South Africa
Kwazulu-Natal - Elephant Coast Accommodation
Accommodation in Kwazulu-Natal - Elephant Coast
Amakhosi Safari Lodge
The Amakhosi Safari Lodge is situated in the Amakhosi Private Game Reserve, on the banks of the Mkuze River, right in the heart of Zululand. It boasts six luxurious river and two honeymoon suites, in complete harmony with their surroundings. Amakhosi also offers a private home experience. This hidden gem is a touch of paradise that can accommodate four guests.
Forest Lodge and Forest Villas
Forest Lodge & Forest Villas is a brand new upmarket Lodge which opened its doors on 01 May 2014 in the town of St Lucia, iSimangaliso world heritage site. The architectural qualities are seen throughout the building, for Forest Lodge in St. Lucia is a modern and contemporary building style. The owners have vast experience in tourism and their demands. The Lodge design evolves around the luxury and comfort of its clients. This is the first newly build Lodge in St Lucia for the past 10 years. Its design and rooms cater for the clients with specific demands. Forest Lodge & Forest Villas in St Lucia offers accommodation for the individual traveler as well as families and groups. Forest Lodge has a perfect position from where all activities in and around St Lucia can be explored. The owners of Forest Lodge & Forest Villas have a safari company which have concessions to do open-safari tours in Hluhluwe / Umfolozi Park as well as the iSimangaliso World Heritage Park. Welcome to the most unforgettable holiday destination with its treasure of marine and wildlife.
Lidiko Lodge
Lidiko Lodge is a family owned, intimate, 4 STAR lodge centrally situated in the village of St Lucia, Zululand, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, surrounded by the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Set above the Great St Lucia Lake, on a coastal dune, accommodation in the well-appointed 18 garden lodges is provided on a bed & breakfast basis. The park-like gardens and outdoor lounge of the lodge are ideal for bird watching, conversation, or enjoying quiet time. The pool is ideal to cool off or do some sun-soaking on the loungers around the pool.
Zululand Lodge
Watch the sunset over the African bush from our deck. Enjoy a bush walk along the banks of the Msineni River, spend time bird watching in the riverene forest or enjoy the wildlife in one of the surrounding big five game reserves. Zululand Lodge is located on a private wildlife concession bordering Phinda Game Reserve and offers tented, en-suite accommodation for up to 18 guests. Situated close to Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the coastal town of St Lucia.
Thonga Beach Lodge
This 24-bed luxury lodge is the ideal place to connect with one of Africa’s last pristine wilderness beaches and rediscover your place in it. The 12 thatched eco-sensitive rooms, with ocean or forest views, boast an earthy elegance, and are positioned to afford maximum privacy and minimal environmental impact. Natural materials of thatch, reeds and wood, sourced from the area create a seamless flow, while providing authentic textures to the minimalist spaces. Each room is on a raised platform nestled among indigenous forest in undulating dunes. Expansive glass windows and doors let in the ocean breeze and sounds, freeing one’s spirit and senses. Dreamy crisp linen and mosquito nets adorn the beds, while soft down-lighting creates a peaceful, serene ambience, perfect after a day under the African sun. Your very own wooden deck reaches out into the forest where you can enjoy morning coffee amidst birdsong, or cocktails under starlight. You can also enjoy excellent cuisine, al fresco on the dining deck or beach deck overlooking the sea. Treading lightly in this paradise will make you feel rejuvenated by nature and give you a special connection with the harmony of this extraordinary place.
Kosi Forest Lodge
Kosi Forest Lodge is situated within iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa’s first World Heritage Site, giving you the opportunity to experience exclusive, close encounters with the untouched African wilderness. The lodge is surrounded by untold biodiversity and beauty that you simply have to see for yourself. There is limited electricity, and candlelight gives the lodge a warm, romantic ambience reminiscent of wild African adventures of long ago. This is fitting for this ancient land with a mystical quality that you’ll never quite be able to describe. It’s a place where you can rediscover nature, and, even more importantly, rediscover yourself.
Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge
What sets Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge apart is a breathtaking combination of its expansive natural views and visionary architecture which strategically makes the most of its prime position overlooking a watering hole below the lodge and undulating hills typical of Zululand. Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge is situated on land belonging to the local Mpembeni Community which has been incorporated into the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park. This is a unique joint venture between the community, the park and a private company creating much needed employment and generating revenue for conservation via park fees and levies. The lodge features slick, contemporary design with natural finishes and boasts a deck that extends the entire length of the main lodge building, taking full advantage of the spectacular views. Whether you are looking for a quick weekend in the bush to recharge your batteries, a romantic honeymoon destination or an ideal spot for a family holiday Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge caters for everyone. We are ideally situated for guests travelling from Durban, Johannesburg or Swaziland. Consider combining your trip with our sister lodge Thonga Beach Lodge for a superb bush and beach experience or team up with some friends and add on a few days at one of the superb golf resorts on the North Coast of Kwa-Zulu Natal.
Phinda Homestead
Perched on the edge of a rare sand forest within the &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, the &Beyond Phinda Homestead offers an exclusive and intimate safari experience. This sole-use villa provides a sanctuary where every detail is tailored to your preferences, managed by a dedicated team including a ranger, tracker, chef, butler, and host. The spacious interiors seamlessly blend contemporary elegance with the comforting ambiance of a family home, and an interactive kitchen fosters shared moments and culinary delights. Surrounded by 29,866 hectares (73,800 acres) of protected wilderness, the Homestead is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering exceptional opportunities to encounter cheetah, black rhino, and the Big Five. Guests can immerse themselves in the wild with private traversing across seven unique habitats, ensuring secluded and unparalleled wildlife viewing. Beyond game drives, the private gym, spa, and pool provide ample space for relaxation and rejuvenation. &Beyond Phinda Homestead is more than just a luxurious retreat; it is a place where conservation and community are at the heart of the experience. With over 30 years of pioneering wildlife victories, including the rewilding of farming land and the active protection of endangered species, Phinda exemplifies responsible tourism. Guests can engage in conservation efforts, connect with local communities, and contribute to the ongoing legacy of protecting this extraordinary wilderness.
Phinda Forest Lodge
Nestled inside 1,000 hectares (2,471 acres) of Africa’s last remaining dry sand forest lies Phinda Forest Lodge, one of the world’s first eco-designed luxury safari lodges. With its seven distinct habitats, Phinda Private Game Reserve is often described as ‘Seven Worlds of Wonder’, a magnificent tapestry of woodland, grassland, wetland and forest, interspersed with mountain ranges, rivers, marshes and pans. Showcasing one of the continent’s finest game viewing experiences, the reserve is home to Africa’s Big Five, as well as 436 bird species. Set in a rare and beautiful sand forest, the glass walls of Phinda Forest Lodge’s 16 air-conditioned suites offer a sweeping view of one of the most unique ecosystems on the planet. A dense canopy provides privacy, and floor to ceiling windows invite the forest in, with the wonderful opportunity to view wildlife roaming outside your glass “bubble”, fluttering birds nesting in the foliage and the gentle rustle of forest sounds. On the edge of the forest, just before a clearing that overlooks a small waterhole, lies the lodge’s sparkling rim-flow swimming pool, an ideal respite in between game drives. Expansive decks in the spacious guest area, look out onto panoramic views of an open grassy meadow. In the evenings, when warm firelight welcomes you to the traditional African boma, wide-eyed bush babies watch inquisitively from the trees above, as you in indulge in a lantern-lit feast beneath a canvas of stars. Choose from a range of exciting Phinda Adventures such as a specialist walking and tracking safaris, a sleep-out under the stars, an infrared Night Eye drive, and other participative conservation experiences such rhino notching or pangolin tagging. Also on offer outside of the reserve, within easy access of the reserve are Zulu village tours, Africa Foundation community visits, a Maputaland exploration, Maputaland beach trips, night turtle drives (seasonal), scuba safaris, or an incredible ocean safari that offers you a host of marine life sightings. Specialist safaris can be arranged in advance and focus on special interests such as birding, photographic, family and private safaris.
