12 Of Our Favorite KwaZulu Natal Safari Lodges
A Guide With Rates & Reviews
KwaZulu Natal is an absolute gem for safari enthusiasts and offers a diverse and unique experience with the Drakensberg Mountain Range to the West, the Indian Ocean to the East, and all the safari bliss in between! And that’s not to mention the rich history and culture of the province. In this blog post we'll be focusing on the game reserves in KZN and the private game lodges in KZN.
How to get to the KwaZulu Natal Safari Lodges?
It is best to fly in to King Shaka International Airport near Umhlanga, Durban. From there the North Coast lodges (undeniably the best of the KZN game lodges) are easily reached in 2 – 3 hours by road. Inland we have Nambiti Private Game Reserve with multiple lodges which is reached in 3.5 hours, and the new Babanango Private Game Reserve which takes around 3 hours by road.
Is KwaZulu-Natal good for safari?
KwaZulu Natal offers brilliant wildlife viewing, in particular for rhino (both black and white) as well as cheetah. These 2 species can be very rare to see in other parts of the country which makes this destination unique. There is also a very healthy population of Nyala antelope, Kudu, and hippos to mention but a few. The rest of the Big 5 (lion, buffalo, elephant, leopard) are also prolific, although leopard sightings can be a little difficult to spot in most reserves. There is certainly no shortage of leopards though, however they tend to be shyer here compared with their Kruger counterparts.
The rates for an all-inclusive safari at private game lodges in KwaZulu Natal are also more affordable than the Greater Kruger area which gets you more for your buck and helps with lower budget travellers or travellers looking to extend their stay.
It is also a great location for exploring some of the richest historical areas and battlefields in South Africa.
Are there any disadvantages?
If we had to compare the reserves in KZN with the prestigious reserves in the Greater Kruger area then we must mention the difference in size. The Kruger National Park and Greater Kruger spans well over 2 million hectares which is as wild as it gets in South Africa. In contrast the private reserves in KZN are mostly fenced off areas, on average roughly 20 000 hectares in size.
Hluhluwe Imfolozi, KZN’s largest public reserve and the oldest in South Africa, itself is 90 000 hectares which is a very decent size but is still dwarfed by the Kruger area. The dream would be to drop more fences and combine more reserves in KZN. But it’s not all bad news as game viewing is often very good within a smaller area as the wildlife is easier to find.
However, one other disadvantage is the leopards in KZN are much more skittish and difficult to spot. Phinda would be the exception with their leopard sightings improving and becoming more and more common.
Why do tourists visit KwaZulu-Natal? What is it famous for?
A stunning coastline, the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, an abundance of wildlife, and the fascinating Zulu history and culture of the province. KZN truly has it all for a tourist destination with endless exploration and enjoyment. It boasts 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, namely The Drakensberg Mountains as mentioned before, and the Isimangaliso Wetland Park.
How does one choose the right KwaZulu Natal Safari Lodge?
It’s a good idea to first choose a game reserve before choosing your specific lodge. Larger game reserves usually translate into a more authentic and wild experience. You may also want to research what animals are common in each reserve as this can differ greatly from place to place. You may also want to consider if you’re wanting an all-inclusive and private safari, or a self-catering, self-drive safari experience. Both have their advantages and disadvantages.
The best private game reserves in KwaZulu Natal are Phinda Private Game Reserve, Manyoni Private Game Reserve, Thanda Private Game Reserve, Nambiti Private Game Reserve, Mkuze Falls Game Reserve.
In terms of national parks and public game reserves Isimangaliso Wetland Park, Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve and Mkuze Game Reserve are the largest and offer their own unique experiences.
There are game lodges for all budget types from rustic to luxury accommodation.
Below we will have a look at some of the best all-inclusive KwaZulu Natal safari lodges, priced from lowest to highest for your convenience. These per person per night prices include accommodation, all meals, selected drinks, and 2 game drives per day.
Please note that these are 2024 rates and are subject to change.
KwaZulu Natal Safari Lodges – Rates & Reviews
Budget Friendly Lodges
1. Tembe Elephant Park
R2290 pp/pn
Unreal value for money and the most affordable all-inclusive safari experience we know of! What’s more is at Tembe you’ll have the opportunity to witness some of the largest elephants in Africa!
It’s a large reserve at 30 000 hectares and is located on the border of Mozambique.
Accommodation is in simple yet comfortable tented suites that are well equipped with air conditioners and situated in a serene sand forest.
