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Your Ultimate Guide to Durban Safaris

A GUIDE TO DURBAN SAFARI EXPERIENCES

 

If you think Durban is all about sunny skies, surfing and bunny chowā€¦ think again.

Itā€™s a Big 5 safari destination with outstanding game reserves that compete with the best safari experiences in Greater Kruger. The fact that you can combine it with a fun-filled holiday in the ā€˜Playground Capital of South Africaā€ makes a Durban safari tour even more appealing.

 

IS DURBAN A BIG 5 SAFARI DESTINATION?

 

Durban is the capital of KwaZulu Natal (KZN) and the epicenter of fun and outdoor living in South Africa. The city itself is not a Big 5 safari destination but only a few hours away in every direction is a selection of some of the finest protected wildlife sanctuaries in the country.

The gorgeous province of KwaZulu Natal lies on the east coast of South Africa. KZN covers an area of some 92 000 square kilometres and stretches from a narrow belt in the south that flanks the warm Indian Ocean to the broad agricultural belt in the north and undulating central midlands that lie at the feet of the iconic Drakensberg Mountain.

The entire region is a sub-tropical wonderland thatā€™s covered in a tapestry of grand mountains, densely wooded gorges, winding waterways, dark rivers, thick tropical forests, vast savanna grasslands, dramatic coastal dunes and powder-white beaches. The rich fauna and flora of KwaZulu Natal is mesmirising.

With its lush vegetation and hot tropical weather, KwaZulu Natal is the ideal habitat for South Africaā€™s famous Big 5 and a vast array of animals and birds. Itā€™s not a matter of if you should book a Big 5 safari experience on a trip to Durban, but when?

 

IS THERE MALARIA IN DURBAN?

 

There is no malaria in the Durban central business district, the south and north coast immediately below and above Durban or the Natal Midlands. The major cities of South Africa are located in malaria-free areas. This includes Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.

Malaria is only endemic (found regularly) on the Maputaland coast. This region is located in the far northern part of KwaZulu Natal, between South Africa and Eswatini (Swaziland). The Maputaland coast stretches into the lower southern region of Mozambique.

Anti-malaria tablets are recommended in the intermediate risk areas of Kosi Bay, Sodwana Bay, Mkuze Game Reserve and St Lucia Lake (not the town of St Lucia or river mouth). The high-risk malaria period is in the rainy season between October and May.

Malaria is endemic in the Lowveld region of Mpumalanga and in Limpopo. This includes Kruger Park and the private game reserves in Greater Kruger. If you are travelling to the far north of South Africa after a holiday in Durban for a Big 5 safari experience, itā€™s highly recommended you take anti-malaria tablets.

 

PROUDLY KZN

 

KZN has a lot to boast about but itā€™s biggest brag is itā€™s home to not one but two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. We are talking about iSimangaliso Wetland Park and uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park. These two incredible natural wonders are wetlands of international importance for migratory species and designated as Ramsar sites.

A World Heritage Site is a landmark or area that is selected by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) for having cultural, historical, scientific or other form of significance. A World Heritage Site is legally protected by international treaties and judged to be important for the collective and preservative interests of humanity.

 

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

 

iSimangaliso Wetland Park is situated on the east coast of KZN, about 275 kilometres north of Durban. Itā€™s a comfortable 2&half drive from Durban through an incredibly scenic area. The world heritage site was previously known as Greater St Lucia Wetland Park and is South Africaā€™s third-largest protected wilderness area.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park spans 280 kilometres of coastline and stretches form the Mozambique border in the north to Mapelane, south of the Lake St Lucia estuary. The vast wetland is made up of approximately 3 280 square kilometres of natural ecosystems.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park incorporates:

  • Lake Sibhayi
  • StĀ Lucia Marine Reserve
  • StĀ Lucia Marine Sanctuary
  • Sodwana Bay National Park
  • Mapelane Nature Reserve
  • Maputaland Marine Reserve
  • Cape Vidal
  • Ozabeni
  • Mfabeni
  • Tewate Wilderness Area

The word ā€˜iSimangalisoā€™ means ā€˜a miracleā€™ or ā€˜something wondrousā€™ in the local Zulu language. The name originates from when a subject of the infamous King Shaka returned from a reconnaissance of the area and came back saying something to the effect that heā€™d seen ā€˜a miracleā€™.

