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Thanda Game Reserve
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.
With nearly one hundred protected areas it is no wonder that the Kingdom of the Zulu offers diverse ecosystems spanning savannah lands, wild bushveld, beaches, alpine and marine riches, waterfalls, and riverine gorges. This makes for a great variety of wildlife and bird species as well as water-loving animals including hippo and crocodile. KwaZulu Natal safari destinations holds a proud cultural heritage with private game reserves placing extremely high value on conservation efforts and community upliftment. Rhino conservation has been of specific interest in the region. When you’re not in search of wildlife on a Big 5 game drive, or getting involved in community and conservation initiatives, this is the perfect location to head to the beautiful coast, surf, fish, hike, or soak up the warmth of the African sun. KwaZulu Natal safaris offer an abundance of activities and as well ad warm climates throughout the year.
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.
Rates:
- The updated rates are displayed for each room category below.
- Rates are charged per person, per night.
- Single supplement of 50% applicable.
- Rates displayed are valid until 31 December 2024.
Seasons:
- Peak season: 01 Nov – 31 March
- High season:01 Sep – 31 Oct & 1 Apr – 30 Apr
- Low season: 01 Nov – 31 March
Thanda Tented Camp
Thanda Private Game Reserve
From $ 336 per person per night
Includes 2 daily game drives, meals, beverages…
Thanda’s tented safari camp offers an authentic bush experience with 15 deluxe tented suites. The main camp includes a Hemingway-style lounge and a rim-flow pool.
Ages 6 years and older
Thanda Safari Lodge
Thanda Private Game Reserve
From $ 598 per person per night
Includes 2 daily game drives, meals, beverages…
Thanda Safari Lodge is a 5-star retreat with Zulu-inspired circular design, a waterhole-viewing deck, and nine secluded luxury suites offering privacy and sweeping views.
All ages are welcome
Thanda Villa Izulu
Thanda Private Game Reserve
From $ 630 per villa per night
Includes 2 daily game drives, meals, beverages…
Villa iZulu offers an exclusive-use experience with a private chef, butler, manager, ranger, and safari vehicle. The villa features five en-suite bedrooms and a garden with a pool.
All ages are welcome
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