safari holidays kzn

THE 10 BEST KwaZulu-Natal Safaris

Safaris in kwazulu-natal.

• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Hiking & Camping Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Hluhluwe - iMfolozi Park Wilderness Area
• Tala Private Game Reserve
• African Sun Safaris
• Howick Falls
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Hippo and Croc Boat Cruise in Saint Lucia with Pick-up

2. Half Day Private Tour in iSimangaliso Wetland Park

3. Half Day Safari Tour from Durban

4. Hluhluwe and Imfolozi Safari Day Tour from Richards Bay

5. Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park Full Day Big 5 Safari Tour

6. Hluhluwe/iMfolozi Game Reserve Full Day Game Drive

7. iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Full Day Tour

8. Hluhluwe Imfolozi Safari & St Lucia Boat Safari Day Tour from Durban

9. Hluhluwe Game Drive - Half day

10. Safari & PheZulu Village Day Tour from Durban

11. Big 5 Luxury Safari at Manyoni Private Game Reserve + Binoculars

12. Hluhluwe Imfolozi Big 5 Reserve day Safari from Durban

13. Full day - Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve 1 Day Tour From Durban

14. Full Day Tour Sani Pass & Lesotho Tour From Durban in a 4 x 4

15. St Lucia Boat Safari Day Tour from Richards Bay

16. Full Day Drakensberg and Nelson Mandela Capture Site from Durban

17. Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park And Isimangaliso Wetlands Park .st Lucia

18. Full Day Isimangaliso Wetlands Park -Croc & Hippo &Game Fr Durban

19. Durban Shore Excursion: Private Small Group Tala Game Reserve

20. Tala Mini Day Safari - Durban

21. Full Day Durban & Phezulu Safari Park Private Tour from Durban

22. Drakensberg and Nelson Mandela Capture Site Full-Day Private Tour

23. 3 Days Hluhluwe Game Reserve & Isimangaliso Wetlands from Durban

24. Mkuze (uMkhuze) Fig Forest Walk

25. Hluhluwe Game Drive - Full day with lunch

26. Safari Half-Day - Tour of Tala Game Reserve & Phezulu Centre from Durban

27. Mkuze (uMkhuze) Game Drive - Half day

28. Full day Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso Wetland Safari

29. Hluhluwe Game Reserve Safari from Durban

30. Hluhluwe Safari & Emdoneni Wild Cat Project Day Tour from Durban

What travelers are saying.

• Hippo and Croc Boat Cruise in Saint Lucia with Pick-up
• Half Day Safari Tour from Durban
• Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park Full Day Big 5 Safari Tour
• Hluhluwe and Imfolozi Safari Day Tour from Richards Bay
• Half Day Private Tour in iSimangaliso Wetland Park
• Heritage Day Tours & Safaris
• EuroZulu Guided Tours & Safaris
• Tim Brown Tours - Durban Safaris and Durban Tours
• Zulu Safaris
• Shoreline Hippo and Croc Cruises
• Safaris for Africa
• Durban Day Safaris
• Tiger Hunters Tours & Safaris - Day Adventures

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KwaZulu-Natal Safari Accommodation

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Accommodation type, kwazulu-natal, in kwazulu-natal.

• About KwaZulu-Natal
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Safari Accommodation in KwaZulu-Natal

Falaza Game Park

Falaza is 30-bed luxury tented camp In a Private game reserve. The entire camp is set in the Sand Forest with free standing luxury tents. The main camp...

• Swimming Pool
• Braai/Barbecue
• On-site Parking

Shayamoya Tiger Fishing & Game Lodge

Shayamoya is a true gem offering genuine hospitality, unique settings with stunning panoramic views across the Pongolapoort Lake (also known as Jozini)...

Nkwazi Lake Lodge

Nkwazi Lake Lodge is situated within the Pongola Game Reserve South in Northern Zululand. Nkwazi is set on a hillside overlooking the Pongola River and...

Spion Kop Lodge

SPION KOP LODGE : (KwaZulu Natal) tranquil and relaxing with a choice of activities, has been transformed into a beautiful 4 Star Lodge, offering an Out...

Buffalo Hills

Buffalo Hills is situated in the 23000 hectares Manyoni Private Game Reserve. Our home away from home lodge is made up of five luxury open plan rooms of...

Thula Thula Private Game Reserve & Safari Lod...

Only 2 hours North from Durban, and 45 minutes from Richards Bay, in a malaria free area,Thula Thula, the oldest private game reserve in Kwazulu Natal,...

Forest Villas

Welcome to Forest Villas, an exquisite sanctuary nestled in the charming town of St Lucia, within the magnificent iSimangaliso World Heritage...

Rhino River Lodge

Our small and exclusive lodge, set in the big 5 Zululand Rhino Reserve,offers a unique and personalised bush experience; enjoy game drives, guided walks,...

Thonga Beach Lodge

Elephant Rock Safari Lodge

Pakamisa Private Game Reserve & Lodge

Pakamisa Private Game Reserve and Lodge is a unique new holiday resort, majestically positioned on top of the Pakamisa Mountain, counts to the top...

Kosi Forest Lodge

Situated in Kosi Bay Nature Reserve, the 16 bedded luxury Kosi Forest Lodge allows guests the unique opportunity of canoeing the Kosi Lake system. Other...

Leopard Mountain Safari Lodge

A 5 Star Multiple Award winning, Big 5, Family Run, Safari Lodge, set within the 58 000 acre Manyoni Private Game Reserve offering peace and tranquillity...

Nambiti Hills

The Nambiti Hills Private Game Lodge offers intimate and luxurious accommodation in the midst of the spectacular African beauty of the Nambiti Game...

Zululand Lodge

Zululand Lodge is a privately owned tented camp on the 800 hectare uKuwela wildlife conservancy located in the heart of the Elephant Coast, northern...

Mavela Game Lodge

Mavela Game Lodge is nestled in the heart of the magnificent Big 5 Manyoni Private Game Reserve, near Mkuze, in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. A unique...

Mkuze Falls Private Game Reserve

Big Five Private Game Reserve is a five star game lodge and luxury tented lodge. Situated between the Kruger National Park and the Zululand Coast, the...

