Swartvlei - Wilderness National Park, Garden Route
The Swartvlei estuary mouth can remain closed for half the year due to silt build up. (Image adapted). © Discover Sedgefield South AfricaSwartvlei - Wilderness National Park, Garden Route
Swartvlei is the largest and deepest lake in the Wilderness National Park, located near Sedgefield in the scenic Garden Route area of the Western Cape. This expansive waterbody covers approximately 9 square kilometers and reaches depths of up to 16 meters, offering a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The lake forms part of a complex estuarine system connected to the Indian Ocean through an estuary, creating a rich and biodiverse habitat that supports a variety of bird, fish, and plant species. The name Swartvlei translated into English means "black swamp" however this does not describe this wonderful lagoon which opens to the sea for approximately 6 months of the year.
Swartvlei is a prime destination for various recreational activities, including swimming, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and fishing. Its calm waters and lush surroundings make it a popular spot for picnics, while the adjacent nature trails offer opportunities to explore the diverse fynbos vegetation and coastal forests that characterize the Wilderness National Park. Birdwatching is also a highlight here, with sightings of waterfowl, kingfishers, fish eagles, and other species common in the area.
The lake plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem and is managed as part of the Garden Route National Park by South African National Parks (SANParks). Conservation efforts are in place to maintain the health and sustainability of this sensitive wetland environment, ensuring that it remains a treasured natural attraction for both residents and visitors alike.
Contact Details for Wilderness National Park:
Phone: +27 (0)44 877 0046
Email: see website
Website: https://www.sanparks.org
Accommodation Near Swartvlei - Wilderness National Park, Garden Route
40 Montage Village
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Sedgefield
3.8km from Swartvlei - Wilderness National Park, Garden Route40 Montage Village offers self catering accommodation in Sedgefield, Garden Route. This is the perfect holiday house (8 sleeper) to spend a relaxed carefree holiday. Overlooking a bird sanctuary and in a secure complex this modern holiday house is central …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Kiewietjie Cottage
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Sedgefield
5.7km from Swartvlei - Wilderness National Park, Garden RouteKiewietjie Cottage offers a selection of self catering accommodation in Sedgefield, Garden Route. Located in the beautiful seaside town of Sedgefield and offers guests three comfortable furnished self-catering units. The 2 bedroom units have a view on th …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Elfransa Beach Cottage
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Sedgefield
5.8km from Swartvlei - Wilderness National Park, Garden RouteElfranse Beach Cottage provides self catering accommodation in Sedgefield, Garden Route. Situated on the front row of Myoli Beach, 150m from the main swimming area and whale-watching platform. This 90 square meter two-bedroom Sedgefield cottage is... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Old Trading Post B&B and Self Catering
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Wilderness, George
10.7km from Swartvlei - Wilderness National Park, Garden RouteThe Old Trading Post - Guests can book either on a Bed & Breakfast, Self-catering or Bed only basis, depending on the room chosen. Braai facilities are available. Children and pets are welcome. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Oakhurst Farm Cottages
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Wilderness, George
11.2km from Swartvlei - Wilderness National Park, Garden RouteOakhurst is one of the original large properties of the Garden Route situated in the Wilderness district, near George. There are 11 different self catering units available. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Fairy Knowe Hotel
Hotel / Boutique Hotel Accommodation in Wilderness, George
15.6km from Swartvlei - Wilderness National Park, Garden RouteThe Fairy Knowe Hotel, affectionately referred to as 'the grand dame' of Wilderness in the Cape's Garden Route has been welcoming guests since 1924. This landmark hotel was renovated in 2021 and is looking gracious and glorious once again! …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
At Rest
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Wilderness, George
16km from Swartvlei - Wilderness National Park, Garden RouteAt Rest provides self catering accommodation in Wilderness, Garden Route. Our charming self-catering log cabin at Pirates Creek, in the heart of the Garden Route in the Wilderness National Park, close to the beach. It is a popular weekend and holiday brea …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Serendipity Guest House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Wilderness, George
16.5km from Swartvlei - Wilderness National Park, Garden RouteSerendipity Guest House provides bed and breakfast accommodation in Wilderness, Garden Route. Situated on the banks of the Touw River and borders on the Wilderness National Park, a UNESCO proclaimed water bird conservancy. We have 4 en-suite bedrooms... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Wilderness Manor
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Wilderness, George
16.9km from Swartvlei - Wilderness National Park, Garden RouteWilderness Manor is an elegant and refined guest house overlooking the Wilderness Lagoon, in the scenic village of Wilderness. Step out of the front door and cross the road onto the boardwalk for an easy and safe stroll to golden beaches, restaurants... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Wilderness Waters
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Wilderness, George
18.1km from Swartvlei - Wilderness National Park, Garden RouteSet in the charming Wilderness Village, overlooking the Wilderness Lagoon & sea, Wilderness Waters welcomes its visitors to stylish and well-appointed 4-star accommodation - all within walking distance of the golden beach, the fresh water lagoon... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
- The Island (Sedgefield) (3.05km)
- Sedgefield (5.49km)
- Sedgehill (Sedgefield) (5.92km)
- Myoli Beach (Sedgefield) (6.24km)
- Rondevlei (6.37km)
- Groenvallei (6.61km)
- Smutsville (6.78km)
- Ruigtevlei (Sedgefield) (6.92km)
- Cola Beach (6.97km)
- Groenvlei, Sedgefield (7.89km)
- Kleinkrantz (10.32km)
- Karatara (11.19km)
- Hoekwil, Wilderness (15.96km)
- Wilderness Heights (17.26km)
- Wilderness, George (17.85km)
- Wild Oats Community Farmers Market - Sedgefield, Western Cape (2.46km)
- Sedgefield Lagoon - Sedgefield, Garden Route (4.53km)
- Rondevlei - Wilderness, Garden Route (4.59km)
- Wilderness National Park - nr George, Garden Route (5.25km)
- Bo-Langvlei - Wilderness, Garden Route (7.78km)
- Groenvlei Lake (Lake Pleasant) - Sedgefield, Garden Route (10.20km)
- Island Lake - Wilderness National Park, Garden Route (11.64km)
- Woodville Big Tree - Garden Route National Park, Wilderness (12.86km)
- Hoekwil Hoopla Route - nr George, Western Cape (13.91km)
- Homtini Pass - between George and Knysna, Garden Route (17.03km)
- Goukamma Nature Reserve - Buffels Bay, Garden Route (17.74km)
- Outeniqua Nature Reserve - Garden Route, Western Cape (18.15km)