Plans are under way for iSimangaliso Wetland Park to be integrated into a transfrontier park called Ponta do Ouro-Kosi Bay Transfrontier Conservation Area. The transfrontier park will ultimately straddle South Africa, Mozambique and Eswatini (Swaziland). The vast protected area will become part of the Greater Lubombo Transfrontier Conservation Area.

uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park

 

uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park covers an area of over 2 000 square kilometres and includes the Royal Natal National Park and parts of the iconic Drakensberg Mountains. This mountain range is the highest in southern Africa.

The vast ecosystem of uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park adjoins Sehlabathebe National Park in the Kingdom of Lesotho which forms part of the Maloti-Drakensberg Park.

uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in November 200 and is described by UNESCO as having ā€˜exceptional natural beauty in its soaring basaltic buttresses, incisive dramatic cutbacks and golden sandstone rampartsā€.

The Park gained World Heritage status because the siteā€™s diversity of habitats protects a high level of endemic and globally-threatened species, especially birds and plants.

The Park also contains many caves and rock-shelters and is renowned for having the largest and most-concentrated group of rock art paintings in Africa, south of the Sahara. Most of the upper regions of the iconic mountain range have been designated protected wilderness areas.

The uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park is also on the list of Wetlands of International Importance which was drawn up under the Ramsar Convention.

Adjacent to uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park is the Cathkin Estates Conservation and Wildlife Sanctuary. This protected area is 10 square kilometres of virgin grassland and is one of the largest privately-owned game reserves in the KwaZulu Natal Drakensberg region.

 

ROYAL NATIONAL PARK

 

Royal Natal National Park is a provincial park and covers part of the Drakensberg which is the highest mountain range in southern Africa. Royal Natal National Park falls within the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park.

The famous Park has been included into the Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Conservation Park. The conservation area is what is known as a Peace Park which is a dedicated eco-zone that spans the boundaries of more than one country. A Peace Park is set aside for the conservation of biodiversity, socio-economic development and the promotion of a culture of peace and cooperation between the countries.

The Maloti-Drakensberg Park was established in 2001 and incorporates the Sehlabathebe National Park in the Kingdom of Lesotho and the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park in KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. The following vital wilderness regions fall within the Maloti-Drakensberg Park:

 

KwaZulu Natal

Royal Natal National Park and uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park

 

Free State

Golden Gate Highlands National Park, QwaQwa National Park and Sterkfontein Dam Nature Reserve

 

Lesotho

Sehlabathebe National Park

Despite its name, Royal Natal National Park is not one of the official South African National Parks that is managed by governing body, SANParks. Rather, itā€™s a designated provincial park that is administered by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife.

The main features of Royal Natal National Park are:

 

The Amphitheatre

 

The Amphitheatre is a striking natural landmark found in Northern Drakensberg and is regarded as one of the most impressive cliff faces on the planet. The Amphitheatre is over 5 kilometres in length and its dramatic cliffs rise at least 1 220 metres along its entire length.

The cliff face of The Amphitheaters is roughly three times the size of the total combined area of all the cliff faces in Yosemiteā€™s famous El Capitan and more than ten times the size of El Capitanā€™s most famous south-western face.

 

Mont-Aux-Sources

 

Mont-aux-Sources is one of the highest points of the Drakensberg Mountains. It lies on the north-eastern fringe of the Drakensberg and most lies within the border of Lesotho. The mountain block is the source of both the Tugela and the Orange rivers.

Mont-aux-Sources is hugely popular among outdoor lovers and hikers. The strenuous hike to the top involves clambering up and down chain ladders but the view from the top overlooking Tugela Falls is spectacular.

 

Tugela Falls

 

Tugela Falls is regarded as the highest waterfall in Africa and the second highest waterfall in the world. Itā€™s a striking feature on the Tugela River, dropping 950 metres in five cascades. The mighty falls is so high that the upper reaches of Tugela Falls often freezes to form ice pillars.

The other name for Tugela Falls is Thukela Falls which means ā€˜suddenā€™ or ā€˜startlingā€™ in the local Zulu language. The source of waterfall is at Mont-aux-Sources which is the highest peak on a plateau of the Royal National Park.

A striking feature of Tugela Falls is it isnā€™t one sheet of water. From where it emerges from the heart of Mont-aux-Sources, the river twists and turns five times as it plummets down into The Amphitheatre.

The Sentinel trail takes hikers to the top of Mont-aux-Sources. The Slackpackers trail follows the Tugela River upstream through the Tugela Gorge for 7 kilometres. These trails are manageable for hikers of average fitness and you can spend three to four nights completing the hiking trail, sleeping overnight in rustic lodges along the way.

