Hluwluwe Game Reserve and the nearby private game reserves offer game-viewing amidst stunning bush scenery. All can be easily combined with the Indian Ocean beach lodges for a safari and beach trip.
Scroll for more
The many KwaZulu Natal game lodges and reserves are not as well known as those in the Kruger Park. But you should definitely consider them, especially if you want to combine a safari with some beach time. As you can easily combine them with the Indian Ocean beach lodges on the coast.
The original game reserve, Hluhluwe Umfolozi Game Reserve, is the most famous of several parks in Northern KZN. Hluhluwe has good concentrations of white rhino, as well as elephant, black rhino, buffalo and many predators.
But it has been joined by several private game reserves which offer a huge diversity of habitats and therefore wildlife. Examples include Phinda Game Reserve, Manyoni Game Reserve and Amakhosi Private Game Reserves amongst others. These all offer the Big Five with probably a greater chance of seeing rhinos than anywhere else in the country.
North of Hluhluwe lies Mkuze Game Reserve. Mkuze is known for its excellent birding, especially in the summer months.
KwaZulu Natal is also one of the better areas for spotting the elusive cheetah. Though not guaranteed, you are more likely to spot Cheetah on a KwaZulu natal safari than in, say, the Kruger. As its open grasslands suit the cheetah far more.
The prices for KZN game lodges range from the uber-deluxe (Phinda & the like) to more affordable options. We have visited most of them.
We arrange private road transfers from either Richards Bay or Durban airport. Alternatively all these KwaZulu Natal game lodges are easily accessible by rental car.
Back to KwaZulu Natal Holiday pages
Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge is a new 4 star luxury lodge in a private concession in the 96 000 hectare Hluhluwe Park in Kwa Zulu Natal. It is great value for money with contemporary, eco-friendly architecture and a breathtaking view over the park.
The Manager, Dulcie, and all the staff are really friendly and the food was well prepared and presented.
On entering the Park you can get the Whats App number for the Hluhluwe Park group updates on wildlife sighting by other guests on what they see which could be useful in case you find yourself close to a really good sighting.
We entered Hluhluwe Park from the Northern Memorial Gate and it took us 1 hour and 15 minutes to get to the lodge. The roads are not in a great condition and it is best to drive slowly - as you are also on the look-out for wildlife. We saw buffalo and a lone rhino en route to the lodge. (When we departed we headed to the southern exit at Nyalazi Gate which took about 45-50 minutes.)
We would defiantly suggest a higher clearance vehicle if you are self-driving to the park. They did mention that the roads will be upgraded in the near future but are unsure exactly when this will be.
I travelled with my colleague and we each had our own en-suite safari room connected by a lobby so that can be used as a two bedroom suite for families. and they are busy building a playground for children which would work wonderful when you need a break from your young kids.
They also have some luxury bush villas so the lodge would suit both honeymooners or families. The two honeymoon villas have their own plunge pools however the main swimming pool has stunning view of the park and with the spa close by. I really see anyone having the most relaxing time after the 3 hour morning game drive.
Lindi our guide was very friendly and somewhat quirky which we really enjoyed. The Rhino sightings are excellent and although elephants might be harder to find we did spot a few both from the lodge deck and on our way out of the Reserve. We also saw lions playing in the river bed.
We enjoyed our stay at Rhino Ridge and want to thank Isibindi for hosting us!
Only the best African travel advice, tidbits and tours. No nonsense.
