KwaZulu-Natal: Thanda Safari Private Game Reserve Tour

KwaZulu-Natal, Durban



Explore Thanda Safari Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal. See rhinos, giraffes, and zebras, visit Zulu villages, and shop for souvenirs at the curio shop.

Overview

This two-day safari departs from Durban, exploring Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve and iSimangaliso Wetland Park, ideal for wildlife and nature enthusiasts.

Highlights

  • Discover wildlife in Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve
  • See the Big 5 and other animals
  • Game safari in Dukuduku including rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and hyenas
  • Hippo and crocodile boat cruise in St Lucia Estuary
  • Shop for souvenirs and locally made goods at the curio shop

Description

Day 1: Durban → Hluhluwe → St Lucia

Depart Durban at 06:00am and travel to Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, one of Africa’s oldest game reserves. Enjoy an open-vehicle 4x4 safari guided by experienced staff. Possible wildlife sightings include rhinoceros, elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, and antelope. Lunch is at your own cost. Continue to the coastal town of St Lucia, the gateway to iSimangaliso, with overnight accommodation at St Lucia Palms or similar.

Day 2: iSimangaliso Wetland Park → Durban

After breakfast, explore iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a hippo and crocodile boat cruise (approximately 2 hours) on the St Lucia Estuary to see hippos, Nile crocodiles, and various bird species. Lunch is at your own expense. In the afternoon, enjoy a game safari in Dukuduku, part of iSimangaliso, with opportunities to see elephants, antelope, zebras, and diverse ecosystems including forests and wetlands. Return to Durban in the late afternoon, arriving around 6pm.

Includes

  • Overnight hotel accommodation in St Lucia
  • Guided open 4x4 safari in Hluhluwe Game Reserve
  • Wildlife sightings including rhino, giraffe, zebra, hyena, warthog, impala, kudu, and nyala
  • Over 250 bird species
  • Hippo and crocodile boat cruise in St Lucia Estuary
  • Game safari in Dukuduku
  • Access to curio shop with souvenirs and local products

Excludes

  • Meals and refreshments
  • Tips

Important Information

  • Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve covers over 3,000 hectares
  • Home to over 250 bird species
  • Purchases at the curio shop support local communities

Cancellation Policy

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

Booking Tips

Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, binoculars, and a camera. The best time for wildlife viewing is early morning and late afternoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can see the Big 5 including rhinos, elephants, lions, buffalo, and leopards, as well as zebras, giraffes, hyenas, and various bird species.
The safari includes visits to Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve and the Dukuduku area within iSimangaliso Wetland Park near Durban.
The tour lasts two full days, starting and ending in Durban.
Yes, the tour includes a hippo and crocodile boat cruise on the St Lucia Estuary where you can spot aquatic animals.
Yes, the tour covers diverse ecosystems with many bird species found in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve and iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Yes, the tour includes a stop at a curio shop where you can purchase locally made goods and souvenirs.
Transportation between Durban and the safari reserves is provided as part of the guided two-day tour.
Check the tour website for details on included meals and dining options during the two-day safari from Durban.
The tour is family-friendly, but it’s best to confirm age requirements and suitability for children on the official site.
Wildlife viewing is generally good year-round, but the dry winter months offer better game sightings; check the website for seasonal advice.

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