 

Distance from Durban to Royal Natal National Park

 

3 hours (280 kilometres) via N3 and R74

 

Where to stay in Royal Natal National Park

 

Thendele Camp

 

Thendele camp is located in one of the most stunning settings in South Africa and each chalet has a panoramic view of The Amphitheatre. The camp lies nestled in a lush valley below the sandstone cliffs of Dooley, among yellowwood forests and protea savannah. Visitors can often hear the rumble of boulders in the Tugela River after a summer thunderstorm.

Thendele Camp is the closest camp to the main Drakensberg escarpment which is often covered in snow during winter. Up to 18 magnificent waterfalls cascade down its sheer cliff face.

Thendele Camp is split into an upper and lower section, comprising of 26 self-catering chalets.

 

Didima Camp

 

Didima Camp falls within uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park and covers an area of some 32 000 hectares. It lies in the famous Didima Valley which is renowned for its fine San Rock art. Didima Camp is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers who have access to a variety of trails in uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park.

Travellers who want to take it more easy can drive up Mike’s Pass for a panoramic view of the Little Berg, near the head of Didima Gorge.

Didima Camp is themed to reflect the way of life of the San People who once inhabited the area and has an interpretive information centre that allows guests an insight into how the San people lived so long ago.

Guests have a choice of the following accommodation at Didima Camp:

  • 62 x 2-bed luxury chalets
  • 2 x 4-bed cabins
  • 2-bed honeymoon suite
  • 6-bed bungalow

 

GAME RESERVES CLOSE TO DURBAN

 

AMAKHOSI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

 

Amakhosi Private Game Reserve lies nestled in a valley of vast savanna grasslands, wetlands and mountains. Located on the banks of Mkuze River, this premier game reserve is located a scenic 2.5-hour drive away from the beautiful St Lucia Wetlands and Sodwana Bay north of Durban.

The private game reserve is ideally located close to the borders of Mozambique and Swaziland. Itā€™s regarded as a medium-risk malaria area and itā€™s recommended visitors take anti-malaria tablets.

Amakhosi Private Game Reserve is a Big 5 safari destination in KZN and guests enjoy daily sunrise and sunset game drives in an open safari vehicle with a professional ranger and tracker. Evenings are spent enjoying a 5-star plated bush dinner under the stars.

 

Distance from Durban to Amakhosi Private Game Reserve

 

4 hours 21 minutes (376 kilometres) via N2

 

Where to stay at Amakhosi Private Game Reserve

 

Guests stay at a luxury safari lodge at Amakhosi Private Game Reserve.

  • 6 deluxe thatched chalets
  • 2 luxurious honeymoon suites
  • 1 exclusive private residence available on an exclusive-use basis

The dƩcor is contemporary African-chic and each chalet is positioned carefully to ensure guests enjoy their privacy. The open-plan style chalets open up onto a private viewing deck and a few have their own personal plunge pool.

 

BAYETE ZULU GAME RESERVE

 

Bayete Zulu Game Reserve is located in the heart of the 22 000-hectare Manyoni Concession. Bayete is the greeting used for esteemed members of the Zulu royal house and chiefs and perfectly describes the royal welcome and treatment you get while staying at Bayete Zulu Game Reserve.

The private game reserve forms part of a bigger conservation area and is home to the Big 5. This includes elephant, buffalo, rhino, leopard and lion. The Manyoni Concession is made up of a collection of private safari establishments and through dedicated conservation and wildlife management programmes, the Concession is now one of the most densely-stocked and ecologically-balanced in KwaZulu Natal.

Guests enjoy daily morning and evening game drives but a highlight of a holiday at Bayete Zulu is the chance to interact with majestic elephants. Youā€™ll meet Rambo, Rachel and Jabulani who are rescued and habituated elephants and a knowledgeable ranger will spend time enthralling you with fascinating facts about elephants. Under careful supervision, guests are allowed to touch the elephants and feed them.

Bookings are essential for elephant interactions at Bayete Zulu Game Reserve.

 

Distance from Durban to Bayete Zulu Game Reserve

 

3 hours 12 minutes (294 kilometres) via N2

 

Where to stay at Bayete Zulu Game Reserve

 

Guests have the choice of the following accommodation at Bayete Zulu:

 

Luxury chalets

 

3 stylishly-decorated chalets with a contemporary-rustic charm; enjoy an intimate and exclusive stay with a panoramic view over the campā€™s permanent waterhole.

 

Bayete Homestead

 

Self-catering accommodation in blissful surrounds. Guests enjoy daily morning and evening game drives in an open vehicle with a professional ranger.

