Ithala Game Reserve
The Ithala Game Reserve is arguably one of the most beautiful reserves in South Africa. It is located within the rugged, mountainous thornveld of northern KwaZulu-Natal, and has a multitude of habitats that hosts various wildlife species.
The reserve has a distinct geography, and the rock formations found here are some of the oldest in the world. Ithala’s terrain extends over the Lowveld, lush riverenes, grassland plateaus, valleys and cliff faces.
The reserve also has evidence of man’s existence in the area dating back some 20 000 years. Iron-smelting evidence suggests that the Nguni people also resided in the area a few hundred years ago. Ithala was the setting for Shaka Zulu’s rule, as well as gold mining efforts in the early 20th century.
Ithala offers outstanding game watching, where visitors can view lions, zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, cheetahs, various species of buck and an abundance of birdlife. The reserve’s activities include morning safari’s, walking trails, picnic in designated areas by rivers and hiking.
Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park
Wildlife can be experienced in the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, one of the largest game parks in South Africa. It is home to the Big Five as well as the elusive cheetah and wild dogs. Renowned for its large population of rhinos, self-drive and guided safaris are a great way to explore this vast wilderness area.
In the 1960’s the park became world-renowned for its white rhino conservation. The park developed famous wilderness trails in the 1950’s, and its Game Capture Unit set the standard for animal capture and sustainable utilisation throughout Africa.
Apart from safari’s, guided walks and hikes are spectacular to view birdlife and soak in the scenic landscape. Their accommodation includes self-catering, B&B style and fully catered, luxury game lodges.
Bonamanzi Game Reserve
Bonamanzi Game Reserve is a natural heritage site and one of the largest private wildlife parks in the Zululand region. There is 4000ha of pristine bushland to explore, and you are guaranteed to see unique wildlife.
The reserve is rated as one of the top birding spots in South Africa, and boasts with habitats of sand forest, grasslands and woodlands. The rich diversity of species allows for more than 300 bird species to call the reserve their home. Visitors can enjoy a birding boat cruise down the Hluhluwe River, and the interactive bush experience allows visitors to enjoy game drives and walking trails.
Ndumo Game Reserve
Ndumo Game Reserve is situated on the border with Mozambique where the Pongola River joins the Great Usutu River. The reserve is best known for its spectacular bird life - it has 430 species, which is the highest bird count in South Africa. Its varied habitat boasts with game such as bushbuck, impala, red duiker, rhino, hippo and a large population of crocodile.
Visitors can enjoy serene views across the Phongolo River floodplain, and accommodation on offer lies within a magnificent tropical landscape. Specialised bird walks are on offer, as well as game drives and walking trails.