Rhino River Lodge

Rhino River Lodge is a family-owned and operated Big 5 safari lodge located in the Manyoni Private Game Reserve. This 23,000-hectare private game reserve is situated in the very heart of Zululand, 30kms north of Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park in KwaZulu Natal.

The area is renowned for its animal-rich, species-diverse and rich cultural heritage. The reserve is home to all of the Big 5 (rhino, elephant, buffalo, leopard and lion). And has seen the re-introduction of two endangered carnivore species, cheetah and African wild dog. And features beautiful varied landscapes from acacia thornveld to open savannah to riverine forest.

The Lodge

Rhino River Lodge is a relaxed family-style safari lodge. With a reputation for excellent customer service and superior value for money. The lodge grounds sprawl through an area of thick riverine vegetation. Rich with bird and animal life, and filled with magnificent fig and fever trees. There is a lovely reception area with curio shop, dining room with bar, a lounge overlooking the bush, and swimming pool.

The Accommodation

Rhino River Lodge offers three types of accommodation. Guests can choose from double en-suite luxury rooms, family chalets or one of the two-bedroom private safari homes (the Cottage and the Homestead). The lodge accommodates a maximum of 24 people. All accommodation types feature air-conditioning, ceiling fans, private verandahs, mosquito nets, coffee and tea making facilities, and a fully-stocked minibar.

The en suite luxury rooms offer traditional style accommodation. They are decorated in a modern rustic style with newly renovated bathrooms. Each room has large mosquito net, sitting area and private veranda.

For a small family or groups of friends that would like a little extra space, the two-bedroom family chalets are perfect. Each log cabin-styled chalet has two double bedrooms (one is a second story loft-style room), shared bathroom with bathtub, open plan living area, and private boma.

Guests that desire a little extra space and seclusion can book the traditional thatched two bedroom Cottage. This private safari home is reminiscent of a British cottage with a nod towards African-inspired decor. The house can accommodate four guests in two en-suite bedrooms, complete with air conditioners and stunning views. The Cottage features a cozy lounge and dining room as well as a fully functional kitchen. The covered verandah and private swimming pool overlooking the Msunduze River are the star features of this comfortable house - the perfect spot to enjoy family or friends while taking in the sights and sounds of the Zululand bush.

The private and luxury exclusive Homestead is a stylish contemporary two-bedroom safari home. Each bedroom has an en-suite bathroom with bathtub and features an outdoor shower. Stacking doors in the spacious lounge fully open onto a private deck at the edge of the camp‘s boundary with un-touched bushveld views. This modern-styled home was designed to highlight the natural surroundings. The Homestead is equipped with a fully functional open plan kitchen, air conditioning, and a private plunge pool overlooking the Msunduze River bed.

Activities

On safari you will have the opportunity to see lions, rhinos, elephants, cheetahs, wild dogs and much more as you are guided through the Big 5 Manyoni Private Game Reserve by one of the knowledgeable game rangers. Game drives on the reserve are regulated by the reserve and coordinated by the ecotourism businesses to minimize the impact on the environment and the stress on the animals and to provide guests a better and more intimate game viewing experience.

End the ultimate safari experience under the stars around a campfire with hearty South African cuisine...

Families at Rhino River Lodge

Rhino River allows children from 4 years & upwards to join the adult drive. They have plenty of accommodation for families from the family suites to the private bush villas. Plus two of the luxury rooms are inter-leading. However there is no programme of activities for younger kids so this lodge suits families who want to spend as much time together as possible.

KwaZulu Natal is considered a low risk malarial area where anti-malaria prophylaxis is not required. However this is a decision for you to make.