 

Little Bayete

 

A more intimate and exclusive self-catering bush retreat that caters for groups of up to 8 people. The smaller homestead has 4 well-appointed ensuite rooms and deluxe facilities for a wonderful self-catering holiday at Bayete Zulu.

Guests enjoy daily morning and evening game drives in an open safari vehicle with a professional ranger. Children of all ages are welcome to stay at Little Bayete.

 

BONAMANZI GAME PARK

 

Bonamanzi Game Reserve is a 4 000-hectare privately-owned reserve that lies nestled on the Hluhluwe River. It falls within an incredible wilderness region that was proclaimed a World Natural Heritage Site in 1995 in recognition of its outstanding biodiversity.

The area is characterised by sweeping savanna grasslands, undulating sand forests and lush wetlands. The rich biodiversity of the region makes Bonamanzi Game Reserve one of the best birding destinations in southern Africa.

Bonamanzi is the local Zulu word for ā€˜look the waterā€™.Ā  The game reserve lies in a high rainfall area and the abundant supply of water from Hluhluwe River and the reserveā€™s own Lalapanzi Dam draw a wonderful crowd of wildlife and birds to the area.

Bonamanzi is a Big 5 safari destination in KwaZulu Natal and guests can either self-drive in their own vehicles in limited areas or go on daily game drives in open safari vehicles with a professional ranger and tracker. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended for self-drives, particularly in the rainy season.

A much-loved thing to do at Bonamanzi Game Reserve is an interactive bush experience. Join a professional, armed ranger for a gorgeous walk in the bush to learn more about the reserveā€™s rich fauna and flora. There is an option to book an unguided bush walk on well-maintained bush trails.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a short 30-minute drive from Bonamanzi Game Reserve. The magnificent wetland ecosystem has been proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site to celebrate its outstanding biodiversity.

 

Distance from Durban to Bonamanzi Game Reserve

 

2 hours 41 minutes (254 kilometres) via N2

 

Where to stay at Bonamanzi Game Reserve

 

Bayete Zulu offers comfortable self-catering accommodation in well-appointed chalets with breathtaking views of the reserveā€™s vast savanna grasslands and Lalapanzi Dam.

Guests have the choice of:

  • Lalapanzi Camp: 3-star chalets and luxury chalets overlooking the Lalapanzi Dam
  • Dinizulu Camp: luxury self-catering suites and main lodge, sleeps up to 12 guests
  • Tree Houses: rustic 2- and 4-sleeper self-catering tree houses
  • Tree Lodge: self-catering accommodation in wooden chalets
  • Game Lodge: self-catering family accommodation, sleeps up to 10 guests in 5 ensuite bedrooms
  • Nyala Lodge: 9 air-conditioned twin beds, sleeping up to 18 guests
  • Bundu Rustic Camp: 12 units with a separate 2-bedroom cottage
  • Camping: beautifully-appointed camping sites

 

GIANTā€™S CASTLE GAME RESERVE

 

Giantā€™s Castle Game Reserve is home to the mighty eland as well as the rare bearded vulture. Itā€™s located in the Central Drakensberg region and falls within the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site.

Giants Castle camp is positioned on a plateau overlooking the deep valleys running down from the face of the High Drakensberg. Itā€™s a popular weekend destination for nature lovers, walkers, ramblers, hikers and enthusiastic mountain climbers.

Giants Castle’s superb rock art is one of its many unique attractions as well as the Ā popular vulture restaurant which is open during winter for anyone wishing to observe the rare bearded vulture and other endangered species feeding.

A visit to the Main Caves Museum at Giants Castle is highly recommended for an intriguing view of the past way of life of the San people.

 

Distance from Durban to Giantā€™s Castle Game Reserve

 

2 hours (200 kilometres) via N3

 

Where to stay at Giantā€™s Castle Game Reserve

 

Guests have a choice of 2-, 4- and 6-bed self-catering chalets at the main camp at Giantā€™s Castle.

Although all accommodation is fully-equipped for self-catering, you have the option of eating out at Izimbali restaurantĀ  on the property and enjoy aĀ  few drinks at the bar.

The camp shop is stocked with curios as well as a range of supplies commonly found useful.

 

HLUHLUWE-IMFOLOZI GAME RESERVE

 

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HIP) was formerly known as Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve. Itā€™s one of the oldest proclaimed nature reserves in Africa and is home to the Big 5. The protected wilderness area is a scenic 2.5-hour drive from Durban, travelling north up towards the Maputaland coast.

Itā€™s the only state-run conservation area in KwaZulu Natal where you find all five of the Big 5. Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park has the largest population of white rhino in the world.