Tembe Elephant Park
2. Makhasa Game Lodge
R3200 pp/pn
The best rate you’ll find for the best wildlife viewing! Makhasa is located in the same reserve as Phinda (the greater Munywana Game Reserve) and offers exceptional wildlife viewing. The accommodation is semi-luxury, nothing too fancy, but very comfortable, and the hospitality is warm and welcoming. They’re also able to traverse over 12 000 hectares and through 7 distinct habitats.
This is a great option for wildlife lovers on a budget!
Makhasa Game Lodge
3. Ndaka Safari Lodge
R3600 pp/pn
Our most family friendly, or more correctly child friendly safari option in KZN.
All ages are accepted on game drives which is very unique, and staff are trained and ready to take care of and entertain your kids as they learn and experience all things safari. There is also a playroom with child minders to ensure mom and dad can also relax and enjoy their holiday. Children just seem to thrive at this lodge!
Ndaka is located in Nambiti Game Reserve where there are a few other lodges, and although relatively small, wildlife sightings are numerous with lion, cheetah, rhino, elephant and buffalo commonly seen.
Ndaka Safari Lodge
4. Mkuze Falls Game Lodge
R4840 pp/pn
Mkuze Falls is a beautiful and authentic safari lodge that overlooks the Mkuze Waterfall for constant breathtaking views.
The Luxury Suites are built on platforms and the spacious veranda of each unit provides fantastic views of the river, the waterfall and the surrounding hills.
With only 2 lodges sharing 12 000 hectares of reserve, this gives guests the ability to stay with special sightings longer and explore the area with hardly any other vehicles or people around.
Mkuze Falls Game Lodge
Mid-range Lodges
5. Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge
R3590 pp/pn Safari Room
R6290 pp/pn Luxury Bush Villa
Situated in the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, the oldest in South Africa, Rhino Ridge sits on top of a ridge with stunning views overlooking the ancient bushveld. The lodge itself is modern and stylish at a very competitive price point.
The Safari Rooms are brilliant value for money, but our pick is the Luxury Bush Villas which are beautifully styled and spaced apart for privacy.
The wildlife viewing is decent too (especially if its rhinos you’re wanting to see), although drives do have to stick to the public roads in the park.
If a bit of luxury and style is what you’re after and the wildlife is more of a bonus, then this lodge will suit you well.
Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge
6. Mavela Game Lodge
R6060 pp/pn
Mavela’s recently upgraded luxury tents are definitely worth mentioning as they are beautifully designed and overlook the bushveld where big cats love to frequent. This camp is unfenced and if you love wildlife visitors in camp then you’ll love Mavela.
The camp atmosphere is exceedingly relaxing too, with a help yourself bar setting the tone for how things operate here. Make yourself at home and leave feeling like you’re a part of the Mavela family.
The wildlife viewing in Manyoni Game Reserve is outstanding too with lions, cheetah, and rhino worth mentioning specifically.
Mavela Game Lodge
Luxury Lodges
7. Leopard Mountain Safari Lodge
R5100 pp/pn to R10 000 pp/pn
The KZN safari lodge we send most of our guests to, and for good reason! Some love the views from the lodge and suites perched on top a hill that overlooks the Manyoni Private Game Reserve (some say the best views in KZN). Some love the suites themselves which are private, well-appointed, have private plunge pools and every amenity you will need. Others visit for the wildlife, which is outstanding, with cheetah, rhino and lion sightings being particularly prolific.
Although it’s almost certainly a combination of all of these aspects, we believe it’s the hospitality and camp atmosphere that really sets Leopard Mountain apart. Guests are made to feel right at home and a part of the Leopard Mountain family. The number of return guests is extremely high which reflects the quality of this lodge!
Leopard Mountain Safari Lodge
8. Makakatana Bay Lodge
R8602 pp/pn
Unique would be the best word to describe Makakatana. Why? Firstly, the Isimangaliso Wetland Park, where Makakatana is located, offers a safari experience that includes beaches, wetlands and the usual bushveld. Where else can you swim in the sea, take a boat cruise amongst hippos and crocs and have a game drive all in one day!
And if the marine life and wildlife isn’t enough, the birdlife in this area is phenomenal too!
The lodge itself is beautifully decorated and stylish, with private suites for both couples and families.
They offer so many activities such as beach excursions, whale watching, boat tours, safaris into Hluhluwe Imfolozi or in Isimangaliso itself to name a few.