Phinda Rock Lodge
Dramatically set into a cliff face, Phinda Rock Lodge’s six intimate and private suites are seemingly suspended over the deep valley below, providing breathtaking views of Phinda Private Game Reserve. This reserve showcases one of the continent’s finest Big Five game viewing experiences and displays a magnificent tapestry of seven unique landscapes. Located in close proximity to the unspoiled beaches and spectacular coral reefs of the Indian Ocean, the lodge offers an unmatched combination of bush and beach adventures. Each romantic suite, constructed from contoured stone, boasts solid wooden shutters and doors that open onto a private plunge pool and viewing deck. Featuring spacious en-suite bathrooms, four of the suites also offer outdoor showers. The lodge’s guest areas provide the perfect vantage point for viewing the reserve’s abundant birdlife and the wildlife roaming in the bush below. French doors open onto an extended outdoor deck, the perfect setting for al fresco meals, while a rooftop terrace provides a romantic venue for dining beneath the stars. Guests can choose from a range of exciting Phinda Adventures such as specialist walking and tracking safaris, sleepouts under the stars, and participative conservation experiences like rhino notching or pangolin tagging. The lodge also offers easy access to Zulu village visits, community experiences, Maputaland beach trips, seasonal night turtle drives, scuba safaris, and ocean safaris.
Phinda Zuka Lodge
Phinda Zuka Lodge, nestled in the emerald slopes of the Zuka Hills, offers an exclusive and intimate safari experience. This sole-use lodge is ideal for families or small groups seeking quiet luxury and a deep connection with nature. With only four thatched suites, it provides a flexible and personalized escape, allowing guests to slow down and feel completely at ease. The soulful spaces, crafted with natural textures and earthy tones, reflect the surrounding bushveld. Each suite features a private sala, perfect for enjoying slow mornings, in-room dining, or simply finding stillness amidst the adventure. The Family Suite, with its two interleading rooms, caters specifically to those traveling with children, fostering shared stories and creating lasting memories. The lodge's heart is the firepit and boma, strategically positioned to overlook a waterhole, drawing both wildlife and wonder. Here, evenings unfold with rich conversation and the rhythmic sounds of the wild. Beyond the lodge, guests can embark on iconic wildlife safaris, enjoying whispered secrets rather than crowded sightings of cheetah, black rhino, and rare antelope. Phinda Private Game Reserve is a land of contrasts, offering the unique opportunity to traverse seven ecosystems in a single game drive, from rare sand forest to open plains, ensuring no two journeys are ever the same. The lodge also prioritizes sustainability, with a strong commitment to conservation, community engagement, and eco-friendly practices.
Phinda Mountain Lodge
Perched on a hilltop, with wraparound views of the lush Lebombo foothills, Phinda Mountain Lodge is the ultimate family safari destination in Phinda Private Game Reserve. The iconic &BEYOND Phinda Private Game Reserve encompasses an impressive 28,555 hectares (70,560 acres) of protected wildlife land in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Showcasing one of the continent’s finest game viewing experiences, the reserve is home to Africa’s Big Five, as well as 436 bird species. Phinda Mountain Lodge features three room types, with 16 suites, six cottages (that can be turned into three adjoining family cottages), and one family suite. Natural light streams through the expansive glass windows of the suites and cottages, while private decks provide breathtaking views of natural beauty. Each accommodation option features an outdoor shower, well-stocked personal bars and private plunge pools. In the main area, guests can swap safari stories around the inviting bar and enjoy meals in the interactive kitchen, complete with a pizza oven (ideal fun for the kids to create their own dinner). A traditional stone and reed boma is illuminated by dozens of candles, and lanterns, and provides the ultimate setting for al fresco dinners. A sparkling lodge rim flow pool follows the natural curves of the mountain, while a new state-of-the-art gym is ideal for fitness fanatics, and a massage sala is available for those wanting to indulge in tranquil treatments. Choose from a range of exciting Phinda Adventures such as a specialist walking and tracking safaris, a sleepout under the stars, and other participative conservation experiences such rhino notching, elephant collaring or pangolin tagging. Also on offer outside of the reserve, within easy access of the reserve are Zulu village tours, Africa Foundation community visits, a Maputaland exploration, Maputaland beach trip, night turtle drives (seasonal), scuba safaris, or an incredible ocean safari that offers you a host of marine life sightings. Specialist safaris can be arranged in advance and focus on special interests such as birding, photographic, family and private safaris.
