KwaZulu Natal
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KwaZulu Natal forms South Africa’s east coast, running from Port Edward in the south to the Mozambique border. This is an area of lush green valleys, wonderful subtropical coastline and dramatic mountains. Stretching along the northern coastline is iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a world heritage site with beautiful lakes and forests. The Drakensberg Mountains are the highest mountain range in South Africa with panoramic passes, valleys, rivers, waterfalls and forests, characterise the landscape of what was formerly known as the Eastern Transvaal. The entire area offers opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, bird-watching, golfing and fishing. Hiking trails lead you to spectacular views as well as incredible rock art sites. Visit the magnificent Blyde River Canyon, a gigantic gorge 15 miles long carved out of the face of the Transvaal escarpments, where deep cylindrical holes have been formed by river erosion, or God’s Window, the canyon’s unsurpassed lookout point. Imagine taking it all in from an eagle’s perspective for the adrenaline rush, smooth jet-powered helicopters swoop over the dramatic rock formations of the Blyde River Canyon and through lush valleys bursting with vegetation and colour, hovering over river rapids and cascading waterfalls. KwaZulu Natal the Kingdom of the Zulus has witnessed some of the fiercest battles during the Anglo-Zulu wars.
As you explore you will find golden sun-kissed beaches, warm and friendly people and acres of coastal forest. Nature lovers will not be disappointed as there is an abundance of wildlife, plants and butterflies. You can relax in bed while birds sing and butterflies flutter outside your windown. The coastline is breeding ground for the leatherback and loggerhead turtles, whilst offshore humpback whales, tiger sharks and manta rays may also be seen. The days are full in the private reserves in Zululand, with a medley of boat and canoe trips for close-up looks at the bird life, crocs and hippos of ancient waterways, or tracking the elusive black rhino by foot. There is big-game fishing, diving the world’s southernmost reefs off the deserted coast of Maputaland, game drives delivering elephants, leopards and rhinos, or visiting the highest vegetated sand dunes in the world.
Amakhosi Safari Lodge
AmaKhosi translated from Zulu means 'The Place of the Kings' and is ideally located in a blend of savannah, wetlands and mountains and is home to quality 'big five' game viewing, prolific cheetah, 15 species of antelope and over 400 bird species. At the Heart of AmaKhosi Lodge is the most luxurious blend of river frontage. Riverbanks are home to the main lodge and six luxury river suites offering special views of the flowing Mkuze River. Each boasts a separate air-conditioned bedroom and lounge with fully stocked mini bar and ensuite bathroom with a unique bath made for two. This, dressed with an array of candles and bath salts, allows decadence to take on a whole new meaning bringing tranquillity and serenity to the lodge, fit for a king.
Fairmont Zimbali Lodge
On KwaZulu-Natal's Dolphin Coast, under an abundant forest canopy, you will find Zimbali, Zulu for valley of flowers. A sanctuary unlike any other in South Africa, this charming and unspoiled region is a nature lovers wonderland. All rooms at Fairmont Zimbali Lodge offer five-star luxury accommodation, designed to harmonize in tone and style with the natural surrounding forest.
Bathrooms are luxurious with freestanding Victorian baths and delightful attention to detail. Each room is well stocked with a selection of hot beverages, light snacks and a mini bar. Butlers are on hand to attend to guests’ every need.
Phinda Mountain Lodge, Maputland
Set within 23,000 hectares of Phinda Private Game Reserve, Mountain Lodge has 25 air-conditioned suites, each with ensuite bathrooms, sitting areas with private bar and spectacular viewing decks with plunge pool. Mountain Lodge provides the perfect setting for a family safari; a shaded swimming pool allows a wonderful place to relax. The guest dining and sitting areas, shaded terrace and bar opens onto decks with views of the Lebombo Mountains and bushveld.
Phinda Vlei Lodge, Maputland
Fringing Phinda’s unique vlei (wetland) system, this stunning safari lodge is a tribute of intimacy and integration with the African bush. Each of the six stilted glass and thatch suites are beautifully decorated and have private decks and personal plunge pool. The main areas at Phinda Vlei are stylishly designed and delicious cuisine is served to you in a variety of locations.
Phinda Forest Lodge, Maputland
Situated in the lush Maputaland region in northern KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Phinda's six splendid safari lodges offer sophisticated, luxury stilted suites with en suite showers, mini bar, tea/coffee making facilities and a private deck. All suites are glassed on 3 sides to bring the wilderness experience into your room, which are decorated with African accents and Zulu artefacts.
Thanda Private Game Reserve
Thanda Private Game Reserve is South Africa's top award-winning safari destination and is situated in northern Zululand, in close proximity to the Indian Ocean. The main lodge has nine bush villas offer guests the epitome of self-contained privacy and sheer luxury, with breathtaking views of the surrounding game reserve. Each villa has its own spacious lounge area and master bedroom with fireplace, full en suite bathroom complete with an enormous oval-shaped bath and indoor and outdoor showers. A thatched outdoor game-viewing deck and infinity pool offer refreshing solace from the summer heat and all villas are equipped with private bomas for an intimate and romantic dining experience. The tented camp has been built in colonial safari-style structure and is best suited to guests who are searching for an authentic safari experience. The four beautifully furnished tents have four-poster beds, en suite canvas bathrooms and magnificent views of the game reserve. Public facilities include an intimate dining tent, dramatic outdoor boma, stylish outdoor lounge and plunge pool for cool relief on hot summer days.
The Selborne Hotel, Spa & Golf Estate
This newly refurbished hotel makes a powerful impression with its mix of old world charm and discreet personalised service, whilst still maintaining all the cosmopolitan comforts and high standards that you would expect from a five star establishment. Decorated in an eclectic colonial style, Selborne’s accommodation boasts ultra-luxurious suites that range from the stately presidential suite to cosy golf course or garden suites, all offering superb comforts and pampering.