Nambiti Plains Private Game Lodge

Welcome to Nambiti Reserve, an exclusive Big Five bush retreat nestled in the Malaria Free Nambiti Game Reserve, KwaZulu Natal. Immerse yourself in the...

Amakhosi Safari Lodge

Amakhosi Safari Lodge is ideally situated in the heart of Northern Zululand, in KwaZulu-Natal. The lodge is easily accessible by way of air charter or...

St Lucia Safari Lodge

St Lucia Safari Lodge has the best of both worlds; it is on the main road of town, yet a few minutes’ drive from the wonders of the wetlands. St Lucia...

If you are looking for KwaZulu-Natal holiday accommodation , SafariNow has a selection of Self-catering , Bed and Breakfast , Guest House holiday accommodation in KwaZulu-Natal and surrounds. With 3581 listings in KwaZulu-Natal, our handy KwaZulu-Natal map search and great low prices, it's easy to book the perfect holiday accommodation for your KwaZulu-Natal visit.

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Kwazulu - Natal

Sub regions inside

Broader region.

KwaZulu Natal is the one place where you can see rhinos and whales in just one day. Durban is a sunny city with great beaches, incredible marine life and some of the best Indian cuisine, whilst in the north-eastern corner of the province travellers are afforded phenomenal Big Five safari in Africa's oldest proclaimed game reserve or in one of the several surrounding privately owned reserves. The iSimangaliso Wetland Park is home to Africa's largest estuary and more than 2 000 hippos and crocodiles, as well as large flocks of pelicans, flamingos and a variety of fish species. KwaZulu Natal boasts pristine Indian Ocean beaches, incredible diving sites, seasonal sightings of whales and dolphins, cultural experiences and battlefields.

April to September (early autumn through winter and into spring) is the loveliest time of the year to visit. Summer – November to early March – can be very hot and humid. Game viewing is better in late June, July and August when the grass tends to be shorter and animals congregate around waterholes. Diving is great all year round.

Traveller tip: It can get scorching hot between November and February, so make sure you have enough fluid with you to prevent dehydration.

Keen to see rhinos and whales on the same day? Then head to KwaZulu-Natal’s northeastern corner – absolute perfection for those looking for a combination of a beach and bush safari. This region not only boasts Africa’s oldest proclaimed game reserve, the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, where you will find the Big Five, but also the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, an internationally renowned UNESCO World Heritage site.

iSimangaliso, meaning ‘wonder’  or ‘miracle’ in Zulu, contains eight ecosystems, including lakes, swamp forests, coral reefs, Africa’s largest estuary and 220km of gorgeous Indian Ocean beaches. And it’s the clear, warm water off these beaches that has watersport aficionados flocking here in droves. Sodwana Bay and Mabibi in particular are popular with divers as the diving is great all year round and the water temperature seldom dips below 19°C, even in winter. Dolphins play in the surf (giving this stretch of coast the name Dolphin Coast) while whales make their seasonal migration to Mozambique.

While you may well choose to simply relax at times, we’re pretty sure some of the activities on offer will entice you to participate. Think kayaking, snorkeling, kite surfing or horse riding on the beach. Sip a cocktail while soaking up the atmosphere from a double-decker ferry on Lake St Lucia or go on game drives (during the day or at night) at one of the many reserves dotted around.

In fact, we’d encourage you to check out the game parks and reserves here. (Not that we don’t love the Kruger!) The weather is milder than further north, the grass is literally greener and you can see all the game you want, including the Big Five. At Phinda Private Game Reserve, for example, you can go on game drives, join a walking safari or scuba dive, go on a river cruise or have the ultimate cultural encounter in the local Zulu community – all in the space of 24 hours.

Interested in history? You’re close to the battlefields of both the Anglo-Boer and the Anglo-Zulu wars. Go on a guided tour of the battlefields: the chilling accounts of the battles of Rorke's Drift and Isandlwana will help you gain a deeper insight into the rich history of the area.

Must  see: Take a ‘hippo and croc’ sunset cruise on Lake St Lucia where hippos are so plentiful they look like boulders. And look out for the wide variety of bird life including fish eagles, kingfishers and herons.

Apr 12, 2024

Anja is very attentive and patient.

Apr 11, 2024

Shann is a great professional

Shann immediately demonstrated pleasant professionalism, competence, experience and patience. She advised and accompanied me in organizing the trip. She listened to all my needs and the suggestions were very fruitful for me. he was very kind and always available even during the holidays. thank you Shann

It was easy

It was easy, it all worked as planned, our expectations were exceeded. Anja was easy to communicate with through Whatsapp and always responded promptly to any questions.

Apr 10, 2024

She made it so easy to book

She made it so easy to book - Leigh-Ann was great to deal with . She made it so easy and worked with the dates I gave her . I appreciate it so much and when I book my next safari - I hope to have the same experience - which was awesome !!!!

Botswana Experience

Anja, our agent, was very kind and helpful all the time to organize the perfect trip. She did it quickly and efficiently. The amount of days we spent in every place was perfect to really enjoy the hotels and the different activities they proposed (in general the hotels are very nice but we don’t have the time to really experience the place but here we did). Also the selections of hotels was very very nice. Nice infrastructure, excellent service (very professional) and outstanding places to visit (all the parks were great). We had a wonderful experience with the company in Botswana.

Thank you Heleen for great service and…

Thank you Heleen for great service and always very helpful with all the changes we made. highly recommended

Keith was extremely helpful during the…

Keith was extremely helpful during the booking process. He is the only reason I continued the booking process with your firm. There were issues with your website among other things that had me feeling uncomfortable. Keith has great energy which eased my concerns. I feel the package Keith put together is great and I expect to have a wonderful trip.

Apr 9, 2024

Creating a Trip of a Lifetime

Shann Shaw was extremely patient and very helpful with getting a trip of a lifetime put together. Thank you so much for making it possible!

Keith answered all of my questions…

Keith answered all of my questions without any issues. He addressed everything that I asked and was quite prompt in his responses.

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KwaZulu Natal Safari

• South Africa

Top Places To Visit On a KwaZulu Natal Safari | Safari Online

Kwazulu natal safari & coast.

