5-Day Zululand Tour of Drakensberg, Hluhluwe & Isimangaliso

uMngeni, Durban



Discover the best of Zululand on a 5-day tour from Durban. Visit Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve, Isimangaliso Wetlands Park, and the Drakensberg Mountains.

Highlights

  • Discover the diverse landscapes of Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve on a safari
  • Explore iSimangaliso Wetlands Park on a game drive with varied wildlife
  • Enjoy a boat cruise on the St Lucia Estuary to see hippos and crocodiles
  • Learn about Zulu customs and heritage at Phezulu Safari Park
  • Hike in the Drakensberg Mountains

Description

This 5-day tour covers major attractions in KwaZulu-Natal, including safaris, cultural experiences, and hiking. It suits visitors interested in wildlife, history, and natural landscapes.

Begin with a game drive in Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve. Travel in an open vehicle through rolling hills and savannahs in Africa’s oldest game reserve, known for successful rhino conservation. Expect to see white and black rhinos, lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and diverse birdlife. Overnight accommodation is in St Lucia, near iSimangaliso Wetlands Park.

Next, explore iSimangaliso Wetlands Park on another game drive. This park offers sightings of elephants, rhinos, buffalos, antelope, and a wide variety of birds.

On day 3, take a hippo and crocodile boat cruise on the St Lucia Estuary. Observe large pods of hippos in the water and crocodiles on the banks while cruising through this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Travel to Durban for a city tour. Visit the Golden Mile beachfront, the promenade, and Victoria Street Market, which reflects Durban’s cultural diversity. Overnight in Durban.

Day 4 includes a visit to Phezulu Safari Park. Tour a traditional Zulu village, watch dance performances, and learn about Zulu customs and heritage. The park’s Reptile Park offers close encounters with crocodiles and snakes.

Visit Howick Falls, a 95-meter waterfall surrounded by lush foliage with excellent viewpoints. Then tour the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, marking where Mandela was arrested in 1962. The site features a large outdoor sculpture of Mandela’s face.

On day 5, enjoy hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains. Choose from trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs amid towering peaks, valleys, and waterfalls.

Includes

  • 4 nights accommodation with breakfast
  • Expert guides
  • Open-vehicle game drives
  • Hippo and crocodile boat cruise
  • Cultural experiences
  • Entrance fees to parks and sites

Excludes

  • Lunches and dinners
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips

Important Information

  • The tour ends at 5pm on day 5 in Durban
  • Bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and hiking
  • Carry water and snacks for hikes
  • Camera recommended for wildlife and scenic photography

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can see the Big Five, hippos, crocodiles, and diverse bird species in Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve and iSimangaliso Wetlands Park.
The tour begins with a safari in the Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve after departing from Durban.
Yes, the tour includes a boat cruise on the St. Lucia Estuary to view hippos and crocodiles.
Yes, the itinerary features hiking opportunities in the Drakensberg Mountains.
You will visit Phezulu Safari Park to experience authentic Zulu cultural performances and traditions.
No previous safari experience is needed; the tour is suitable for first-time and experienced wildlife enthusiasts.
Dry winter months are ideal for wildlife viewing, but check local conditions and the tour website for current recommendations.
The tour includes a day to hike and explore parts of the Drakensberg Mountains in KwaZulu-Natal.
Yes, transportation from Durban to all key sites, including game reserves and hiking areas, is included.
Permits are arranged as part of the tour package, so you do not need to secure them independently.

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