Durban:3 Day Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, St Lucia, iSimangaliso

Umhlabuyalingana Municipality, Durban



Discover the sights and sounds of the African Wilderness on a 3-Day Safari. Visit the acclaimed Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park and South Africa's first-world heritage site, iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

This 3-day safari package from Durban offers Full-Day Big 5 game drives and a hippo boat cruise, suited for wildlife enthusiasts seeking immersive African wilderness experiences.

Highlights

  • Full-Day Big 5 Safari in an open game drive vehicle
  • 2-hour Hippo Boat Cruise on the St Lucia Estuary
  • Safari exploration of iSimangaliso Wetland Park
  • 22 years of local guiding experience
  • All tours and safaris operated in-house

Description

Explore Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park and iSimangaliso Wetland Park over three days, with overnight accommodation in St Lucia, KwaZulu Natal. This safari combines wildlife viewing with unique wetland ecosystems.

On Day 1, depart Durban and transfer 2.5 hours to St Lucia. After a briefing, embark on a 2-hour boat cruise on the St Lucia Estuary to see hippos, Nile crocodiles, and estuarine birds. Conclude the day with a 2.5-hour sunset drive in iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

Day 2 begins early with a 5:00 AM pick-up for a full day game drive in a 4x4 open vehicle through Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park’s southern Umfolozi section. Enjoy breakfast in the bush and search for the Big 5: elephants, rhinos, leopards, lions, and buffalo. A traditional South African barbecue lunch is served in the bush. The evening is free to relax in St Lucia.

Day 3 starts at 8:00 AM after breakfast with a visit to Cape Vidal. Observe marine life, Samango monkeys, and diverse habitats including grasslands and mangroves. Snorkeling is available in the protected bay depending on weather and tides. After the half-day tour, return transfers to Durban are provided. Picnic lunch and refreshments are included.

Includes

  • 2-hour Hippo Boat Cruise
  • 3-hour Sunset Game Drive
  • Full-Day Big 5 Safari in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park (breakfast, traditional South African BBQ lunch, refreshments, conservation and gate fees included)
  • Half-Day iSimangaliso Wetland Park tour (conservation and gate fees included)
  • Picnic lunch and refreshments
  • Accommodation (4-star Bed and Breakfast) in St Lucia, KwaZulu Natal
  • Transportation in 4x4 open game drive safari vehicles for all safaris
  • Knowledgeable and experienced guides
  • Transfers to and from Durban by mini-bus or SUVs

Excludes

  • Dinners
  • Personal expenses
  • Gratuities

Important Information

  • Activities are weather dependent
  • Dress appropriately for weather conditions
  • Early morning departures should be expected
  • Wildlife sightings, including the Big 5, are not guaranteed

Cancellation Policy

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

Booking tip: Bring comfortable clothing for early morning game drives, sunscreen, insect repellent, and swimwear for snorkeling. The best months to visit are during the dry season for optimal wildlife viewing.

Frequently Asked Questions

The package includes a full-day Big 5 safari in Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park, exploration of iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and a 2-hour hippo boat cruise on the St Lucia Estuary.
The safari tour departs from Durban city, with transport provided to Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park and iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Yes, Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park is known for sightings of the Big 5: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros.
The hippo boat cruise on the St Lucia Estuary lasts approximately 2 hours.
Yes, the safari is family-friendly but it's recommended to check specific age restrictions with the tour provider.
Game drives are conducted in open game drive vehicles designed for optimal wildlife viewing.
Park entrance fees are typically included in the tour price, but check with the operator for any additional permits or fees.
The dry winter months from May to September generally offer better wildlife viewing conditions in KwaZulu Natal.
Most 3-day safari packages include meals, but confirm meal details and dietary options when booking.
Yes, this safari visits Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park and iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa's first World Heritage site near Durban.

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