For many travellers, KwaZulu Natal is where South Africa becomes Africa. The KwaZulu Natal safari destinations rank among the best for rhino, big cats and elephants. The KwaZulu Natal coast, away from the popular resorts, is a place of deserted beaches set between bird-filled forests and teeming coral reefs. Thatched Zulu villages lie close to old battlefields where the echoes of colonial wars still reverberate.

It’s South Africa’s most diverse holiday destination. You can go on Big 5 game drives, enjoy the country’s best bird watching and track nesting turtles. Scuba divers will find an ocean filled with tropical sea life and its mountains are home to spa retreats, hiking trails and world heritage rock art sites. It’s also easy to visit too: many KwaZulu Natal safaris are self-drive tours; you drive between accommodations, leaving the lodge’s guides to take care of the safari activities.

Boasting a sub-tropical climate, KwaZulu Natal will suit every kind of traveller. There are beachfront hideaways for romantic travellers as well as family-friendly lodges and kids safari programmes. History buffs enjoy expertly guided tours around famous battlefields such as Rorke’s Drift and Spion Kop; Zulu culture is showcased through storytelling and song.

There’s plenty for the discerning traveller to enjoy: exclusive country manors and boutique eco-lodges are tucked away in private reserves. It’s also a destination that suits the active traveller: KwaZulu Natal is a playground for nature, sport and water lovers. Go on game drives, track rhino on foot and paddle a coastal lagoon to the call of African fish-eagles. The weather is usually warm and sunny even in mid-winter – and its generously warmed Indian Ocean coast is South Africa’s best snorkelling and diving destination.

Accessible via Durban’s King Shaka International Airport, KwaZulu Natal combines easily with South Africa’s other popular travel destinations – the Kruger Park, Sabi Sands and Cape Town. Contact us and we can recommend a tour based on your requirements or will tailor-make you an itinerary.

Our Top Places to Visit on a KwaZulu Natal Safari:

• Northern Safari Region – KwaZulu Natal Safaris are as famous for rhino, elephant & big cats as they are for their birdlife & beautiful scenery – Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park plus the Phinda & Pongola game reserves are our top choices.
• KwaZulu Natal Coast – Head south for golf courses & sunny swimming beaches; go north for the wild Elephant Coast & iSimangaliso Wetland Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site complete with coral reefs & turtle breeding grounds.
• The Battlefields Region – Easy to include on a self-drive tour, the Boer and Anglo-Zulu War Battlefields are best toured with an expert guide who will bring the landscape to life. Several lodges are in the area & you’ll be introduced to Zulu culture too.
• The Natal Midlands – Reminding visitors of the English Cotswolds, the shire-like scenery of the Midlands is just one reason to visit: fine cuisine, fly-fishing, horseback trails & spa treatments are among the others. South Africa’s biggest mountains – the Drakensberg range – make an impressive backdrop

KwaZulu Natal Safari on the map

Top experiences, things to look forward to in kzn.

KwaZulu Natal’s safari reserves are among the best in South Africa & several are home to lion, leopard, rhino, elephant & buffalo. You’ll enjoy game drives with an expert guide & sharp-eyed tracker.

Palm-fringed beaches, turtle-nesting sites & coral reefs – the KwaZulu Natal coast brims with biological diversity. Home to a handful of private lodges, it’s a paradise for water-lovers, bird watchers & scuba divers.

Whether it’s a stroll around camp with a bird-watching guide or a heart-in-the-mouth rhino tracking adventure, being on foot in big game country is an experience you’ll always remember.

Safari lodges in private reserves conduct spot-lit night drives in the early evenings, your best chance to see Africa’s little-seen nocturnal life on the move – bush babies, giant owls, leopards & porcupines.

Expert guides bring the famous battlefields of Rorke’s Drift, Spion Kop & Isandlwana alive with their vivid description of the events – you can almost smell the gunpowder!

From the novice fisherman to the expert angler fishing with a fly, Lake Jozini offers you the ideal location for a tiger fish catch of a lifetime. We promote a catch and release policy for Tigerfish.

Elephanting does not focus solely on finding and seeing elephants, but offers an educational experience and an opportunity to spend time with an elephant researcher at White Elephant Safari Lodge.

Boat Cruises are a wonderful alternative to exploring the flora and fauna of our wildlife sanctuary. Sightings of herds of antelope, hippo, crocodile as well as an enormous variety of bird species are common.

Experience the extraordinary! Let us tailor-make your safari to South Africa.

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We have been to Africa for 24 of the last 27 years so know a bit about what is involved. Walter has arranged the details for the last couple of years, and has done a superb job. He is always quick to respond and comes up with answers immediately……..no evasive tactics, always head-on!

Communication was excellent – I asked A LOT of questions and did a ton of research myself and Walter was extremely patient with me and very responsive. he was straight forward and extremely professional. Tour itself was excellent – an incredible experience and one never to be forgotten. Everything was spot on.

Safari Online have been nothing but professional and incredible from the time we made our first enquiry to the last day of our stunning holiday. Nothing was too much trouble for Walter. We are now starting to plan our next family Safari for 2019. Guess who we will be booking with??? Safari Online we hope you are ready!!!!!

Our experience with Safari Online was excellent. After becoming very frustrated trying to search for a safari destination on our own, we turned to Karina for help and she was a lifesaver.  We had an amazing safari adventure at the lodge–the experience of a lifetime–and are so grateful for her help. We literally couldn’t have done it without her!

Our 28-day itinerary took us to South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana. A magnificent and unforgettable adventure. Everything ran smoothly and efficiently from the flights, transfers, rides, connections, etc. Absolutely wonderful! Can’t thank them enough!

Excellent service and they supplied good suggestions for our holiday they also organised all internal flights and arranged check in for us so we had no worries while on holiday. We have had a most memorable holiday staying at wonderful places thanks to Sabrina and Safari Online. Would recommend Safari Online to organise your holiday.

Would highly recommend. Safari online asked questions when booking and were efficient and knew exactly what we were looking for in terms of accommodation and animals were wanted to see. Gave advice on a few little extras with no pressure, which we did and am very grateful which make trip even more exciting. Would definitely recommend booking with them.