Fugitives’ Drift Lodge & Guesthouse, Rorke’s Drift
The reserve offers a choice of accommodation in either the Lodge or the Guest House. Evident in every corner of Fugitives’ Drift is the owner’s love of South Africa, its people and its unique history. Both the Lodge and Guest House have spacious and luxurious en-suite cottages which all have private verandahs and broad views over the plains flanking the Buffalo River Gorge. The Lodge and Guest House both have swimming pools set in their colourful, well established gardens which are home to innumerable bird species.
Three Tree Hill Lodge, The Battlefields
Surrounded by the Drakensberg Mountains, overlooking a secluded valley of the Spioenkop Game Reserve and in the lee of the famous hill, Spioenkop, lies Three Trees Lodge. The lodge consists of 6 standard luxury twin suites and a 2-bedroomed family suite. Each room has its own deck, which offers unimpeded views of the valley and Spionkop. A viewing deck and swimming pool offer complete relaxation in a truly African setting, situated in a secluded area under a large Acacia tree.
Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse, The Drakensberg
This charming little getaway is found high in the Natal Drakenberg. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, the fantastic setting, wild dιcor and superb food makes this a great base to explore the Drakensberg. Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse offers six very individual guest rooms, converted from the stables, luxuriously furnished with claw foot bathtubs. Exceptional five-course dinners are served in a stunningly situated dining room.
Teramok, Umhlanga Rocks
Set on the tropical Indian Ocean coastline amongst palm and giant milkwood trees, this luxurious haven is a five star boutique lodge. Teremok means “little hideaway” in Russian and is an oasis of serenity close to the beach. Just eight individually decorated suites are elegantly furnished each boast their own balcony offering breathtaking sea views or a vantage point of the land's park-like garden.
Zimbali Forest Suites, Ballito
It is a 5-Star boutique hotel offering five-star luxury accommodation, and is decorated to complement the natural surrounding forest. The classical architecture is accentuated by warm wood and russet autumn tones. The bathrooms are luxurious and feature Victorian baths from the turn of the century. Butlers are on hand to attend to the guest's every need including room service and a very select ensemble of delicious snacks and light meals grace the room service menu.
Isandlwana Lodge
Isandlwana Lodge is situated on one of the most historically fascinating and visually stunning locations in Zululand. It nestles in the iNyoni Rocks escarpment, just below where the Zulu commander stood during the famous victory over the British in 1879. Isandlwana Lodge offers twelve luxury rooms all en suite and tastefully decorated in a mixture of traditional and modern styles. Enjoy unparalleled views from your private balcony, from the crisp early light of a sparkling Zulu dawn to the splendour of the African sunset.
Shayamoya Tiger Fishing & Game Lodge
A truly unique lodge in Northern KwaZulu Natal where the view from the spectacular setting is particularly breathtaking as you gaze out onto Lake Jozini, the Lebombo Mountains and the Pongola Game Reserves. There are 8 standard chalets, which are appointed with stylish elegance. You can relax on your private deck and observe the curious behaviour of the scarlet-breasted sunbird or have a visit from the resident Spotted Eagle Owl, Nandi. Highlights include game drives, tiger fishing, boat cruises and birding.
Shayamanzi Houseboats
Explore an undiscovered, wild corner of KwaZulu Natal on the serene waters of Lake Jozini. From your comfortable houseboat enjoy the only overnight, on-water safari in South Africa, spotting game, fishing and marvelling at nature'’ wonders. Shayamanzi I has just six ensuite cabins with large patio style windows offering excellent views. Shayamanzi II is slightly larger, with ten air-conditioned, ensuite cabins.
The Boathouse
Popular for spotting the Bottle-nose dolphin feeding along it's shores, Ballito is at the heart of the Dolphin Coast. It is here, on the beachfront, that you will find The Boathouse. A luxury retreat inviting you to take a front seat in watching nature at play. With all the comfortable surroundings of soft furnishings and lush carpets you will soon find yourself at home at The Boathouse. Abundant patio areas offer a superb view of Salmon Bay and dolphins playing in the waves.
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
KwaZulu Natal Battlefields (2 days)
Depart from Durban, where enroute an expert Battlefield guide shares their impressive knowledge of the 1879 battle of Isandlawana. Continue on to Fugitives’ Drift and Rorke’s Drift. Visit to Boer war museum and Spioenkop Mountain. Over a picnic lunch the guide will recount the tragic battle between the Boers and British in 1900, where Winston Churchill, then a reporter and Gandhi, a stretcher bearer, witnessed this battle.
Rainbow Nation 16 days from £1755 per person
This Rainbow Nation tour showcases the very best that South Africa has to offer with the opportunity to witness some of the country’s most famous destinations and landmarks, including a visit to Nelson Mandela’s birthplace. You will also visit the mighty Drakensberg Mountains and the Wild Coast, which runs from East London to Port Edward and is an area of dramatic scenery.
Zulu Safari 9 days from £1605 per person
This guided overland tour showcases a fascinating combination of Zulu culture and the outstanding wilderness areas of St Lucia, a World Heritage Site, and the world renowned Kruger National park, one of the finest game viewing territories in Africa.
Fact File
Flying time: Approx 12 hours to Johannesburg and 1hr 10min to Durham
Time Difference: GMT +2 hours
Currency: South African Rand
Visas: British passport holders do not require a visa. Non-British passport holders should check with the South African Embassy.
Weather
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | 28 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 25 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 27 |
| Rainfall (inches) | 5 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
