Set along the warm Indian Ocean waters of South Africa’s east coast, KwaZulu Natal is a haven of natural splendour and a world class safari destination. Home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites the area is comprised of the vast mountain ranges of the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg through to the lakes and wetlands of the expansive iSimangaliso Wetland Park in St Lucia. The Drakensberg escarpment rises 3000m above sea level and boasts more rivers than any comparable area in the country.
The northern coast is world-renowned for remarkable scuba diving while the Big 5 (elephant, rhino, lion, leopard, and buffalo) reside in the plains of Zululand. KwaZulu Natal safaris are renowned for their highly populated game reverse and diverse landscapes and vegetation.
Mozambique presents a plethora of opportunities for adventurers, romantics, and families alike, boasting extraordinary aquatic experiences and a sumptuous blend of Portuguese, Arab, and African culinary influences with plenty of seafood delights. The high standard of outstanding hospitality and attention to every detail of the traveler’s stay makes a tropical vacation here something exceptional. Set along the south coast, Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago lies inside a remarkable marine park. The islands of Bazaruto, Santa Isobel, Benguerra, and Santa Carolina boast picture-perfect ocean vistas from the well-appointed luxury lodges. Here guests can spend days exploring pristine coral beds with a snorkel or dive deeper down to discover the colourful ocean life beneath the surface. Atop the waters guests can kayak, swim, enjoy long shoreline strolls, head out on a sunset cruise driven by billowing dhow sails, and savour barefoot candlelit dinners on the sand. Whether its solitude, luxury, or adventure you seek, Mozambique truly is the epitome of a quintessential beach holiday.
Wildlife
Private game reserves place a high priority on conservation efforts and community upliftment with rhino conservation of specific interest in the region.
Spectacular Big 5 encounters, crocodile sightings, and turtle tours in season. Further, you will see giraffe, zebra, varieties of intriguing antelope, hippo, warthog, and hyena to name but a few.
Game Drives
- Game drives are taken in open 4×4 safari vehicles and are accompanied by a ranger, who will share a wealth of knowledge about the animals with you.
- The game drives on a KwaZulu Natal safari are 3 to 4 hours long and take place twice a day in the morning and afternoon.
- Morning game drives are complimented by a coffee stop and a sundowner downer stop in the evening a remote location.
Location
KwaZulu Natal lies on South Africa’s warm east coast.
Getting There
- The closest commercial airport is Durban (DUR) or Richards Bay (RCB).
- Flight time from Cape Town to Durban: 2 hours
- Flight time from Johannesburg to Durban: 70 minutes
- Flight time from Johannesburg to Richards Bay: 70 minutes
- The reserves are a 2- to 4-hour drive from Durban, 1 to 2 hours from Richards Bay
Highlights
- KwaZulu Natal is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites: The Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Mountain Range and iSimangaliso Wetland Park in St Lucia.
- The northern coast is world-renowned for remarkable scuba diving.
- Guests near St Lucia can enjoy water activities in the ocean and lakes including fishing, boat safaris, and kayaking.
- Zulu cultural tours.
Featured Safari Packages
Loved by Our Guests
Phinda Rock Lodge
Ages 12 years and older
Phinda Mountain Lodge
All ages are welcome
Thanda Tented Camp
Ages 6 years and older
Leopard Mountain Lodge
Ages 12 years and older
Nambiti Plains
Ages 8 years and older
Thanda Safari Lodge
All ages are welcome
&beyond Forest Lodge
All ages are welcome
Rhino Sands Safari Camp
Ages 13 years and older
&beyond Vlei Lodge
Ages 12 years and older
&beyond Phinda Homestead
All ages are welcome
Thanda Villa Izulu
All ages are welcome
Safari Experts at Your Service
Guiding you to Africa’s finest lodges, wildlife encounters, and private safari experiences. Every journey is tailored, seamless, and unforgettable.
Map
Guides & Articles
Ready to start planning your safari?
Contact Us
Safaris Down South
STAY UP TO DATE
Sign up to our newsletter and receive the latest news and specials directly from the lodge.