Safari Online understood our needs and was able to present us with sensible options to choose from. It was evident that this tour operator has knowledgable and experienced agents who can arrange a seemless tour. We were provided with a professional online itinary which was comprehensive and easy to use, knew exactely what to expect, and encountered no stumble blocks along the way.

Our mom grew up in Central and South Africa so we had visited the continent many times. My sister and I wanted to take our teens and husbands to Africa to experience the magic. We had a limited budget but big and specific expectations and by some miracle Walter was able to manage both.

From the very first contact we’re very happy about the respond time and quality of information from safari-online.com. Based on the received first tailor-made quote, which is a weblink with all the details about the flights, photos of the lodges etc. we knew that this is “our” partner for this trip. Our expectations were excelled!!!

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BY THANDA SAFARI

A luxury game reserve in kzn..

Situated in the rich wildlife area of South Africa’s northern KwaZulu Natal (KZN) is one of Africa’s most luxurious safari destinations, Thanda Safari. This multi-award-winning, Big Five private game reserve spanning 14,000-hectares offers four unique safari accommodation options: Thanda Safari Lodge, Villa iZulu, Thanda Tented Camp and The Royal Thanda Club by Thanda Safari, each one an absolute dream to experience.

Thanda’s dedicated team of wildlife guides and trackers lead guests on an adventure into the reserve’s plains, valleys and mountains in search of the legendary Big Five and all the extraordinary wildlife that can be seen on an African Safari.

In addition to offering guests an unforgettable safari experience, what sets Thanda Safari apart is the embracing of Zulu people and Zulu culture – one of the most enigmatic, powerful, enduring cultures in the world. Thanda Safari is committed to the socio-economic empowerment of the local Zulu communities.

Plan your stay with us.

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South Africa Tanzania Mediterranean

Thanda Safari Lodge Thanda Tented Camp Villa iZulu The Royal Thanda Club Thanda Island Thanda Classic Cruise

+27 32 586 0149 [email protected]

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Safari in Kwazulu-Natal

An expert guide to the best safaris in kwazulu-natal.

Stuart Butler

• In this guide
• Kruger National Park
• Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Kwazulu-Natal

• Parks of the North West Province
• Safari in the Eastern Cape
• Safari in the Western Cape
• Best camps & reserves
• Accommodation

Centred on the beach bum surf city of Durban, the huge, and hugely diverse, province of KwaZulu-Natal on South Africa’s east coast doesn’t have the stellar international wildlife reputation of other South Africa safari locations.

And yet, with its rich ocean currents, soaring mountain plateau, searing savannahs and swampy shorelines, sub-tropical KwaZulu-Natal is actually one of the more rewarding wildlife-watching areas of the country.

Drag yourself off the beach towel and you might find yourself having thrilling face-to-face encounters with lumbering hippo, ancient turtles, racing cheetah, breaching whales, growling lions and heavy-footed elephants.

Although there is great wildlife watching in many parts of the region, the largest concentration of protected areas is in the northeastern coastal areas a few hours’ drive north of Durban. Spinning away from the massive Lake St Lucia is a number of interconnecting public and private game reserves which together encompass everything from windblown beaches to Big Five-filled grasslands. It’s a wonderful region to explore and one that, for the moment at least, is mainly the preserve of in-the-know South African wildlife watchers.

Get the digested read

Where to begin? When to go? How to plan? So many questions, so little time. That's why we've asked leading South Africa safari expert Stuart Butler to answer your most frequently asked questions in this handy four-part email series.

Sweeping vistas of Kwazulu–Natal

Kwazulu-Natal best safari camps and reserves

Hluhluwe-imfolozi park.

My favourite Kruger alternative

Anthony Ham

Kwazulu-Natal is South Africa’s cultural heartland, an essential immersion for those seeking to understand this glorious country in all its complexity. Networks of private reserves, plus big-ticket Hluhluwe-iMfolozi range across habitats and landscapes that are quintessentially South African.

Second only to Kruger National Park, the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is a nearly thousand square kilometre slab of wilderness surrounded by private game reserves. With its soaring hills and mountains, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi is scenically much more inspiring than the sometimes drab scrub-scape of Kruger. It is thanks to an innovative and wildly successful breeding programme here that the southern white rhino exists at all, and rhinos from Hluhluwe-iMfolozi have been used to re-populate parks and reserves across southern Africa.

Today, it would be a rare game drive that didn’t bump into at least one of these prehistoric looking creatures. Elephants are common as are buffalo, zebra, giraffe and wildebeest. Much harder to find are the big cats.

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi is easily accessible and has great facilities for people on all budgets. This makes it a good family-safari destination, but it also means it’s the most popular park in KwaZulu-Natal and during the holidays it can get very busy with holidaying locals.

Phinda Game Reserve

Of all the private reserves of KwaZulu-Natal, it’s Phinda that most rivals Sabi Sands and the other world-famous reserves that fringe Kruger. With its winning combination of attractive scenery, large numbers of mammals (including all the big five), more than 400 bird species, stupendously beautiful accommodation and a real sense of exclusivity, a range of exciting visitor activities and a forward-looking conservation and community programme, it’s easy to see how it garners endless accolades.

I'd say this is perhaps the best place in South Africa to see the cheetah, and sightings here are consistently excellent.

And to combine safari with marine wildlife watching, visit the Sodwana coast which rivals the Great Barrier Reef for marine birds.

Fabulous accommodation adds to the appeal, visitor numbers are far fewer than in the Kruger reserves. A stay here doesn’t come cheap and you can only enter the reserve as a guest of one of the six very upmarket lodges. But if your budget stretches to it then, in our opinion, Phinda is one of the very best places for a short safari and you’re almost guaranteed to see all the flagship animals.

featured safaris

Kwazulu Natal Beach and Bush Honeymoon

Jewels of South Africa

13 day small group tour of south africa, wildlife in kwazulu–natal.

