The Mfolozi (also written Umfolozi or uMfolozi) is a river in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, formed by the confluence of the Black and White Umfolozi Rivers near the southeastern boundary of the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve. The river is meandering in character, with a catchment area of approximately 11,068 square kilometres. Near its mouth, the river is around 38 metres wide, with a gentle slope gradient of 0.36 m/km and a sandy bed with an average sediment diameter of 0.35 mm. The river flows eastward to meet the St. Lucia estuary within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park in northern KwaZulu-Natal.

Paddlers considering the Mfolozi should be aware of serious safety and regulatory constraints. The river and its estuary fall within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and the entire area — including the river mouth — is habitat for both crocodiles and hippos. These animals are present throughout the river system and estuary, making paddling genuinely hazardous. Reports indicate that private kayaks are not permitted on the estuary, and anyone considering any form of boating in the area should contact iSimangaliso Wetland Park authorities directly to confirm current regulations, approved motor requirements, and boat registration requirements before planning a trip. Suitable launch points are also reported to be limited or unclear.

Given the combination of wildlife hazards and apparent restrictions on private craft within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, paddlers should treat this as a restricted waterway and seek explicit permission and guidance from park management before attempting any paddle on the lower Mfolozi or its estuary.