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park covers an area of some 960 square kilometres (96 000 hectares) and is named after the hilly Hluhluwe region and Umfolozi River which runs through the region.

The northern section is known as the Hluhluwe side and the southern section is known as the Imfolozi/Umfolozi side. The Imfolozi section is 72 000 hectares in size and the Hluhluwe side is 24 000 hectares in size.

Hluhluwe is a region renowned for its hilly topography where altitudes range from 80 to 540 metres above sea level. The Park lies between the two Umfolozi Rivers where they divide into the Mfolozi ā€˜emnyama; (Black Umfolozi) to the north and the Mfolozi ā€˜emhlopheā€™ (White Umfolozi) to the south.

The topography of the Umfolozi section of the Park ranges from the low-lying plains that flank the Umfolozi River to steep countryside with wide and deep valleys. The vast savanna grasslands are punctuated with acacia savanna and thick woodlands.

 

Distance from Durban to Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

 

2 hours 36 minutes (237 kilometres) via N2

 

Where to stay at Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

 

Guests have a wide choice of accommodation in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, ranging from rustic bushveld camps to luxury lodges.

The following is listed starting with accommodation in the northern Hluhluwe side to the southern iMfolozi side.

  • Mtwazi Lodge
  • Hilltop Camp
  • Muntulu Lodge
  • Munyawaneni Lodge
  • Masinda Lodge
  • Nselweni Lodge
  • Hlathikhulu Lodge
  • Sontuli Camp
  • Gqoyeni Lodge
  • Mpila Camp

 

MANYONI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

 

Manyoni Private Game Reserve is one of the largest privately-owned reserves in Kwazulu-Natal. This 23 000-hectare reserve was created when 17 dedicated landowners dropped their fences in 2004 to create one contiguous protected area for our wildlife.

The area was identified as the potential release site for the WWF Black Rhino Range Expansion Project and this was a driving factor behind the establishment of Manyoni Private Game Reserve. In 2005, the newly-established reserve was confirmed as a release site by the WWF and a founder population of black rhino were released into their new home.

In 2009, Manyoni Game Reserve was formally proclaimed a protected nature reserve under the Protected Areas Act. Since then, the game reserve has reintroduced lions to the area as well as the endangered cheetahs and wild dog.

Today, Monyani Game Reserve is a magical Big 5 destination in KwaZulu Natal and renowned for its strong population of black rhino.

 

Distance from Durban to Manyoni Private Game Reserve

 

3 hours (300 kilometres) via N2

 

Where to stay at Manyoni Private Game Reserve

 

Mavela Game Lodge

 

Mavela Game Lodge offers guests an authentic but luxury camping experience at an all-inclusive rate.

 

Rhino Sands Safari Camp

 

Rhino Sands Safari Camp is an eco-friendly tented camp that offers guests an authentic and exclusive camping experience in pristine bushveld surrounds.

 

African Spirit Game Lodge

 

African Spirit Game Lodge is attracts photographers, birders and bush lovers from around the world and offers semi-luxury accommodation for local and foreign travellers.

 

MKUZE FALLS GAME RESERVE

 

Mkuze Falls Game Reserve lies in the heart of Zululand. Itā€™s home to the Big 5 which includes elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion and leopard as well as an array of antelope. Mkuze Falls Game Reserve is a birderā€™s paradise with 430 recorded bird species.

Experience the unique richness that this peaceful part of Africa has to offer. It is a place of pure tastes and simple delights, celebrating the thrill of nature. This is the place with the sound and beauty of water falling seeps into your soul.

Things to do at Mkuze Falls Game Reserve include daily sunrise and sunset game drives in an open safari vehicle with a professional ranger and tracker, glorious bush walks, decadent pampering at the famous Mkuze Falls Spa and gorgeous starlit dinners around a fire at the outdoor boma.

 

Distance from Durban to Mkuze Falls Game Reserve

 

4 hours (367,5 kilometres) via N2

 

Where to stay at Mkuze Falls Game Reserve

 

Mkuze Falls Lodge

 

The luxury safari lodge at Mkuze Falls Game Reserve is located on the northern bank of the Mkuze River, overlooking the magical Mkuze waterfall. The safari lodge has 9 luxury thatched chalets and one deluxe Safari Suite, sleeping up to 18 guests.

Luxury features include private plunge pools and an outside shower with panoramic views of the pristine bushveld. Spend time on your wooden deck and watch the animal world pass by.

A sparkling pool at the main lodge and starlit dinners around a roaring fire at the outdoor boma are the perfect way to end off a day at Mkuze Falls Lodge.