The density of big ticket wildlife is a little lower than in the Kruger area, but thanks to the diversity of habitats the range of animals that call Kwazulu-Natal home is exceptional. All the normal big hitters are here including elephant, lion, buffalo, rhino (both black and white), leopard and wild dogs. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park and surrounding conservation areas are the best bet for a classic Big Five safari and many an experienced safari goer actually rates Hluhluwe-iMfolozi over the more famous Kruger.

The bird-life in this region is also unusually prolific and even the least ornithologically inclined visitor can’t fail to be startled by the flurry of bright feathers of a mangrove kingfisher (a winter only visitor) or Natal robin (its name recently changed to red-capped robin-chat).

When to visit

KwaZulu-Natal is a year-round wildlife-watching destination, with something magically natural taking place at any given time. The prime period to visit Hluhluwe-iMfolozi is May to August, when the grass is shortest and wildlife easiest to spot. But if you like your animals small and cute, then November to January is birthing season for many mammals, while in February the elephants make a bee-line for marula trees. The bigger parks in this area are very popular with South Africans and it’s worth trying to avoid the school holidays if you want a more peaceful experience.

Kwazulu–Natal lodges and accommodation

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is the more wallet-friendly of the two parks included here. The park authorities maintain a number of (fairly simple) camps with rondavels (huts) and safari tents. There are also some upmarket lodges which have to be rented in their entirety. You need to provide your own food but a chef is on hand to turn it into something very edible!

Phinda Game Reserve is a different story. There are six lodges here all of which are extraordinarily lavish and come on a full-package basis including meals, safaris and most drinks and other activities. All of them are managed by &Beyond (andbeyond.com) — one of Africa’s better and more conservation-minded safari companies.

Help collar an elephant

For an experience never to be forgotten, guests at Phinda Game Reserve can join the elephant collaring experience. The elephants are collared so that scientists can track their movements accurately and get a more complete grasp on what needs to be done to protect them. Guests can observe scientists and vets track, dart and collar the elephants, but due to the nature of the work this experience can only be had when an elephant actually needs a collar replaced.

Safari in South Africa's North West Province

About the author.

Stuart is an award-winning travel journalist covering safari, trekking and conservation in Africa for the Lonely Planet, Rough Guides, BBC, Bradt Travel Guides, amongst many others. He is the author of Walking With The Maasai , a journey through some of Kenya's lesser-visited Maasai lands.

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KwaZulu Natal

Kwazulu natal safari.

From the magnificent peaks of the Drakensberg mountain range of South Africa , across velvet hills and African bush, to the warm waters of the Indian Ocean – A kwazulu natal safari has long held the enviable position as one of the most popular destination for South Africans in search of relaxation and a bit of adventure. Year-round sunny skies, spectacular scenery, and heaps of activities keep people coming back for more.

Things To Do In KwaZulu Natal

On a KwaZulu Natal holiday you can enjoy big game safaris in renowned parks and reserves, learn about South Africa’s rich and bloody history at infamous battlefields, experience sensational scuba-diving, surfing or fishing along a 600kmcoastline, and indulge in gourmet cuisine and luxurious spa treatments in the emerald green hills of the Midlands.

The tropical hills of Zululand offer visitors a chance to see the big five, visit historical battlefields and enjoy a sunny beach holiday. On a KwaZulu Natal Safari there’s the added benefit of incredible cheetah and both black and white rhino sightings.

The best KwaZulu Natal Big 5 reserves are Phinda, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi and AmaZulu.

Diverse Cultures

The name KwaZulu Natal may be a bit of a mouthful, but it accurately reflects the formation of the province; which is an amalgamation of the Kingdom of Zululand and the British Colony of Natal. KZN is also home to one of the largest Indian communities outside of India itself.

This mix of Zulu, English and Indian cultures is clearly evident in Durban, where modern shopping centres, African craft stalls, golden-domed mosques, Victorian-style buildings, fragrant spice markets and traditional healers each have their place in the sun.

Stay A While

If you’ve got a bit of time, KwaZulu Natal is great for an African self-drive holiday. The majority of cities and towns lie side-by-side along the coastline, linked by a national highway. Heading inland, a few hours’ drive can take you from beach to big game territory. Be warned though, some of the small rural roads could have you dodging people, potholes and cows.

Scattered throughout the province you can find a wide variety of KwaZulu Natal accommodation , luxurious game lodges with private plunge pools, to owner-run guest houses where you can’t help but feel completely at home.

In fact wherever you go, one of your holiday highlights is sure to be the people you meet. KwaZulu Natal has a well-deserved reputation as a friendly destination, with passionate people keen to share their knowledge and enthusiasm for the place they call home.

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Rose Mwangi is a Safari Travel Plus consultant and her destinations of expertise are Kenya, South Africa and Uganda. Rose has a passion for travel and creating travel experiences for our clients.

Melissa loves traveling, and her favorite destinations are South Africa, Tanzania, Namibia and Botswana. She is our Southern African specialist. Her passion is showing and creating itineraries that create memories.

Mike was born and raised in Kenya, and comes from Embu in central Kenya. Mike is a great addition to the Safari Travel Plus team and we are glad to have him as one of our newest members. Mike loves to travel. Favorite destination in Zanzibar. He also loves local food and cuisine. Favorite being Swahili dishes.

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• KwaZulu-Natal

Africa's best authentic tailor-made safaris

By Andre Van Kets

Co-founder, Discover Africa

South Africa’s most ecologically diverse province, KwaZulu-Natal is flanked by two vast and very different but equally important and alluring UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the lush subtropical Indian Ocean coastline protected within iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the lofty 3,000m (9,843ft) peaks of the hiker-friendly uKhahlamba-Drakensberg.

(P.S. If you’re looking for affordable KwaZulu-Natal Accommodation Specials , we’ve got some great travel deals for you.)

Other attractions include the beach holiday city of Durban, the countless smaller beach resorts that flank it on either side, the top-notch Big Five game-viewing offered at the likes of Hluhluwe-Imfolozi and Phinda Game Reserves, and a wealth of historical and cultural sites associated with the Zulu nation for which the province is named.

Highlights of KwaZulu-Natal

South Africa’s third largest city, the vibrant port of Durban, stands at the hub of a 200km (124mi) stretch of Indian Ocean coastline endowed with an endless succession of perfect beaches for beach holidays .

• uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park

A magnet for hikers and ramblers, the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site remarkable not only for its scenic beauty but also for its botanical diversity, wealth of endemic birds, birding safari opportunities , and prehistoric rock art dating back up to 3,000 years.

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve

KwaZulu-Natal’s most important Big Five destination , the 960km2 (371 square mile) Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve was first accorded official protection in 1895 and formerly served as the royal hunting ground of King Shaka Zulu.

The reserve has played a crucial role in the conservation of both African rhino species, and it now protects the world’s densest population of these endangered creatures.

Other prominent residents include elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebra, impala, nyala, greater kudu, warthogs, and to a lesser extent, lions and leopards. From mid-March to mid-December, four-night wilderness trails lead through a 300km2 (116 square mile) area closed to vehicular traffic.

Ramsar Wetlands

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the coastal iSimangaliso Wetland Park incorporates five separate Ramsar Wetlands and a checklist of more than 2,000 vertebrate species, more than any other African conservation area.

The Dhlinza Forest Reserve

The Dhlinza Forest Reserve, bordering the small town of Eshowe, protects the country’s most accessible patch of mist-belt forest. Home to the diminutive Blue duiker and an exciting selection of forest birds for birding safaris , it’s traversed by a 125m (410ft) aerial boardwalk that terminates at a tall tower offering grandstand views to the Indian Ocean.

Karkloof Nature Reserve

Sleepy Howick overlooks the spectacular 95m (312ft) high Howick Falls. It provides access to the Karkloof Nature Reserve, which protects the country’s largest remaining stand of mist-belt forest.

It’s also the focal point of the Midlands Meander, which comprises a few dozen loosely-affiliated cottage industries ranging from art and pottery studios to craft workshops and cheese producers. An imaginative sculpture comprising 50 steel columns marks the out-of-town Nelson Mandela Capture Site, where its namesake was arrested for anti-apartheid activities in 1962.

The showy but exuberant cultural program at Shakaland provides an informative and enjoyable introduction to the culture of the province’s numerically dominant Zulu people. It’s an ideal add-on to your itinerary for your South African holiday if you’re looking for a cultural holiday experience.

eMakhosini Heritage Park

The 250km2 (97 square mile) eMakhosini Heritage Park protects the Zulu ‘Valley of Kings’ and includes such cultural landmarks as King Shaka’s Grave, the reconstructed residence of King Dingane, and the Hill of Execution where the Voortrekker party led by Piet Retief was slaughtered. It’s also home to rhinos and other typical Zululand wildlife.

Battlefields Route

The so-called Battlefields Route through the province’s northern interior comprises several important sites associated with the 19th-century Zulu-Boer and Anglo-Zulu Wars and the Anglo-Boer War of 1899-1902. These include Blood River, Isandlwana, Rorke’s Drift, and Spionkop Hill.

Pietermaritzburg

The inland city of Pietermaritzburg, founded in 1838 as part of a short-lived Boer Republic called Natalia, has been the provincial capital since 1843. Its pedestrian-friendly CBD contains several well-preserved Victorian buildings, including the redbrick City Hall, the Railway Station, the former Supreme Court (now the Tatham Art Gallery), and the Voortrekker Msunduzi Museum.

Practical Information of KwaZulu-Natal

• The main air gateway to KwaZulu-Natal is King Shaka International Airport, which lies 35km (22mi) north of central Durban. It’s connected to Johannesburg, Cape Town, and many other large centers by several daily flights.
• An alternative port of entry for the northern part of the province is Richards Bay, which is connected by daily scheduled flights to Johannesburg and lies about one hour’s drive southwest of iSimangaliso’s St Lucia Village or Hluhluwe-Imfolozi.
• The usual car rental agencies are available at both airports, and airport shuttles and taxis are available to get you to Durban or elsewhere on the coast.
• Traveling between Gauteng and Durban by road, the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park lies about halfway between the two and makes for an excellent place to break up the journey for a few nights. Hotels, B&Bs, and backpacker hostels are plentiful in most parts of the province. The provincial conservation authority also operates an extensive network of affordable and comfortable rest camps in its various reserves.

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Return to life the way it should be lived. Grounded in nature and surrounded by majestic beasts and the Big 5. Sleep underneath stars that shine brightest here, while listening to the bush buzzing loud and clear. Traverse lands that have witnessed histories greatest battles, or explore private game reserves offering unscripted safaris in the heart of Zululand.

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Enrich your life with a stay at any of our independent premier lodges, stretching from the battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, the Big 5 safaris of Zululand, the wetlands of iSimangaliso, to the famed Garden Route.

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THIS PLACE IS ENCHANTING... breathing life back into ones soul with unending sceneries tied in with a great staff- especially the story telling & historian linguistics of our guides who have an unmatched skill, of bringing alive the Events that unfolded through the valleys and Mountains here at Rorkes drift area so many years ago. No wonder a head stand was the first event of our stay.Enjoy yours I'm... Read this review

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Superb location, exceptional hospitality, delightful experience in every way. Andrew is a gracious host and the setting, service and warmth combined for a memorable stay and dining experience. The House is also situated on one of the prettiest viewpoints overlooking the valley towards Uniondale in Plett. It's a favorite stop along the Alkantmooi MTB route (for the cyclists out there) and the freshly baked carrot cake is a must.... Read this review

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Excellent game lodge in a private reserve. A real treat of a place to stay. Staff are excellent; always there to assist but without being in your face. The 2 game drives are brilliant and led by knowledgable guides who clearly care for the animals and love what their work, (but who wouldn’t!) Food and drink are both of a high standard. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, even afternoon tea are... Read this review

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Leopard Mountain Lodge

Thank you, we had the most wonderful stay. We stayed with friends in the Burchells cottage with breathtaking views of the Spioenkop reserve. The surroundings are just incredible and we enjoyed every moment. The interior was lovely, we enjoyed all the amenities and the wonderful fireplace for the cosy evenings. The outside ‘stoep’ was our favourite place for afternoon drinks. The old-world charm of the main lodge area with... Read this review

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If there was a way to give six stars, this place would deserve it.The staff is super nice, we had an amazing time on our camp drives, both because of the landscape and our amazing driver (thanks, Alex! ♡)When we were shown our rooms, saying we were baffled would be one hell of an understatement. A more traditional African "setting" with all the advantages of modern life.Being able to... Read this review

Niklas Meuter via Google Reviews

Top class and definitely the best lodge in the area. Great for honeymoon couples as well as families with slightly older kids. This seems to be a popular destination for tourists looking for an upmarket 'all in one' venue ( sea, beach and bush). Highly recommend!

