Many of us forget that KwaZulu Natal is more than just a beach destination but boasts a collection of majestic mountains and pristine Big Five game reserves. It is a lesser-known safari destination, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a more exclusive experience. The oldest proclaimed game reserve is found in KwaZulu Natal, as well as a number of private game reserves. Here are the top safari lodges found in northern KwaZulu Natal.
Phinda Rock Lodge nestles in the 28 555 hectares private Munyawana Game Reserve. Phinda Rock Lodge is well known for its personalized service and romantic setting.
With only six secluded suites, Phinda Rock Lodge offers an exclusive safari experience. Each suite features an en-suite bathroom with outdoor shower, air conditioning, fireplace and a private viewing deck with plunge pool.
Phinda Rock Lodge offers an exciting range of safari activities, including morning and evening open-vehicle game drives, morning boat cruises, and guided bush walks.
Additional activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, deep sea fishing, Zulu village tours, night turtle drives (seasonal) and black rhino tracking on foot.
Positioned amongst a sand forest and grasslands, Phinda Forest Lodge is an intimate lodge with large trees that provide complete privacy.
The accommodation at Phinda Forest Lodge comprises of 18 glass-walled suites that are built on a raised platform. The luxurious suites feature en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning and verandas with comfortable seating and views of the bushveld. Antelope are often seen wandering between the suites.
The lodge facilities are exceptional and include an interactive kitchen, swimming pool, outdoor boma, gift shop, and big viewing decks offering unrivaled views across the vast plains.
Phinda Forest Lodge offers morning and evening open-vehicle game drives, morning boat cruises, and guided bush walks.
Additional activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, deep sea fishing, Zulu village tours, night turtle drives (seasonal) and black rhino tracking on foot.
The award-winning 14 000 hectare private Thanda Game Reserve is located along the Elephant Coast and boasts a safari lodge and tented camp.
Thanda Safari Lodge is luxurious and family-friendly, with nine incredibly spacious and private bush villas that look onto the pristine game reserve. Each villa has an en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower, spacious lounge area, fireplace, private deck, boma and infinity swimming pool.
The guests areas include a lounge, indoor and outdoor dining areas, library, business centre, wine cellar, cigar bar, wellness centre and expansive viewing decks.
The safari experience at Thanda includes morning and afternoon game drives, as well as guided bush walks. Other optional tours that must be pre-booked include rhino tracking, estuary cruises, elephant interactions, beach picnics and cultural Zulu village tours.
Bayala Safari Lodge is situated 3 hours from King Shaka Airport in the southernmost region of the Munyawana Game Reserve. The Munyawana Game Reserve also includes the Phinda and Zuka private concessions, all of which offer a Big Five safari experience.
Bayala Private Safari Lodge is newly renovated, boasting 24 thatch-roofed rooms that cater to the needs of couples and families. The lodge has a comfortable lounge, a rustic bar and relaxed, informal inside and outside dining areas and a sparkling swimming pool.
The safari experience at Bayala includes morning and afternoon game drives, bush walks and spa treatments.