Phinda Vlei Lodge
Phinda Vlei Lodge is an intimate and romantic safari lodge nestled on the edge of a rare sand forest within the expansive Phinda Private Game Reserve. Overlooking a unique wetland system, the lodge offers an unparalleled Big Five game viewing experience across 29,866 hectares of diverse landscapes. Guests can enjoy unforgettable interpretive game drives led by expert rangers and trackers, as well as a wide array of optional bush and beach adventures. Each of the six air-conditioned, plantation-style suites provides exclusivity and breathtaking wildlife sightings. Blending old-world luxury with contemporary touches, the suites feature spacious bedrooms, luxurious en-suite bathrooms, dressing rooms, private lap pools, and game-viewing decks. The main guest area boasts a handsome library and a fire pit, perfect for pre-dinner drinks. Phinda Vlei Lodge offers a secluded, peaceful, and life-changing African bush experience, with an emphasis on conservation and community involvement.
Mkuze Falls Private Game Lodge
Situated in the heart of historic Zululand in the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal, Mkuze Falls Private Game Reserve is one of only two Private Game Reserves in the region where you can view the ‘Big 5’ – lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino, elephant and for bird lovers, nearly 430 species of birds are resident. Experience the unique richness that this peaceful part of Africa has to offer. It is a place of pure tastes and simple delights, celebrating the thrill of nature. This is the place with the sound and beauty of water falling seeps into your soul…
Zulu Nyala Game Lodge
Relax in the comfort of your beautifully appointed room or bask by the poolside in the African sun, then top off the day with refreshing cocktails from the comfort of the lodges balcony as a legendary African sunset unfolds. The lodge has a tennis court, a craft and curio centre, a games room, a bar and reading lounges to ensure that there’s always something to do. Zulu Nyala Private Game Reserve provides a unique bush experience in the heart of one of South Africa’s most diverse conservation regions.
Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge
The Heritage Safari Lodge was originally built in the 1940’s as a hotel and was a landmark pit stop for weary travelers between Maputo and Durban. Acquired in 1996, the gracious building was lovingly restored to its original colonial grandeur, enhanced with new accommodation, and tastefully themed to highlight Zululand’s unique cultural heritage. With buffet-style meals in our restaurant, the wide, welcoming veranda and our ‘human watering hole’ – the pub or thatched boma, warm and relaxing atmosphere is conducive to shared good times and conviviality. Sundowners are a fine part of old colonial tradition that really should be observed! The Zulu Nyala Heritage Hotel also has a small library, as well as a beautifully stocked curio shop for your browsing pleasure and be sure to keep an eye out for the impala, nyala, warthog, zebra, blesbok and Zulu nguni cattle that roam freely on the property.
Ezulwini Game Lodge
Ezulwini Game Lodge is set in the very heart of Zululand, famous for its wildlife, wetlands and Zulu culture. The main attractions in the area are the national game reserves - Hluhluwe/Imfolozi and Mkuze Game Reserve, and a World Heritage Site - Isimangaliso Park. Two un-spoilt beaches, Sodwana and Cape Vidal, which are only an hours drive away. Ezulwini Game Lodge has been a favorite holiday destination for families, corporates and hikers, offering a relaxed and tranquil atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Nestled amongst towering pale yellow fever trees and sand forest, on a 300ha private game and pineapple farm, Guests can walk freely and view plains game, numerous birds and the Livingstone Suni close by. The lodge offers comfortable accommodation for small and large tour groups and is ideally situated for corporate escapes with our fully equipped conference venue. With great opportunities for wildlife sightings, boundless hospitality, great food and affordable prices we ensure a memorable African bush holiday.
Whalesong Guest House
Whalesong Bed and Breakfast is situated on the Elephant Coast in the heart of the exquisite St Lucia World Heritage Site between Lake St Lucia and the Indian Ocean in South Africa. St Lucia won Kwazulu-Natal’s town of the year in 2010 and is unique in that it is the only private village in the world that is surrounded by a world heritage site (natural wilderness). This unique village provides the visitor with flexibility, comfort and freedom to come and go with ease. Come and experience our friendly environment where our intention is to ensure you have a pleasant and relaxing experience. We offer five air conditioned bedrooms and the en suite bathrooms are luxurious. Tea and coffee facilities are provided. Our delicious full English breakfast may be enjoyed in the dining room or on the sun drenched patio. Relax and enjoy sundowners by the pool or on the peaceful terrace at the end of the day. Large screen satellite TV with Premium DSTV is provided in the guest lounge. In our large garden we have a swimming pool and a lapa with comfortable sun loungers and complimentary swimming towels. Secure off road parking is available. We are less than 1km from the estuary, 3 beaches, shops, ATM and restaurants. We use Sun Synk Solar system to produce our electricity. Our aim is to leave you with treasured memories of your stay with us.
