Babanango Game Reserve

Babanango Game Reserve is one of KwaZulu Natal's most successful rewilding projects over the last few years. And now you can experience it for yourselves. There are three main lodges on Babanango: the luxurious Madwaleni Lodge,  family-friendly Valley Lodge and .4+ star Zulu Rock Lodge. They have now added two-night walking safaris.

Babanango Game Reserve

Babanango Game Reserve, located in the heart of Zululand, KwaZulu-Natal, is a showcase for one of the most ambitious rewilding projects in Southern Africa in recent years. Set among the topography of the upper White Umfolozi River Valley, the reserve occupies a vast wilderness area of over 20,000 hectares that is steeped in Zulu history and layered upon geological features that date back to the beginning of time.

The stunning landscape of Babanango Game Reserve, with its rugged mountains and serene valleys, serves as a sanctuary for an incredible variety of birds, plants, insects, reptiles, and mammals. Here, you might catch a glimpse of the secretive aardvark or hear the distant call of the aardwolf. With the recent return of the African elephant, Babanango is officially a Big Five game reserve.

Madwaleni River Lodge

Nestled on the southern bank of the White Umfolozi River, sits the opulent Madwaleni River Lodge. The name “Madwaleni” comes from an isiZulu phrase meaning “The place of the rock,” reflecting the beautiful granoliths found in this part of the reserve. This ultra-luxury tented camp blends sophistication and wilderness, offering you a truly exclusive retreat.  The twelve luxurious tents, each uniquely designed and recognized for its award-winning style, providing unmatched comfort and style. The main building has a restaurant, lounge, and library. Madwaleni River Lodge is unfenced, so guests can fully immerse themselves in nature.

At Madwaleni River Lodge, every moment is crafted to inspire awe and tranquillity. From the panoramic views that greet you each morning to magical encounters with wildlife, this sanctuary reconnects guests with the beauty of nature.

Zulu Rock Lodge

Zulu Rock Lodge is perched high on the cliffs of Babanango Game Reserve and captivates its guests with breath-taking views of the expansive landscape. This exclusive lodge offers six luxurious villa-style suites, perfect for couples seeking a private safari getaway, and a family villa. Indulge in room service or unwind on the deck beside the elevated pool, watching the wildlife gracefully roam the valley below. Designed for those desiring an intimate and serene retreat, Zulu Rock Lodge can accommodate a maximum of 16 guests, ensuring a personalised experience. With no fences to separate guests from nature, this bush lodge accommodation invites guests to immerse themselves in the stunning natural surroundings.

Family-friendly Valley Lodge

The homely Valley Lodge, situated deep in the south of Babanango Game Reserve, is perfect for couples and families, Its nine adjoining luxury rooms provide splendid views of indigenous gardens designed by horticulturalist Chris Dalzell. This farm-style lodge ensures a cosy experience. You can enjoy panoramic views from infinity and splash pools or relax by the fireplace. The library offers books on local history and bird species. In the evening, the outdoor boma with a firepit creates an intimate ambience. The lodge’s culinary experience includes canape-style lunches, handcrafted cocktails, and traditional South African-style potjiekos and braais. Being fenced off for safety, it is perfect for families.

Hilltop House (mimimum of 4 adults)

An exclusive use House with three bedrooms suitable for 4 to 6 people with its own private game vehicle.

(Babanango Game Reserve also has an Adventure camp, Matatane Camp, for gap year and other students. Activities available at this camp also offer some adventure activities for guests staying at the other three camps.)

Activities at Babanango Game Reserve

Safari activities are more extensive than at many other game reserves with the usual 4x4 game drives on offer. But this is joined by bush walks, breakfast or lunch in the bush. Or why not immerse yourself in the intriguing history of the Coppermine Tour, located just 10 minutes away from Valley Lodge.  Adventure activities such as ziplining are also on offer at Matatane camp.

Battlefield Tours - Being only 45 mins drive from the famous Isandlwana battlefield, guests staying longer at Babanango may well want to enjoy an excursion to both Isandlwana and the equally fascinating Rorke's Drift Station. BUT please note that this takes the FULL day so you forfeit your game drives in the morning and afternoon. So we strongly recommend that you stay at least 3 nights, preferably 4 nights if you want to do this.

Walking Safaris - two night walking safaris (minimum 2 people and maximum of 6 people.) staying at fly-camps. Great to combine with