 

NAMBITI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

 

Nambiti Private Game Reserve is located about 20 kilometres from Ladysmith in the heart of the Natal Midlands. Itā€™s renowned for its spectacular scenery with vast savanna grasslands, acacia woodlands, undulating hills and cascading waterfalls.

The private game reserve was established in 1999 when a cattle and maize farm was rehabilitated and stocked with game that were re-introduced to the area after a long absence. Nambiti is home to the Big 5 although the leopard that wander through the reserve are shy and elusive. The game reserve has a carrying capacity for an abundance of wild animals and carries more game per hectare than any other private game reserve in KZN.

 

Distance from Durban to Nambiti Private Game Reserve

 

3 hours (266 kilometres) via N3

 

Where to stay at Nambiti Private Game Reserve

 

Cheetah Ridge Lodge

 

Fully-catered or self-catering accommodation, sleeping up to 24 guests; 1 family suite and 10 free-standing chalets.

 

Nambiti House

 

Self-catering accommodation in a house available on an exclusive-use basis, sleeping up to 10 guests in 5 ensuite bedrooms.

 

Elephant Rock Lodge

 

Elephant Rock Lodge is a charming boutique safari lodge overlooking a waterhole, set high on the sides of a hill. The luxury safari lodge offers fully-catered accommodation for up to 10 guests.

 

Esiweni Safari Lodge

 

Fully-catered luxury accommodation with beautiful suites situated on a unique cliff-top position with dramatic views of the Sundays River and pristine bushveld.

 

Lions Valley Lodge

 

Fully-catered accommodation in African-themed suites.

 

Nambiti Hills Private Game Lodge

 

Fully-catered Ā 5-star accommodation in the heart of Nambiti Private Game Reserve.

 

Nambiti Plains Lodge

 

Fully-catered luxury accommodation situated in a lush indigenous forest on the edge of a permanent waterhole.

 

Ndaka Safari Lodge

 

Fully-catered luxury tented accommodation in 6 permanent safari tents, with panoramic vies of the Nambiti Plain.

 

Springbok Lodge

 

Fully-catered luxury accommodation in tented suites.

 

Umzolozolo Private Safari Lodge

 

Fully-catered 5-star accommodation in ensuite safari-themed suites.

PAKAMISA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

 

PakamisaĀ  means ā€˜to lift upā€™ in the local Zulu language and your spirits will definitely be raised and soar after a stay at Pakamisa Private Game Reserve. The private reserve is also home to a magnificent collection of Arabian horses that have been superbly trained by the owner.

Pakamisa Private Game Reserve has no big cats and is located in a malaria-free area. Itā€™s the perfect safari destination for horseback safaris and guided bush walks which are not usually available in Big 5 safari destinations.

 

Distance from Durban to Pakamisa Private Game Reserve

 

3 hours 49 min (371 kilometres) via N2

 

Where to stay at Pakamisa Private Game Reserve

 

Pakamisa is a private, exclusive reserve open to residential guests only. Majestically perched on the high plateau of the Pakamisa Mountain, the lodge has breath-taking views of the evergreen valleys and plains of the Pongola River to the east and the rolling hills of natural bush of the Reserve in the west.

Limited to a maximum of 16 guests, the lodge offers a unique Spanish architecture blended with the finest African ambience. The 8-meter high ceilings create a pleasant, cool atmosphere.

The impressive Main House, with its eclectic mix of African and European art and antiques, offers an ideal place for quiet relaxation or pre-dinner socialising; alternatively slip into the intimate atmosphere of the Hunterā€™s Bar for a cocktail. The extensive library contains many treasures to delight the most discerning bibliophile in a variety of languages.

 

BEYOND PHINDA GAME RESERVE

 

&Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve encompasses an impressive 28 555 hectares (70 560 acres) of protected wildlife land in KwaZulu-Natal. Showcasing one of the continentā€™s finest game viewing experiences, Phinda is home to the Big 5, an abundance of plains game and over 436 recorded bird species.

The private reserve is particularly well known for close-up sightings of the elegant yet elusive cheetah, as well as the rare black rhino. The ecology of the reserve is a rich tapestry of woodland, grassland, wetland and forest, interspersed with mountain ranges, rivers, marshes and pans.

Guests at Phinda experience interpretive game drives in open 4Ɨ4 safari vehicles led by professionally trained &Beyond rangers and Zulu trackers as well as a wide range of optional adventures in the bush and on the beach.

 

Distance from Durban to &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve

 

3 hours 20 minutes (297 kilometres) via N2

 

Where to stay at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve

 

The private game reserve boasts 6Ā  magnificent luxury safari lodges, each with its own individual charm and luxurious character.