Pakamisa Private Game Reserve
Pakamisa Private Game Reserve is situated in northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, on the outskirts of the town of Pongola. The town lies to the south of Swaziland and is the perfect link between the Kruger National Park and Durban. The Reserve is in a remote area, providing the required isolation that has been dictated by the current Covid 19 virus protocols. In addition, the lodge offers only eight luxury suites limiting the number of guests to the Reserve – yet another positive during these unusual times. Pakamisa guarantees that all Covid protocols are strictly adhered to, and our staff have been fully briefed and trained. Despite the difficult times that the world is facing, time stands still in the bush. Peace and quiet are our normal and nothing can beat a holiday in the African veld. Pakamisa offers a range of activities and our speciality is horseback safaris. We are happy to accommodate both novice and experienced riders; with height and weight restrictions for the rider.
Sungulwane Private Game Lodge
Sungulwane is an exclusive, Big 5 Safari lodge on Zuka Private Game Reserve. With just 8 private chalets, it's the ultimate intimate African bush experience for you and a loved one, friends or the whole family.
iGwalagwala Guest House
St Lucia is the diamond of the champagne-kissed coast of Kwa-Zulu Natal iSimangaliso Wetland Park – meaning Miracle and Wonder- which is South Africa’s first World Heritage Site given its status by Unesco in 1999. iGwalagwala Guest House offers the warm hospitality of an owner managed, tranquil retreat nestled in nature with easy access to our gentle paced town which has a variety of restaurants, shops and an authentic Zulu market. Comfort, hospitality and privacy are of utmost importance to us for our guest. Our simply elegantly decorated guesthouse is spacious, sophisticated, modern mixed with old world décor and allows a feeling of luxury in the bush. We have 8 luxurious, uniquely decorated rooms, all en-suite with extra large walk-in showers. Sumptuous breakfast are served with birdsong in the background. Expert advice on the excursions available and attention to all your needs by our passionate team will ensure that you will come back for more.
Leopard Mountain
Leopard Mountain is a 5 Star, multiple award-winning, Big 5, family-run safari lodge set within the magnificent 58 000 acre Manyoni Private Game Reserve. Our Safari Lodge is intimate and exclusive. With only 9 luxury suites we are able to guarantee personalised service. The most breathtaking views in Zululand are seen here, from the meandering Msunduze River below to the distant Lebombo Mountains, where Africa's Great Rift Valley begins. Let us take your soul on a journey where you will discover the essential truth about yourself and your world, enticing your senses and enlivening your spirit along the way. Witness endless sunsets melting their final rays into the horizon, the smell of fresh rainfall over Africa's plains and a feeling of peace and tranquility as your African dream unfolds into a truly memorable reality. Wild animals roam freely over this vast wilderness providing spectacular game viewing and intimate encounters with some of Africa's most endangered species. At Leopard Mountain we aim to give our guests a holistic Safari experience featuring the planets Largest Land Mammal to the smallest insect or flower. This is where the journey begins...
Tandweni Villa
Escape to this luxurious private safari lodge set within the renowned Pongola Game Reserve in Zululand, South Africa. Offering a unique African bushveld getaway, the exclusive-use villa on the banks of Jozini Dam blends stylish accommodation, with spectacular wildlife and bird sightings and top-class tiger fishing.
Kosi Bay Lodge
Kosi Forest Lodge is an intimate lodge situated under a canopy of magnificent trees within a tranquil sand forest alongside the Kosi Lakes System, an unspoilt wilderness area that is part of the iSimangaliso World Heritage Park. This 20 bed lodge offers comfortable accommodation in wooden, canvas & thatch cabins, great home cooking and caters for a host of estuarine, beach and wilderness activities. Glamping at its best. A lovely sweeping pool overlooks Lake Shengeza where one can relax on the viewing deck in the shade of Umdoni trees while watching hippos & flamingoes in the lake. Daily guided canoe trips and walks through ancient Raphia Palm Forests are offered at no additional cost. Additional activities are a boat trip exploring this unique system of lakes and channels where one can see hippo, crocodile, rare birds like the Pels Fishing Owl and Palm Nut Vulture, included in this day trip is a picnic on the unspoilt shores of Bhanga Nek beach. Another additional activity is to join a 4x4 excursion to Kosi Bay Mouth viewing ancient Thonga Fish Traps and exceptional snorkeling in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Discover one of South Africa’s best ecotourist destinations.