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Big Five Safari Lodges in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Combine your coastal KwaZulu-Natal beach holiday or cultural tour with a spectacular African Big Five safari at one of these South African game lodges. In the beautiful sub-tropical region, track the African Big Five in private, smaller reserves and avoid the crowd and endless tracking that you will experience in other South African safari destinations.

Although smaller in size, you will stand a better chance to witness elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard in all their glory while staying at one of these.

Hluhluwe River Lodge

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Top 6 Best Game Reserves for Safaris in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN)

Ariadne is an Africa expert. She and her husband form a team who author the Rough Guide to Game Parks of South Africa.

The Zulu Kingdom or KwaZulu-Natal is South Africa’s most diverse province. Best known for its breathtaking coastline and sumptuous beach resorts, the province is highly alluring to wildlife enthusiasts too. A network of more than 50 private and provincial reserves dot the interior. Big 5 game reserves in KZN include Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, famed for its rhinos, Phinda Private Game Reserve with its award-winning lodges and the community-run Tembe Elephant Park. Below are some of the best game reserves for going on safari in KwaZulu Natal.

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1. iSimangaliso Wetland Park

iSimangaliso, an isiZulu word meaning miraculous, is one of the most diverse conservation areas in Africa. It is no surprise then that it was South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. It incorporates a 220km unspoiled coastline, Africa’s biggest estuary, acacia savannah, sand forest and South Africa’s largest freshwater lake. There is plenty to do here. Take a game drive along the Eastern Shores to Cape Vidal where you can safely leave your vehicle to swim or snorkel. Go for a walk on an empty beach hemmed in by forested dunes or take a boat trip looking for hippos and crocodiles on Lake St Lucia. Not to be missed is a morning or afternoon spent sitting in a hide in uMkhuze Game Reserve where rhino, elephant, giraffe and lots of other animals regularly drink.

iSimangaliso Safaris

2. Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi , the oldest proclaimed nature reserve in South Africa, is KwaZulu-Natal’s most popular wildlife destination. It was established in the 1890s to protect Africa’s last remaining white rhinos from extinction. This has been an overwhelming success and today you’re bound to see these bulky animals here in good numbers. Searching for the Big Five and other safari heavyweights against a scenic backdrop of lush hills and deep valleys makes for an unforgettable experience.

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Safaris

3. Pongola Game Reserve

The little-known Pongola Game Reserve lies on the shore of Pongolapoort Dam. The focus here isn’t on standard game drives. A very exciting morning activity is tracking rhinos on foot. Trudging through the bush, picking up on footprints and other signs is a challenging pastime, but you’ll know it is all worth it when you get the first glimpse of your target. Sneaking up on a blissfully unaware rhino downwind is bound to get your adrenaline pumping. Afternoons are best spent on a leisurely boat cruise. Even then you’re in for a thrill a minute – there are crocs and hippos everywhere, the birdlife is amazing, and you’ll see a few more rhinos and other heavyweights while sipping your sundowner drinks.

4. Phinda Private Game Reserve

Phinda is the most prestigious of private game reserves in the province. Packages are all-inclusive and the guiding is excellent. It offers great close-up sightings of all of the Big Five in open vehicles, but its flagship animal is the cheetah. This is one of the best places to see this gracious cat in action, whether it is grooming, hunting or nursing cubs.

Phinda Safaris

5. Tembe Elephant Park

Tembe Elephant Park was established in 1983 to protect what was then the last free-ranging population of elephants in the country. The herd consisted of about 150 individuals, many of which carrying gigantic tusks. Although these elephants have died over the years, their genes have been passed on. Even today, Tembe is known for its big tuskers. All of the Big Five can be spotted here as well as Zululand specials such as the graceful nyala and the diminutive red duiker. A limited number of day visitors are allowed access, but for a rounded experience an overnight at the community-owned tented camp is highly recommended.

Tembe Safaris

6. Zimanga Private Game Reserve

Zimanga offers a unique experience especially suitable to keen wildlife photographers. The main attraction in this Big Five reserve is a collection of sunken hides. The photographic shelters are set up with immaculate precision to get the perfect shot. Each hide focuses on something different. The scavenger hide attracts vultures and the odd black-backed jackal, the lagoon hide gets you eye-level with the water for in-your-face shots of waterbirds. You get a chance to photograph little seed-eating birds such as waxbills and canaries in the bird-bath reflection hide. Most exciting perhaps is the overnight hide where you might come face to face with any of the Big Five as they drink just a few meters away from your lens.

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You Visit: Hoedspruit (Start) , Sabi Sands (Greater Kruger) , Hoedspruit (End)

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You Visit: Hoedspruit (Start) , Timbavati NR (Greater Kruger) , Hoedspruit Airport (Hoedspruit) , Hoedspruit (End)

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Destinations

Local destinations, themed holidays, about thompsons, kwazulu natal holiday destinations.

With its balmy tropical climate, endless sunshine, lush beauty and a wealth of scenic and cultural attractions, KwaZulu-Natal is the quintessential holiday destination, and a popular choice for both locals and international visitors. This beautiful province offers an inexhaustible number of things to do and places to go, including golden beaches, excellent wildlife reserves, historic battlefields and awe-inspiring World Heritage Sites like the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.   

