The province of KwaZulu - Natal is a premier vacation destination for South Africans, with some of the finest game reserves in the country, including the Hluhluwe - Umfolozi Game Reserves. The reserve is small compared to the Kruger but here you will see the big 5 and plenty of plains game, plus an incredibly biologically diverse mix of plants and trees.
The nearby Mkuze and Itala game reserves are even smaller, but are still worth visiting for their numerous bird species and game. KwaZulu Natal's best private lodges, including Phinda and Thanda private reserves lie in the northern Zululand and Maputuland, a remote region close to Mozambique.
These lodges put you sufficiently close to one another and Hluhluwe - Umfolozi Game Reserve to allow you to put together a unique bush experience that delivers the Big 5 and a great deal more, including superb birdwatching opportunities and an unrivalled beach paradise. Malaria does prose a problem, however, and anti - malarial drugs are essential . Summers are extremely hot and humid, if you can't take heat and humidity, then autumn, winter and early summer are probably the best time to visit.
Herewith a list of Game Reserves worth visiting in KwaZulu Natal .
Hluhluwe - Umfolozi Game reserve - game viewing is good all year round. Another bonus is its proximity to Mkuze Game Reserve and the spectacular coastal reserves of Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park. The park is also close enough to Durban to make it worthwhile one - or two day excursion.
Mkuze Game Reserve - famous for its birds, more than 400 bird species have been spotted. Mkuze is better known as a birding mecca and some regulars consider it to be the single most productive bird-watching area in Southern Africa Although only a fraction of Krugers size, this is the place to find rhinos, there is a healthy population of both black and white rhinos. Several hides, particularly those overlooking Nsumo Pan, offer superb views.The reserve is 48 km north of Hluhluwe-Umfolozi.
Itala Game Reserve - Close to the Swaziland border. The other four of the big 5 are here - its excellent for black and white rhinos - and the park is stocked with cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, and an array of antelopes among its 80 mammal species. It's also a excellent spot for birders. The stunning landscapes and the relaxed game - viewing make this area a breath of fresh air after Big Five melee of Kruger .
Phinda Private Game Reserve - Established in 1991 this flagship and Beyond Reserve is a heartening example of tourism serving the environment. The Big five have established themselves firmly, and Phinda can claim a stunning variety of seven different eco - systems :sand forest, savanna, bushveldt, open woodland, and verdant wetlands. Phinda excels in the superb quality of its rangers, who can provide fascinating commentary on everything from local birds to frogs. Phinda offers many activities such as canoeing, rhino tracking on foot, flying safaris, village visits.
Thanda Private Game Reserve - Thanda is one of Kwazulu Natals newer game reserves.
Thanda, meaning 'love' in Zulu, is an expression of the magical union of the power of Zulu culture, wildlife, romance and exclusivity. Thanda Private Game Reserve is one of South Africa's top award winning safari destinations and is situated in northern Zululand, in close proximity to the Indian Ocean. The inimitable integration of South Africa's best climate and rehabilitated and rich bush land has made Thanda home to amazing wildlife and over four hundred bird species. Ignite your imagination and open your mind to an extraordinary experience for your soul, mind and body. Situated 23-kilometres north of Hluhluwe in Zululand, South Africa, Thanda Private Game Reserve is a celebration of the Zulu nation and their vibrant cultural tapestry. Located in the heart of the Elephant Coast, Thanda offers guests the Big Seven game experience encasing the illustrious Big Five within its 14,000 hectare borders. Its close proximity to the Indian Ocean ensures a balmy climate throughout the year
