Magical KwaZulu-Natal

ABOUT THIS TRIP

The magical province of KwaZulu-Natal stands for the three big "B"s: mountains, bush, and beaches. Discover wonderful landscapes in the Drakensberg Mountains, experience Africa's impressive wildlife, including the Big Five, in private game reserves and state national parks, and finally relax on the endless beaches of the warm Dolphin Coast.

You don't want to drive yourself, but a small group tour doesn't have the right start date for you and a privately guided tour is too expensive? Then our English-speaking chauffeur-driven tours are just the right alternative. Your private chauffeur will take you from place to place, where you will then take part in guided day activities and excursions. However, you do not have the all-round support of a continuous tour guide. All chauffeur-driven tours can start daily and can be adapted to your wishes in advance. The more people take part in your own chauffeur-driven tour, the lower the price per person.

OVERNIGHT STATIONS

• 2x Bergville
• 2x Ulundi
• 2x Hluhluwe
• 2x iSimangaliso Wetland Park
• 1x Umhlanga

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 9x overnight stay in the Superior Plus category ****/*****
• 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 8 dinners
• private transfers according to program
• Drakensberg Sundowner Drive
• four game drives in the Babanango Private Game Reserve
• Four game drives in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park
• four guided activities in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park
• Access to the airport lounge on the day of departure
• Comprehensive travel documents according to the booked tour itinerary
• Local offices with 24-hour hotline (German/English)
• Travel insurance certificate

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• Meals not mentioned
• not mentioned or optional activities
• Flight performance
• Entrance fees and conservation fees not mentioned
• other personal expenses, tips
• personal travel insurance
• Continuous tour guide

DAY 1: DURBAN

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO BERGVILLE

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

DAY 1 TO DAY 3:

BERGVILLE

You drive to the northern Drakensberg near the small village of Bergville. This is the ideal starting point to explore the beautiful Royal Natal National Park with the famous mountain formation of the Amphitheater and the unique Tugela Falls. There are numerous hiking trails of varying lengths and levels of difficulty. The surrounding area also has a lot to offer with the Giants Castle Game Reserve, the Spioenkop Dam Nature Reserve and the Battlefields Route.

Stay in a chalet in the upscale Montusi Mountain Lodge with a view of the famous amphitheater. The well-kept and spacious outdoor area invites you to relax and unwind. Adventurous guests can reach all the highlights of the northern Drakensberg from here on day trips. The 14 detached chalets offer a bathroom/WC, a lounge area with a separate bedroom, a fan, underfloor heating, a fireplace, a TV, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker and a veranda with mountain views. The Family Suites have two separate bedrooms, each with its own bathroom/WC. The Mountain View Chalets also have a large skylight with mountain views from the bedroom. The lodge has a restaurant, a bar, an outdoor veranda with a view, a pool and a large garden. Several hiking trails to a small waterfall, to a cave with historical rock paintings or to the summit of Mountusi Peak start right outside the door. Horse riding can be organized at the hotel's own riding stable for a fee.

MONTUSI MOUNTAIN LODGE (MOUNTAIN SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 1: BERGVILLE

SCENIC SUNDOWNER 4X4 TRIP

You set off on a sundowner drive in an off-road vehicle to the private Montusi Estate with a fantastic view of the amphitheater in the light of the setting sun. Dusk is probably the most magical time in the mountains. With a bit of luck, you can also marvel at the typical wildlife of the Drakensberg on the way, as zebras, eland antelopes and other wild animals are not rare guests. On the way, you make a sundowner stop at a beautiful viewpoint.

This excursion starts in the afternoon and lasts approximately two hours. A sundowner drink and light snacks are included. The tour is conducted in English and may be shared with other participants.

DAY 2: BERGVILLE

TUGELA GORGE DAY HIKE

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 65 € PER PERSON

The Tugela Gorge Hike is definitely the most popular hike in the northern Drakensberg. From the parking lot of Thendele Camp in the Royal Natal National Park, you and your guide walk through the gorge of the Tugela River with its crystal-clear rock pools to the foot of the Tugela Falls, the second highest waterfall in the world. Along the way, you will have great views of the mountains, including the famous amphitheater.

You will make your own way to Royal Natal National Park; the guide from Montusi Mountain Lodge will accompany you in your vehicle. A transfer can be arranged for an additional fee. Conservation fees are included in the price, as is a light picnic lunch. This hike is conducted in English, and additional participants may join. It is considered moderate and lasts about five to six hours. The total distance is approximately 14 kilometers with an elevation gain of about 300 meters. A reasonable level of fitness and clothing appropriate for the weather and terrain, including proper footwear, are required.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 3: BERGVILLE

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO ULUNDI

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

DAY 3 TO DAY 5:

ULUNDI

Your destination is the approximately 20,000ha Babanango Private Game Reserve near Ulundi in the Highveld of the northern KwaZulu-Natal. The mountainous reserve with peaks of up to 1400m is malaria-free and is home to the Big Five as well as many other African wild animals. Over 450 cultural and historical sites dating back to the South African aborigines have been identified to date. In addition to classic game viewing, visitors also learn a lot about the history, nature and geology of the region. Babanango is a community project in which the surrounding local communities are involved.