If you love both the beach and the bush then this is for you!
Makakatana Bay Lodge
9. Rhino Sands Safari Camp
R9250 pp/pn
Save this lodge for your next trip to KZN! It should be quite difficult to pick a favourite amongst so many exceptional lodges, but ladies and gentlemen this is it for us! And here are the reasons:
It has an East African style and the whole camp is draped under canvas (luxury tented suites and main area) and is open air – our favourite style. It’s located in a gorgeous fever tree forest which is teaming with wildlife and with a very low impact on the environment (eco-friendly design and solar powered). It’s a very small and intimate camp with only 5 luxury canvas suites, each with their own plunge pools, huge outdoor shower, and bath with a view. The food is sensational and they can cater to any dietary requirements you may have. The hospitality is warm, welcoming and attentive. The wildlife viewing is outstanding as Rhino Sands is also situated in The Manyoni Private Game Reserve.
This lodge would suite couples looking for romance or a large group with the option for sole use.
Their sister lodge, Rhino River Lodge is worth a look too for a more budget-friendly option.
Rhino Sands Safari Camp
10. Thanda Safari Lodge
R9965 pp/pn
A really beautifully designed thatch lodge that is both very luxurious as well as child-friendly. The suites are spaced well apart for privacy and the camp atmosphere is absolutely magical! We just love the design and look of the architecture here!
There are 9 suites, all with private heated plunge pools and outside ‘sala’ or resting area.
The reserve itself is 14 000 hectares in size, and with only 3 lodges on the reserve wildlife sightings don’t get too busy as with other reserves. Wildlife is plentiful here which makes this a very well-rounded luxury safari experience.
Thanda Safari Lodge
11. Phinda Forest Lodge
R16 000 pp/pn
The floor to ceiling glass walls of Phinda Forest Lodge make it a very unique safari experience. The design and forest setting is breathtaking!
It’s one of the world’s first eco-friendly lodges that has been meticulously designed in perfect harmony with the ancient Sand Forest’s natural flow. We just love the ability to always have a view of what curious creatures could be visiting the camp.
It is also set in an exceptional part of the near 30 000 hectare Phinda game reserve which is undoubtedly the top wildlife viewing destination in KZN. Cheetah, black rhino, lion, and even the elusive leopard can be found here consistently.
This is a truly unique and world class, luxury safari experience!
Phinda Forest Lodge
Ultra-lux Lodges
12. Phinda Vlei Lodge
R20 720 pp/pn
Intimate and romantic would best describe Phinda Vlei Lodge which is located on the edge of the rare Sand Forest and overlooking a wetland (vlei). Wildlife is drawn to this area and you can enjoy a safari from your own suite or the camps public area. The reserve has 7 distinct habitats, making game drives that much more fascinating as you search for cheetah and black rhino which are particularly prolific here.
The 6 thatched suites are stunningly designed in an old-world luxury yet quirky style, and are very private and well-spaced apart. They each come with their own private plunge pool and game viewing deck as various wildlife amble on by all day.
You’ll have every luxury at your fingertips here as you enjoy this peaceful and staggeringly beautiful piece of heaven.
Phinda Vlei Lodge
Special Mentions
We could easily name 20+ lodges that you simply have to visit in KZN so here are a few more to add to your list and check out for yourself:
Phinda Rock Lodge (Ultra Lux)
Phinda Mountain Lodge (Luxury)
Phinda Zuka Lodge (Luxury)
Sungulwana Game Lodge (Mid-Range)
Bayala Safari Lodge (Budget)
Biyela Lodge (luxury)
Lions Valley Lodge (Mid-range)
Elephant Rock Lodge (Budget)
Nambiti Plains Lodge (Mid-range)
Nambiti Hills Lodge (Mid-range)
Umzolozolo Lodge (Budget)
Not to mention the relatively new Babanango Game Reserve and the lodges therein which are some of the most beautiful KwaZulu Natal game lodges offering good specials to establish themselves in KZN.
Mfulawozi - Biyela Lodge
As you can see KwaZulu Natal has a large variety of quality lodges to choose from and for all budget types. It’s is truly worth exploring this area and many of our recent guests have even rated KZN as their favourite destination during their travels around South Africa. There is something special here that is waiting for you to discover it.
If you’d like help choosing the right lodge to book, or would like our honest opinion and recommendations, then please don’t hesitate to reach out to us and we’ll happily assist:
Email: info@nalaafrica.com
Phone: +27716358491
