations that cover a broad range of interests. Depending on your co-travelers, you can use our "Nature Rating" to assess the destinations suitability. A score of only one ' *' in our "Nature Rating" may be a Luxury establishment with stunning views, excellent food and would suit a co-traveler that preferred to be near to shops, restaurants, arts & crafts etc. while you, or you both end up taking a days outing on the Lake with St Lucia Kayak Safaris! A maximum score of 5 ' *' indicates that the destination is in the most pristine and natural setting and may be anything from a camp site to a Luxury or Premier Lodge! The "Nature Rating" is thus independant of the "luxuriousness" of the destination. Always make sure that your Field Guide is registered with DEAT and suitably qualified. FGASA manages the qualifications required by the DEAT.