  • Mountain Lodge
  • Rock Lodge
  • Forest Lodge
  • Vlei Lodge
  • Zuka Lodge
  • Phinda Homestead

 

PONGOLA GAME RESERVE

 

Pongola Game Reserve combines the scenic variety of bushveld, mountains, major water bodies and a range of leisure activities that make the best of all the natural features. The abundance of space and an ecological approach to a “light footprint” are key ingredients of the special experience at Pongola Game Reserve in northern KwaZulu Natal.

The private reserve extends over part of the original area that was declared proclaimed a protected game reserve by then-president of the Transvaal Republic Paul Kruger in 1894. The original reserve has since been re-proclaimed as the Pongola Nature Reserve which is the present Pongola Game Reserve’s immediate neighbour.

The business is owned and managed by the Landman family whose ancestors arrived in the Cape in 1744.

The broad Pongola River meanders through the centre of the reserve before entering the man-made 13 276 hectare lake. It provides a leisure environment unique for a South African bushveld destination. Safari cruises, canoe adventures, birding and tiger fishing are among the main activities.

Pongola Game Reserve is home to four of the Big 5, with only lion missing from the magical reserve. Itā€™s also a birderā€™s with 350 recorded bird species. One popular activity that draws wildlife lovers to Pongola Game Reserve is tracking rhino on foot.

 

Distance from Durban to Pongola Game Reserve

 

2.5 hours (290 kilometres) via N2

 

Where to stay at Pongola Game Reserve

 

Pongola Game Reserve offers visitors a choice of fully-catered and self-catering accommodation.

 

Mvubu River Lodge

 

Fully-catered accommodation at an African-themed lodge thatā€™s situated in a unique position on a ridge overlooking the Pongola River commands panoramic views of the reserve.

 

Nkwazi Lake Lodge

 

Nkwazi Lake Lodge offers fully-catered accommodation for up to 30 guests in 11 ensuite thatched chalets and 2 family chalets. All chalets are tastefully furnished and have air conditioning, mini bar fridges, tea and coffee facilities and private verandas.

 

Sondaba Bush Lodge

 

Self-catering accommodation for up to 12 guess in 6 A-framed thatched chalets. Reed-lined ensuite bathroom add to the rustic appeal.

 

Inyati Lodge

 

Self-catering accommodation for up to 6 guests in 3 thatched ensuite chalets that overlook the reserve, river or waterhole.

 

Mpalane Fishing Lodge

 

Self-catering accommodation located less than 10 kilometres for the main gate into Pongola Game Reserve. The fishing lodge overlooks the Pongola River as it enters the Pongolapoort Dam and is the perfect destination for avid fisherman.

 

Mholozi Bush Lodge

 

Self-catering accommodation in a 16-bed camp.

 

TEMBE ELEPHANT PARK

 

Tembe Elephant Park offers intimate encounters with some of the largest elephants in Africa. The 300 square kilometre private reserve is located in northern KZN, close to the border of Mozambique. Itā€™s the ancestral home of the Tembe tribe who own and co-manage both Tembe Elephant Park and Tembe Elephant Lodge.

Writer, wildlife vet and elephant expert Dr Johan Marais believes that the largest elephants in the world can be found in the Tembe National Elephant Park.

The largest of these were Isilo, Mkadebona and Siqualo. Isilo, the biggest of them all, died in 2015 of natural causes and is thought to have been about 50 years old, weighed 7 metric tons and stood 3.2 metres off the ground. Isiloā€™s tusks were about 2.5 metres long and weighed more than 60 kilograms. Visit Tembe Elephant Park for the opportunity to see the next generation of magnificent Tembe tuskers.

The Tembe Tusker Foundation was established to raise funds to extend the reserve to boost the elephant carrying capacity of Tembe Elephant Park which is one of the most valuable reservoirs of the Big Tusker gene pool in Africa.

 

Distance from Durban to Tembe Elephant Park

 

4 hours 30 minutes (400 kilometres) via N2 and R22

 

Where to stay at Tembe Elephant Park

 

Tembe Elephant Lodge

 

Tembe offers visitors one of the best value-for-money safari experiences in South Africa. Guests stay in classic safari tents that are carefully positioned for privacy and seclusion. Each tented suite has a private patio with a panoramic view of the elephant park.

A lovely feature is each tented suite has its own outdoor shower and thereā€™s a dedicated spa tent for private pamper sessions. The public dining and reception areas are located under magnificent soaring thatch and are constructed using natural, sustainably sourced material. Everything has been done to minimise impact on the environment and blend in with the surrounding forest.