Lazuli Bush Lodge
Living up to its namesake, with Lazuli meaning ‘Gemstone’ in Zulu – Lazuli Bush Lodge is truly part of the East Coast treasure chest. Specifically the ultramarine stone, its character emanates similar qualities of healing, awareness and self-care. It is regarded as a good-luck stone, offering infinite possibilities – akin to the feeling one gets when staying at the lodge. Lazuli Bush Lodge is a forest haven; a discreet and tranquil experience in the Kuleni Game Park of Kwazulu Natal. Located in the heart of the Elephant Coast, the lodge has access to iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve and Sodwana Bay, each area offering a range of entertainment and activities during your stay. From whale watching to classic game drives to turtle observation and snorkelling, you have endless options for outdoor excursions!
Ghost Mountain Inn
At the foot of the legendary Ghost Mountain in Mkuze, Northern KwaZulu-Natal lies the enchanting Ghost Mountain Inn. A tale of family, history and an innate love for Africa, this intimate and award-winning hotel is the ideal location from which to explore the game and coastal reserves of Zululand and the Elephant Coast. From the inevitable romance with Lake Jozini to the remarkable scenery of the Lebombo mountains, from the wildlife of uMkhuze Game Reserves and the heritage of the Zulu culture to the tranquility found at the spa, Ghost Mountain Inn promises an experience beyond compare.
Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa
Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa respectfully resembles a traditional Zulu stronghold set on a hilltop above the shores of Lake Jozini, in the far northern reaches of KwaZulu-Natal on the Elephant Coast. The lodge offers a sanctuary off the well-trodden tourist path, co-existing within the natural surrounds and tastefully paying homage to the local culture. It caters to business trips, honeymoons, or family getaways, providing a relaxed atmosphere, top-notch service, and personalized hospitality. At the heart of Jozini is an open-plan restaurant with a wrap-around viewing deck, perfect for enjoying views over the dam. The rooms feature sound amenities and simple, elegant furnishings with private balconies, natural wood furniture, and subtle African touches. The lodge offers a picturesque lakeside experience comparable to Lake Kariba. Beyond relaxation, Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa is well-positioned for exploring surrounding game reserves like St Lucia, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, Ndumu Game Reserve, and Tembe Elephant Park, making game viewing, walking, birding, and picnicking an easy feat. Guests can also enjoy leisurely afternoon safari cruises across the lake to encounter resident hippos.
Royal Thonga Safari Lodge
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN AFRICA’S CULTURAL HERITAGE SURROUNDED BY THE BIG 5 For holidaymakers planning a self-drive into southern Mozambique from KwaZulu-Natal, this is the perfect opportunity to add Royal Thonga Safari Lodge to your itinerary. This four-star establishment is the crown jewel of ‘the garden province’, quietly nestled within the perimeter of the game-rich Tembe Elephant Park. The trip is a three-and-a-half hour's drive from the King Shaka International Airport and we highly recommend an extended stay. Aside from the bounty of birds, butterflies and wildlife, Royal Thonga Safari Lodge is a treasure trove of outdoor activities that will occupy even the most adventurous visitors. Choose from 4x4 game drives, seek out the Big Five, enjoy guided walks through the Sand Forrest, and that’s just the start. Trips to the local village, the nearby cashew farm and butterfly tent must be included, too. For that perfect beach day, Royal Thonga is right on the doorstep of Kosi Bay, where families and friends can embark on loggerhead turtle tracking tours, snorkelling excursions and whale watching boat trips. Of course, if you want to put your feet up and unwind, Royal Thonga Safari Lodge is just the place to do it. Crafted with natural timber and thatch, the lodge emulates a local Thonga village building style, with focus on with luxurious touches. There is a swimming pool, on-site restaurant and plenty of quiet corners to enjoy a moment to yourself. The ambience is warm and soulful and each of the 14 villas, including our two family chalets, have been thoughtfully positioned to ensure total privacy. Rooms are well-appointed with quality furnishings and en-suite bathrooms complete with indoor and private outdoor showers. Private decks with seating offer a front-row seat to the glorious surroundings. It really is as good as it sounds! Day-visitors are also welcome at Royal Thonga Safari Lodge, and wheelchair facilities are available.
