Magical KwaZulu-Natal

ABOUT THIS TRIP

The magical province of KwaZulu-Natal is one of the most exciting regions in the country – always a little off the beaten tourist track. In a relatively small area, it offers everything that makes for a successful South African vacation: mighty mountain ranges in the southern and northern Drakensberg Mountains, endless and secluded beaches with year-round swimming on the Elephant Coast and Dolphin Coast, the metropolis of Durban as a fascinating melting pot of cultures, and, of course, the Big Five and many other wild animals deep in the African bush. Nowhere else in the world are as many rhinos living as in KwaZulu-Natal.

We are happy to change this tour itinerary or the rental car category according to your individual wishes. Please contact us for your personal offer. We recommend starting this tour in the South African winter months from April to October. Note: A four-wheel drive vehicle is not absolutely necessary for this trip, but a vehicle with a higher wheelbase is definitely helpful.

OVERNIGHT STATIONS

• 2x Oribi Gorge
• 2x Mooi River
• 2x Bergville
• 2x Ulundi
• 2x Hluhluwe
• 2x Kosi Bay
• 1x Umhlanga

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 13x overnight stay in the Superior Plus category ****/*****
• 13x breakfast, 6x lunch, 10x dinner
• 1x rental car class R (Toyota Corolla Cross SUV Automatic or similar)
• four game drives in the Babanango Game Reserve
• four game drives Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park
• four guided activities in Simangaliso 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
• Additional costs for rental car (conditions see below)

DAY 1 TO DAY 3 (APPROX. 190 KM):

ORIBI GORGE

Oribi Gorge is a breathtaking, 400-meter-deep gorge carved out by the Umzimkulwana River. It is located inland, about a 30-minute drive from Port Shepstone on the South Coast. The state-run Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve offers a variety of hiking trails within the gorge. In the Lake Eland Game Reserve, you can spot zebras and antelopes. For adventure seekers, there are several suspension bridges and ziplines across the gorge. The region is considered one of the best-kept secrets of southern KwaZulu-Natal.

The Gorge Lodge & Spa is a luxurious accommodation situated directly on the cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the gorge. All eight rooms feature a shower/toilet with a separate bathtub, air conditioning, a minibar, tea and coffee-making facilities, a TV, and a balcony overlooking the gorge. The approximately 50-square-meter suites are located in the lodge’s main building. The approximately 80-square-meter detached villas also feature a lounge area and an outdoor shower. The property offers a restaurant, a bar, a pool, a spa area (for a fee), and free Wi-Fi.

THE GORGE LODGE & SPA (SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 3 TO DAY 5 (APPROX. 320 KM):

MOOI RIVER

From the small town of Mooi River in the Natal Midlands, you can reach the central Drakensberg Mountains. Monks Cowl is the name of a peak in the Giants Castle Game Reserve that gave this beautiful hiking area its name. The region between Champagne Castle and the Cathkin Mountains is among South Africa’s most impressive mountain landscapes, with peaks reaching over 3,000 meters in height. In addition to an impressive variety of birdlife, the area is home to mammals such as antelopes and zebras. You’ll have the opportunity to discover cave paintings created by the San people, South Africa’s indigenous inhabitants.

Set against a breathtaking mountain backdrop, the upscale Qambathi Mountain Lodge offers an exclusive retreat for up to 16 guests. Each of the five rooms features a bathroom, air conditioning, tea and coffee making facilities, a safe, and free Wi-Fi. The Barnes Room and the Farmhouse Room open directly onto the pool deck. The Classroom Suite, Greenhouse Suite, and Stable Suite each have a private terrace. The Stable Suite also features a fireplace. The lodge features a bar, a restaurant, a pool deck, and a spa area (for a fee). Guided activities such as hikes, mountain biking, or horseback riding can be booked on-site for an additional fee.

QAMBATHI MOUNTAIN LODGE (STABLE SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 5 TO DAY 7 (APPROX. 180 KM):

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 5: BERGVILLE

SCENIC SUNDOWNER 4X4 TRIP

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 75 € PER PERSON

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.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 6: 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 7 TO DAY 9 (APPROX. 330 KM):

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 9 TO DAY 11 (APPROX. 190 KM):

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 9 TO DAY 11 (APPROX. 190 KM):

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 11 THROUGH DAY 13 (APPROX. 120 KM):

KOSI BAY

Kosi Bay is situated in the far north of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is a magical place of lakes, rivers, pristine beaches, bushveld and coastal forests. This 11,000ha and little-visited nature reserve on the border with Mozambique is a subtropical paradise that is home to over 250 bird species. A four-wheel drive vehicle or transfer is required to visit Kosi Bay.

Thonga Beach Lodge is not a typical beach resort, such as those found in Mozambique or Mauritius. Lovers of solitude and endless nature will get their money's worth here. The lodge is nestled between the endless white sandy beach and the untouched forests in the hinterland. A short boardwalk leads directly to the Indian Ocean, which is warm all year round. The elegantly rustic lodge has twelve rooms with bath/WC, air conditioning, minibar, safe, tea/coffee maker, safe and veranda. The Forest Rooms overlook the pristine forest. The Ocean View Rooms have a sea view. The Deluxe Ocean View Rooms also have a plunge pool on the veranda. The family units have two separate bedrooms, each with its own bathroom/WC. The lodge offers a restaurant, a bar, a lounge, a spa (for a fee), a pool, a terrace, a sun deck on the beach and free Wi-Fi in the communal area.

The accommodation price includes selected activities such as guided snorkeling tours, hikes, sunset cruises, cultural visits, seasonal turtle excursions from November to February, and return transfers between Sodwana Bay and the lodge. The activities and transfers are in English and take place with other people. Please note the transfer times listed in your tour book. Conservation fees are payable on site.

THONGA BEACH LODGE TWO-NIGHT PACKAGE (FOREST ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 13 TO DAY 14 (APPROX. 340 KM):

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 14 (APPROX. 20 KM): 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.

Please return your rental car to Durban Airport or the agreed location at least two hours before departure.

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.

Left-hand traffic prevails on the roads of southern Africa.

EUROPCAR/TEMPEST RENTAL CAR TERMS AND CONDITIONS

The following services are included in the price: unlimited free mileage, accident/theft insurance without excess (incl. damage to tires, roof, glass, underbody, oil pan, clutch), liability insurance up to 10 million euros, towing costs in the event of an accident, an additional driver, contract fee, local taxes and fees.

The following services are not included in the price and must be paid for locally: Gasoline, toll, deposit.

The following services are not included in the price and must be paid for locally if required: additional equipment e.g. navigation device, additional driver, young driver surcharge, traffic fines.

You will need a valid credit card issued to the main driver, an international driver's license and a passport to rent the vehicle. Each driver must be at least 21 years old and have held a driver's license for one year. The deposit is paid by credit card and will not be charged if the vehicle is returned with a full tank of fuel.

The local car rental company reserves the right to provide models of equal or higher value. The rental car mentioned is only an example of the confirmed vehicle class. The costs to be paid locally in ZAR are determined by the local car rental company and are subject to change without notice.

This is an excerpt from the car rental conditions of the local car rental company, which you will receive when booking, or in advance if you wish. You will conclude a contract in English for the use of the rental car on site.

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.

One liter of fuel (gasoline or diesel) costs about 1 EUR. Budget about 203 EUR for fuel on this trip. Some roads have tolls. Budget about 24 EUR for tolls on this trip.

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.