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.
Featured Safari Packages
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Phinda Rock Lodge
Ages 12 years and older
Phinda Mountain Lodge
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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
Nambiti Hills
All ages are welcome
&beyond Phinda Homestead
All ages are welcome
Cheetah Ridge
All ages are welcome
Thanda Villa Izulu
All ages are welcome

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