KwaZulu-Natal Safari
Why go on safari in KwaZulu-Natal?
KwaZulu-Natal’s game reserves offer an incredible diversity of wildlife set against some of South Africa’s most scenic backdrops. Rolling hills and mountains, tree-lined valleys, sand forests and dry riverbeds are exciting to explore in an open safari vehicle, while cruising through world-renowned wetlands and waterways adds a completely different dimension to the safari experience.
There is low to no malaria risk here, and the reserves are in a variety of locations so a safari can be easily included alongside KZN’s famous battlefields, mountains or coastline. Whether you prefer a delightfully authentic tented camp, a mountain lodge with a stunning view, a luxury lodge or a rustic forest hideaway, our experienced team will find the perfect match.
Wondering what to expect on safari? Read our guide.
Discover KwaZulu-Natal Safari
KwaZulu-Natal Safari Highlights
- While it is fair to say that leopard are rarely spotted in the KZN reserves, chances of spotting the remaining four of the iconic Big 5 (lion, elephant, rhino and buffalo) are good. Add to this the possibility of spotting the highly endangered cheetah or wild dog, rare nyala antelope and perhaps even the tiny suni and red duiker antelope which are rarely encountered elsewhere, and you have a thrilling safari. The birdlife is prolific too.
- The KZN reserves are generally less crowded than in other parts of the country, allowing for a more private safari experience with fewer vehicles. There are a number of well-run private reserves to choose from as well as the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve, the oldest wildlife park in South Africa.
- Some of the biggest conservation success stories are from KwaZulu-Natal. In the early 1900's the entire world population of white rhino was around 20, all of them living in this area. Recent population counts in South Africa estimate it to be over 12,000.
- iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa’s first World Heritage Site, has protected waterways, lakes, grasslands, coastal dunes and forests that you can explore by road, canoe, boat or on foot. It is home to South Africa’s largest population of free-roaming hippos, incredible birdlife and turtles nesting on the beaches (usually November - February). At its heart is the vast Lake St Lucia, a haven for hippos, pelicans, crocodiles and flamingos.
- It is possible to take part in or visit a conservation project at many of the reserves. Ask the African Pride team for their recommendations on where to do this.
Places to stay on safari in KwaZulu-Natal
When to travel for a KwaZulu-Natal Safari
KwaZulu-Natal is a year-round destination to visit, but as it covers such a vast area, the climate varies. We would recommend the best time to visit from April - September.
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KwaZulu-Natal Safari
KwaZulu-Natal has a high concentration of high-quality game reserves with a wide variety of habitats, from coastal wetlands to open bushveld. A safari here combines well with a visit to the battlefields and the Drakensberg Mountains.
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