About Lake Phobane
KwaZulu-Natal is abuzz with incredible natural sights and attractions, offering visitors from all over the world an amazing variety of things to do and see. Just outside Eshowe (the oldest European town in Zululand) is the magnificent Lake Phobane. This used to be known as the Goedertrouw Dam, and is acclaimed for its massive scale. In fact, it is the second-largest lake in the province, and is fed by seven rivers.
Having been constructed almost 30 years ago, Lake Phobane is 14 kilometres long and accommodates about 300 million cubic metres of water. It is idyllically situated in the Umhlatuze Valley, surrounded by the breath-taking Mabelebele Mountain Range, which both make for stunning backdrops.
The local vegetation ranges from acacia trees and mountain flora to riverine forest and mixed woodlands, ensuring absolutely beautiful vistas and unforgettable photo opportunities.
The varied vegetation also means that Lake Phobane and its surrounds are ideal habitats for a number of different animal species. Birding enthusiasts will be astounded at the sheer magnitude of the local bird population. These include the long-tailed paradise whydah, green-winged pytilia, blue-cheeked bee-eater, southern boubou, brown-crowned tchagra, yellow-breasted apalis, red-fronted tinkerbird, red-billed firefinch, and kurrichane thrush.
Seven different kingfisher species can also be found here; as well as owls, ducks and ospreys. Taking a boat out on the dam with a good pair of binoculars is a fantastic and rewarding way for avian fans to spend an afternoon.
The southern portion of the dam is known as the Umhlatuze Community Conservation Area and is home to impala, giraffe, kudu, waterbuck and even the shy leopard.
With this abundance, Lake Phobane is the perfect retreat for hikers, canoeists, cyclists and those who simply love the splendour of the African countryside and its wildlife. Those wanting to experience the Zulu culture in a more hands-on way will likely enjoy visiting the nearby Shakaland Cultural Village.
Need to Know
WhereLake Phobane, 10km out of Eshowe, Zululand, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
WhenBest during daylight hours
OvernightStay in Eshowe Accommodation, KwaZulu Natal
Disclaimer
Please note, business details can change. While we endeavour to ensure all information provided by the service provider is correct at the time of publication, we do not assume any liability caused by errors or changes, such as price, cost, time, and location. Please check with the provider that the activity/business is still offered as described, before making any travel plans.
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Additional Reading
- Exclusive-Use Safari Villas for Family and Group Getaways
- Best Places to Stay in Hluhluwe – the doorstep of iSimangaliso Wetland Park & Hluhluwe-iMfolozi
- Everything You Need to Know to See the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve Properly
- Kwazulu Natal for bird watchers
- 8 Fabulous Self-Drive Routes in KwaZulu-Natal – Making Travel Easy
- 20 most beautiful natural places in South Africa
Attractions near Eshowe
In the vicinity
Hotels & other accommodation options in Eshowe
African Dwarf Kingfisher Guesthouse
African Dwarf Kingfisher Guest House is situated in Eshowe, ideal for those on the Zululand Birding Route and close to Dlinza Forest. Quality acc...
Birds of Paradise B&B
Birds of Paradise enjoys the quiet surroundings of a magnificent park like garden adjoining the indigenous Dhlinza Forest. More than 35 species o...
Dlinza Forest Accommodation
Dlinza Forest Accommodation is situated in the historical town of Eshowe in Zululand. We offer four unique, tastefully furnished fully equipped s...
Eshowe Guesthouse
Situated in the Zululand town of Eshowe, the guesthouse offers accommodation in serviced rooms. Eshowe guesthouse has beautiful gardens, an abund...
Matatane Camp
Matatane Camp offers accommodation in Ulundi in the White Umfolozi Valley, close to the impressive Nhlazatshe Mountain. If you're after an outdoo...
Eagles Nest Guesthouse
Eagles Nest Guesthouse is set in the heart of Eshowe, which is surrounded by the natural Dlinza Forest. The Guest house offers a total of eight r...
Eshowe Hills Eco and Golf Estate
Situated on the rolling hills just outside Eshowe, with magnificent views down to the coast, and within easy reach of the new King Shaka Airport,...
Babanango Valley Lodge
Set deep in the heart of the Babanango Valley, Valley Lodge offers a “home away from home” experience in a farm-styled environment. It is the per...
Sugar Hill Manor Guesthouse
Situated in Eshowe, Sugar Hill Manor offers accommodation in a 100 year old Victorian home which boasts stunning views of the countryside. The pr...
Things to do in the area
Zululand Brewery
You may already know all about the Zululand Brewery because you're already a fan of the Zulu Blonde Beer, which is available in the United Kingdo...
Made at Home
Made at Home is a fun, fresh and funky market with one simple rule … nothing allowed from factories or shops. So everything you stumble across is...
Dlinza Forest Aerial Boardwalk
South Africa and its subtropical province of KwaZulu-Natal are both testimony to the beauty and profusion of natural treasures to be found within...
Rainbow Route
The Rainbow Route links the provinces of Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal starting at Carolina. It passes through the towns of Kriel, Bethal, Ermelo,...
Accommodation convenient to Lake Phobane
FIND / South Africa Accommodation / KwaZulu Natal Accommodation / Zululand Accommodation / Eshowe Accommodation