The upscale Zulu Rock Lodge is perched atop a cliff with stunning views of the reserve below. The seven detached chalet suites feature a bathroom, air conditioning, a minibar, tea/coffee making facilities, a fireplace, and an outdoor deck with seating. The Deluxe Suites are located close to the Main Lodge, while the Luxury Suites offer more privacy. The spacious Romance Suite also features a private plunge pool on the outdoor deck. The Family Villa, protected by a game fence, consists of two bedrooms (each with its own bathroom), a lounge area with a kitchenette, and a private plunge pool on the outdoor deck. The lodge offers a viewing deck, a bar, a restaurant, a sundeck with a pool, and free Wi-Fi.

For each overnight stay you take part in two guided game drives in an open off-road vehicle (English-speaking, participation with other people), which take place in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast.

BABANANGO GAME RESERVE ZULU ROCK LODGE (LUXURY SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 5: ULUNDI

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO HLUHLUWE

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

DAY 5 TO DAY 7:

HLUHLUWE

Your next destination is the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, which is divided into the northern Hluhluwe section and the southern Imfolozi section. The two rivers of the same name gave the park its name. The park is home to the Big Five, i.e. elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos and buffalo, as well as many other African wild animals. The rhino population in particular is larger here than anywhere else in the world. With over 20000 hectares of rolling hills and open savannah, the park is one of the most beautiful state game reserves in South Africa.

The luxurious Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge is the only private lodge in the Hluhluwe section of the park and offers breathtaking views over the African bush. The lodge has an outdoor pool, sun deck, fire pit, bar, restaurant and spa area (for a fee). The 16 modern rooms have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a fan, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker, a safe, a private outdoor deck and free Wi-Fi. The Family Rooms have two separate bedrooms, each with its own bathroom/WC. The Luxury Bush Villas have an additional lounge area with fireplace and a larger outdoor deck. The Honeymoon Bush Villas also offer a private plunge pool on the outside deck.

You take part in two guided game drives per night in an open off-road vehicle (English-speaking, participation with other people), which take place in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast. You pay the entrance fees (conservation fees) on site.

RHINO RIDGE SAFARI LODGE (LUXURY BUSH VILLA)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 5 TO DAY 7:

HLUHLUWE

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 485 € PER PERSON

Your destination is the private Manyoni Game Reserve near Hluhluwe in northern KwaZulu-Natal, which covers around 24,000 hectares. The reserve is home to the Big Five and many other African wild animals. In contrast to the state-run Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park, only overnight guests have access to the private reserves. These are therefore much better suited to a short stay for unique game viewing. The small lodges also offer a very personal atmosphere. Specially trained rangers ensure a first-class nature experience.

The exclusive Leopard Mountain Lodge is perched on a hilltop and offers breathtaking views of the African bush, the Msunduze River in the valley, and the mighty Lebombo Mountains in the background. The nine detached luxury chalet suites feature an open-plan bathroom with a shower and separate toilet, air conditioning, a minibar, tea/coffee making facilities, and a veranda with an outdoor shower, seating, a hammock, a private plunge pool, and stunning views. The lodge offers a viewing deck, a bar, a restaurant, a boma (traditional dining area around a campfire), a spa area (available for a fee), and free Wi-Fi.

For each overnight stay you take part in two guided game drives in an open off-road vehicle (English-speaking, participation with other people), which take place in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

LEOPARD MOUNTAIN LODGE (LUXURY SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 7: HLUHLUWE

One-way transfer to Isimangaloso

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

DAY 7 TO DAY 9:

ISIMANGALISO WETLAND PARK

The iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a unique nature park consisting of wetlands and coastal areas, the likes of which cannot be found anywhere else in Africa. The park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. Covering an area of over 13,000 square kilometers, including 850 square kilometers of marine protected areas and a coastline of 220 kilometers, it offers breathtaking insights into various ecosystems and animal worlds. From the clear waters of the Indian Ocean and the largely untouched sandy beaches, there is a transition to forested dune areas and a mosaic of wetlands, grasslands, forests, lakes and savannah. Of the 6,500 animal and plant species most recently recorded, some are found only here or only in South Africa.