 

THANDA SAFARI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

 

Thanda Safari Private Game Reserve is a Big 5 safari destination located north of Durban, on the coast above Richardā€™s Bay. The magical reserve offers guests and incredible wilderness experience coupled with a deep commitment to the regionā€™s Zulu culture and environmental conservation. Thanda means ā€˜loveā€™ in the language of the Zulu people.

Thanda Safari has three unique safari lodges located in scenic spots in the 14 000hectare reserve. The game reserve was established in partnership with the neighbouring community and much-needed revenue from the private game reserve operations is used to support the local people.

 

Distance from Durban to Thanda Safari Private Game Reserve

 

3 hours (280 kilometres) via N2

 

Where to stay at Thanda Safari Private Game Reserve

 

Thanda Safari Lodge is a multiple winner of the Worldā€™s Leading Luxury Lodge.

 

Thanda Safari Lodge

 

Thanda Safari Lodgeā€™s has 9 beautiful bush suites that are self-contained for absolute privacy. Shaped like a traditional Zulu homestead, the 220mĀ² suites offer luxury living and panoramic views over the reserve. Relax on your expansive deck and experience an African sunset. Take a dip in your plunge pool. Dine in your private boma. Enjoy warm afternoons on the circular daybed in your thatched outdoor sala.

 

Thanda Tented Camp

 

Thanda Tented Camp offers an authentic tented safari adventure in the bush. The eco-friendly safari camp has 14 luxury safari tents, each with a private sun deck and en-suite bathroom. Jabula (Happiness) Tent is popular with wedding couples and honeymooners. Solar-powered electricity is provided in the camp for a few hours each day.

 

Villa iZulu

 

Villa iZulu was voted World’s Leading Luxury Private Villa at the World Travel Awards. This magnificent Afro-chic homestead includes a heated swimming pool, a traditional boma and bonfire area, wine cellar, library, private business area, games room and a vast viewing deck overlooking a waterhole.

Villa iZulu is the ultimate safari hideaway for guests who want total privacy or for families, friends and meetings. Villa iZulu has its own helicopter pad and separate accommodation for child-minders and VIP security officers. The homestead was designed and created for Thanda Safariā€™s owners, Christin and Dan Olofsson.

 

THULA THULA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

 

Thula Thula is a family owned and operated private game lodge situated in the heart of Zululand. The 4 500-hectare reserve was established in 1911 and is one of the oldest private game reserves in South Africa. Thula Thula is home to 4 of the Big 5 with no lions on the property.

Thula Thula is located on land that was once the private hunting grounds of King Shaka, founder of the Zulu Empire. The first historic meeting between Shaka and his father (Senzangakhona), which set the stage for the creation of the Zulu nation, took place at the Nseleni River at Thula Thula.

The Zulu name Thula Thula literally means ā€˜peace and tranquilityā€™. This exceptional and well-known reserve is located on the east coast of South Africa, north of Durban and above and inland of Richardā€™s Bay.

Thula Thula was also the home of late bestselling author and conservationist Lawrence Anthony, who passed away in March 2012.Ā  His book, The Elephant Whisperer relates the story of the rescue of the Thula Thula elephants and the special relationship he had with the original herd. Thula Thula is run by his wife, Francoise Malby Anthony, who carries on the legacy of Anthony Lawrence.

 

Distance from Durban to Thula Thula Private Game Reserve

 

2 hours 20 minutes (190 kilometres) via N2

 

Where to stay at Thula Thula Private Game Reserve

 

Elephant Safari Lodge

 

The safari lodge on Thula Thula offers luxury accommodation in individual chalets that are stylishly decorated in an Africa-chic colonial theme. Elephant Safari Lodge combines the luxury of a 5-star safari experience with incredible daily game drives in gorgeous bushveld surrounds.

Elephant Safari Lodge offers an all-inclusive package that includes luxury accommodation, gourmet meals, morning and evening game drives and a complimentary tea and coffee station.

 

BOOK A BIG 5 DURBAN TOUR WITH MOAFRIKA TOURS

 

MoAfrika Tours is a leading tour operator based in Johannesburg, offering a diverse selection of day tours and long-stay tours to destinations in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia and Mozambique.

Your safety and well-being are our main priority. We are here to help any time, any day with booking extra activities, sorting out any problems, offering advice on making your trip extra special and just being there for you if you need to talk to someone.

 

We know touring, we know Africa and weā€™re looking forward to getting to know you.

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