Gooderson Mtunzini Forest Lodge
Situated near the quiet town of Mtunzini on the north coast of KwaZulu-Natal, Gooderson Mtunzini Forest Lodge is just over an hours drive from Durban with direct access to the Midlands via Vryheid / Melmoth and Zululand. Nestled in a lush sand forest location bordering an expansive, unspoilt beach this small private resort offers a host of wonders for those who delight in natural surroundings, indigenous forests and lush vegetation. Our cosy log cabins offer a rustic ‘tree house’ experience, while at the same time providing all the comforts of home at your fingertips.
Gooderson Bushlands Game Lodge
Gooderson Bushlands Game Lodge offers an unforgettable African bush experience. Zululand accommodation in the heart of South Africa. Meet up with zebra, warthog, giraffe, nyala, wildebeest and impala. Enjoy the abundant bird life. Explore the fantastic Nyala guided walking trail. With top Hluhluwe game reserves nearby you are in for an unforgettable game viewing experience. Zululand accommodation at its best.
Bayala Private Safari Lodges
Bayala Private Safari Lodges are a welcoming and affordable safari lodge situated in a ‘Big 5’ game reserve just 3 hours north of Durban, South Africa, in the ancient kingdom of Zululand. Vast and enchanting, the Bayala wilderness forms part of and traverses a 12 000 ha area of a 30 000 ha private safari and conservation heartland providing outstanding wildlife safaris in South Africa where all of Africa’s wildlife greats roam free. Twice-daily safaris bring spectacular sightings of lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo and rhino in their natural world, along with cheetah, zebra, giraffe and a remarkable variety of other wildlife. Family-friendly and open-hearted, Bayala welcomes guests to two independently run lodges, each with 24 rooms offering all the essential comforts. At Bayala life is lived with homespun finesse, and the lodges provide chic lounges and bars, dining areas both indoors and out under star-sprinkled skies, and a pool deck that keeps close company with the wilderness. Rehabilitation of wilderness and restoration of wildlife are Bayala’s highest priorities. Guests have a privileged window into conservation-in-action, and are offered the opportunity to participate hands-on activites such as the dehorning of rhino. Green living and sustainability are also prized, and guests are invited into our earth-friendly way of life.
The St. Lucia Eco-Lodge
The St.Lucia EcoLodge is nestled between the St. Lucia Estuary, the Indian Ocean and the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and is an ideal point from which to explore South Africa’s first World Heritage Site. The region is blessed with an all round summer, making it comfortable throughout the year. The St. Lucia EcoLodge has been a favourite with South African and overseas leisure and business visitors for the past eighteen years. A lodge of this nature is a rare find on the sought after Elephant Coast of KwaZulu-Natal and is within easy reach of the major cities and the newly booming metropolitan areas of Richards Bay and Empangeni. The lodge adjoins the rich diversity of Zululand's wetland lakes and forests, while the sea and game reserves are a mere stones throw away. In fact hippo, leopard and a myriad of smaller mammals are residents or frequent visitors to the gardens of St Lucia!
ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe
Set on the magnificent Elephant Coast, you’ll get to experience spectacular accommodation near South Africa’s oldest Game Reserve, the 3-star ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe – the ultimate South African holiday destination. ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe offers a wide variety of affordable holiday accommodation including a 5-star self-catering safari lodge for a true bush experience. The hotel also offers packages for corporate and government guests with a wide range of intimate conferencing venues in the Zululand area. The Idyllic African Centerpiece is nestled between the Hluhluwe Game Reserve – home to the Big Five, and the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park, a world heritage site. Here you will experience the wild nature of Africa, rejoice in the luxury and revel in the friendly warmth of one of Africa’s most welcoming hotels.
Makakatana Bay Lodge
Makakatana Bay Lodge is set on the banks of Lake St Lucia within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park World Heritage Site, one of the few natural wonders left on earth. Where else in the world can you explore the magic and wonder of unspoiled beaches, vast wetlands, and roaming wildlife in a pristine game reserve and combine this with an unforgettable boat cruise on Africa's largest marine estuary? Our goal is to show off this unique wilderness gem, the perfect addition to a typical safari holiday. Join us for a bush and beach experience like no other, be it for a romantic weekend getaway or a memorable family holiday, Makakatana Bay Lodge is your ultimate game reserve and beach safari in Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN), South Africa, just a 2h30 drive from Durban's King Shaka International Airport.