The luxurious Makakatana Bay Lodge is located about 30 minutes by car from the small town of St. Lucia in the middle of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park on the shores of Lake St. Lucia. The mixture of seclusion in nature as well as game viewing opportunities on land and water make this safari lodge a very special experience. The seven detached chalets offer maximum privacy and have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, safe, tea/coffee maker, minibar and an outdoor deck with outdoor shower and outdoor bathtub. The Family Suites have two separate bedrooms that share a bathroom/WC. The lodge offers an outdoor deck with pool, a lounge, a bar, a boma (traditional campfire dining area) and free Wi-Fi.

You will take part in two guided activities per overnight stay (game drives in an open off-road vehicle, boat trips on Lake St. Lucia, beach safaris), which are conducted in English with other people.

MAKAKATANA BAY LODGE (LUXURY SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 9: ST. LUCIA

ONE-WAY TRANSFER TO THE DURBAN AREA

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

DAY 9 TO DAY 10:

UMHLANGA

Continue to the metropolitan area of the lively metropolis of Durban. Visit the colorful markets or simply relax on one of the many excellent city beaches on the warm Indian Ocean, which invites you to swim here all year round. It is also worth visiting uShaka Marine World, a large aquarium and amusement park with stores and restaurants. The Moses Mabhida Stadium, inaugurated in 2010 for the World Cup, has become a tourist attraction.

The luxurious Teremok Lodge is located in the quiet suburb of Umhlanga, just a few meters from the sea with a great view of the subtropical nature. The beach with the famous lighthouse, stores and restaurants are all within walking distance. The eight suites are individually furnished and all have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a coffee/tea maker, a TV, a minibar, a safe and a balcony or veranda. The accommodation has a pool with sun loungers, a subtropical garden, a lounge, a bar and a spa area (for a fee).

TEREMOK MARINE (SUITE)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 10: UMHLANGA

ONE-WAY TRANSFER TO THE DURBAN AREA

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

DAY 10: DURBAN

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT LOUNGE

As an SA Travel customer, you are something very special and enjoy the comfort that otherwise only Business or First Class travelers can enjoy. Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle at the airport on the day of departure and keep your vacation relaxation going for as long as possible.

You will have access to the airport lounge at your international departure airport in Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban. The lounge offers free drinks, snacks, newspapers, TV, WiFi and washing and shower facilities (facilities may vary depending on the lounge). You can use the lounge at the earliest four hours before your departure. Please note that lounge capacity is limited, especially at smaller airports, and access cannot always be guaranteed or there may be waiting times at the entrance.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP

All prices quoted are subject to availability before booking and are based on the number of participants stated. Errors excepted. Alternative availability, seasonal overlaps or exchange rate fluctuations may lead to price changes. Please request your personal tour offer with your desired travel dates. This tour offer does not include flights.

The child rate applies to one child under the age of 12 staying in their parents' room. One child under the age of two stays free of charge. For children aged 12 and over, the adult rate generally applies. Not all accommodation allows children of all ages.

We recommend that you take out travel cancellation insurance and travel health insurance to cover the costs of assistance, including repatriation in the event of accident, illness or death. We can provide a corresponding offer on request.

A passport is required to enter the country. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa in advance. Minors under the age of 18 may need to carry additional documents. We will inform you of the exact requirements before you book. Travelers who have stayed in an area at risk of yellow fever must provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination.

The regions around the Kruger Park, the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and eastern Eswatini are malaria endangered areas.

This trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility. Please ask for suitable offers.

The organizer of this trip is South Africa Travel GmbH & Co. KG, Buddestraße 9, 33602 Bielefeld, Germany, Tel +49 521 33676880.

APPROXIMATE ADDITIONAL COSTS THAT ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

Long-haul flights to Southern Africa in Economy Class cost from EUR 900, while prices can be well over EUR 1000 in the high season. Flights in Premium Economy Class are available from 1500 EUR, in Business Class flights cost from 2500 EUR (per person for outward and return flights). All prices are average values depending on the airline and season. The actual prices at a given time depend on the number of bookings and may vary. Early booking is recommended, especially in the high season.

A light lunch costs about 5 EUR (small salad, soup) to 8 EUR (pizza, pasta, burger) per person; dinner costs about 10 EUR (pizza, pasta, burger, large salad) to over 12 EUR (steak, fish) up to 22 EUR (three-course meal) per person. Coffee, tea, beer, or soft drinks cost about 1.70 EUR per cup or glass. Prices may vary up or down depending on the region or type of restaurant.

Entrance fees to national parks cost between EUR 5 and EUR 25 per person per day, depending on the size and popularity of the park. Entrance fees to museums or other attractions cost between EUR 3 and EUR 20 per person. Children under the age of 12 usually pay half price.