Taking centre stage is Durban , a laid-back coastal city that is one of South Africa ’s best-kept secret s . With its golden beaches, warm seas, and fantastic child-friendly entertainment such as uShaka Marine World , Durban is an ideal family holiday destination. Plus, it’s only a 7-hour drive from Johannesburg , making for easy travel logistics. Just north of the city , the iconic Umhlanga Lighthouse invites you to explore th e ‘ Riviera of Durban’ and its gorgeous trop ical beaches. Venturing further along the North Coast, Ballito is well known for its superb and safe beaches, while t o the south, the quaint coastal towns of Port Edward, Port Shepstone and Margate are waiting to be discovered. Coffee tastings , adrenaline-fueled activities , outdoor adventures and more are on the menu on a Durban South Coast holiday.   

Inland K wa Z ulu- N atal is equally magical. T he dramatic Drakensberg  mountains set the scene for adventure holidays , while c ouples and families love the “Berg” for its breathtaking beauty , romantic scenery a nd entertaining activities to suit all ages . And then there is the creative Midlands Meander, a must-visit for art and craft enthusiasts.    

Why holiday in KZN  

• Dubbed ‘South Africa’s playground’, the province offers a wild combination of coast, country and mountains.    
• The weather is superb year-round.    
• A safari holiday   h otspot , KwaZulu-Natal bush breaks are  home to the Big 5, which can be found in many of its world-class parks and reserves.
• KwaZulu-Natal is home to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park , South Africa’s first World Heritage Site.  
• KZN’s r ich heri tage and fascinating history are waiting to be explored in Zululand.       
• Enjoy superb cuisine and seafood.    
• Spend time in Durban   exploring the city, beaches and markets.     
• KwaZulu-Natal  is  a year-round holiday  destination   for every type of  traveller .  Where else in South Africa   can you sunbathe on golden beaches in the middle of winter?   

Whether you’re enjoying the ultimate beach break   or exploring inland to discover some of the province’s more adventurous holiday destinations, book your affordable 2024 KwaZulu-Natal trip today and let’s plan your dream local getaway.  

Things to do in KwaZulu-Natal 

KwaZulu-Natal is one of South Africa’s most sought-after holiday destinations – and for a good reason. Not only is the weather superb all year round, but this tropical paradise offers some of the country’s most magnificent beaches and numerous attractions for young and old. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach break on the South Coast with family, want to enjoy a hike in the Drakensberg or would prefer to explore the North Coast, you’re in for a treat. Whatever you want to do, KwaZulu-Natal’s holiday destinations await.   

KZN attractions and things to do on holiday    

• Witness KwaZulu-Natal’s unforgettable sardine run.   
• Enjoy music, sport and arts festivals.    
• Discover unlimited fun with water rides, an oceanarium and more at Ushaka Marine World.   
• Explore the Moses Mabhida Stadium on an exciting Segway Gliding tour.   
• Enjoy high tea at the legendary Oyster Box Hotel in Umhlanga.   
• Slide through the forest canopy on a Drakensberg Canopy Tour.   
• Enjoy tiger fishing in Lake Jozini.   
• Take a boat cruise on the St Lucia Estuary.   
• Go ziplining through the forest in the Midlands.   
• Spend the day learning about Zulu traditions at Zululand’s largest kraal, Shakaland.   
• Enjoy game viewing in Africa’s oldest game reserve, the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park.   
• Sample an iconic bunny chow meal in Durban.   
• Go horse riding and enjoy a picnic on the Midlands Meander.   
• Ride a rickshaw on Durban’s famous Golden Mile.   

That’s just a small taste of what’s in store on holiday in KwaZulu-Natal. When you explore the North and South coasts, you’ll find even more delights waiting to be discovered. Experience the best of KwaZulu-Natal with a holiday package from Thompsons Holidays.  Browse our best deals now.

Know before you go...

When is the best time to visit?  

• KwaZulu-Natal is a year-round destination, with a tropical climate along the coast and a temperate climate inland. However, the highlands of the province can be very cold in the winter.   
• The best time to visit KZN for game viewing is in the dry winter months (from April to September).  
• Birdwatching is best in the summer rainy season (November to March).   
• Summer is also peak season, with thousands of visitors enjoying the facilities along the South and North Coasts.   

Getting there & getting around 

• KwaZulu-Natal is serviced by one main airport in Durban. Flight duration from Johannesburg to Durban: 1 hour, 5 minutes.  
• From Cape Town: 2 hours, 5 minutes.   
• Driving time from Johannesburg to Durban: approximately 7 hours.

What can I do to be a responsible traveller?

• Wherever possible, buy local food and souvenirs and support local artisans.    
• Be mindful of the environment and avoid single-use plastic.    
• Respect each other's cultures and customs.

Safety tips

• Be safety conscious, especially in the larger cities.
• Don’t display cash or valuables.
• Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.  

What to pack?

• With the high humidity; loose, breathable clothing is advised.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
• You're going to want to swim; bring along your swimming gear.
• Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses are a must.

What do I do in an emergency?

• Contact the Thompsons Holidays 24-hour care line to assist in any travel related emergency.

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Rhino Sands

News & stories, from the blog, summer special: beach and bush safari holiday in kzn.

• October 26, 2022

Why we love Sala for a beach and bush safari holiday in KZN

• Relax in several elegant spaces, like the dining room, outdoor terrace, and two swimming pools.
• Watch the sun rise over the Indian Ocean and often spot pods of dolphins gracefully moving through the water.
• Head down via private access to to a protected tidal pool, swimming beach and secluded coves.
• Indulge in exquisite dining, sundowner canapés around the firepit and a cocktail of the day.
• Treat yourself to a healing message and therapeutic treatment at the on-site wellness spa.
• Enjoy other activities in the area as well, including deep sea fishing, golf, surfing and micro-lighting.

What to expect on your luxury safari with us

• Connect with nature from a private tented suite raised above a riverbed and surrounded by lush forest.
• Enjoy amazing Big 5 and wildlife sightings in Manyoni, one of Zululand’s premier game reserves.
• Experience the bush on guided morning and afternoon game drives, that include morning coffee stops and sundowners with a spectacular view.
• Dine beneath the stars around the boma fire on culinary delights that match each guest’s preferences.
• Stay in an eco-friendly safari camp that operates off-grid and with minimal disruption to the surrounding environment.
• Become part of the Rhino Sands family, as our camp staff and guides make you feel at home, always.

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Luxury tented safari camp in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

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