Big 5 Safari at Hluhluwe Imfolozi
Active
10h - 12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Africa’s oldest Big 5 game reserve and connect with vibrant local culture. Embark on a full-day safari adventure into the legendary Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Game Reserve, one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Spanning over 96,000 hectares of rolling savannah, riverine bush, and forested hills, this historic reserve is world-renowned for its pioneering rhino conservation efforts and extraordinary biodiversity.
As you explore the park, keep watch for the Big 5 — lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhino — along with cheetah, wild dog, giraffe, and an exceptional variety of birdlife. Your experienced guide will enrich the journey with fascinating insights into wildlife behaviour, conservation, and the cultural and historical significance of the region.
Midday, pause to enjoy a relaxed tapas-style or harvest-table picnic lunch (weather permitting), or dine at a scenic restaurant within the reserve, where sweeping views complete an unforgettable safari experience.
Available options
St Lucia Sunset & Stay
St Lucia : Stay over in St Lucia, enjoy the African Sunsets and explore this beautiful UNESCO world heritage site <br/>Hippo & Croc Boat cruise : Enjoy a relaxed Hippo & Crocodile Cruise through the tranquil waterways of iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage<br/>Duration: 2 days<br/>Hidden Gem Restaurant: Experience a local hidden gem restaurant where locals keep coming back for amazing cuisine and atmosphere<br/>Extend into St Lucia : Enjoy the vibrant town on St Lucia situated in a UNESCO World Heritage. <br/>iSimaglaiso Wetland Park : On Day 2 — Enjoy a remarkable wetland wilderness also home to the Big 5 and amazing biodiversity & landscapes<br/>Pickup included
Big 5 safari at Hluhluwe Imfolozi
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Alcoholic Beverages
Snacks
Coffee and/or Tea
Either a Picnic in the Bush (weather dependent) or a Bush Restaurant
Detailed itinerary
1
Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve is the premier game reserve in KwaZulu-Natal. It is Africa’s oldest conservation area, and is highly acclaimed for its remarkable "save the rhino" conservation project. This 96 000 hectare reserve is home to The Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo) as well as cheetah, wild dog, hyena, and a wide variety of antelope, birds, reptiles and plants. The game drive runs through what was once the royal hunting grounds of the Zulu King Shaka.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Durban
Durban is a vibrant coastal city in South Africa known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and warm tropical climate. It's a melting pot of cultures, offering a unique blend of African, Indian, and colonial influences.
Top Attractions
Golden Mile
A stretch of beautiful beaches along the Durban coastline, offering a variety of water sports, beach activities, and a vibrant promenade.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free to enter, activities vary in cost
uShaka Marine World
A popular theme park and marine park featuring a variety of attractions, including a water park, aquarium, and dolphin shows.
Entertainment
Full day
Moderate to expensive
Durban Botanical Gardens
A beautiful botanical garden featuring a variety of plant species, walking trails, and a heritage site.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free to enter, small fee for special exhibits
Victoria Street Market
A bustling market offering a variety of goods, including spices, textiles, and handmade crafts.
Market
1-2 hours
Budget to moderate
Durban Museum
A museum showcasing the natural and cultural history of Durban and the surrounding region.
Museum
1-2 hours
Budget
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bunny Chow
A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken, lamb, or beans. It's a popular street food in Durban.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Biltong
Dried, cured meat, similar to jerky, made from various types of meat such as beef, game, or ostrich.
Snack
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Bunny Chow
A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken, lamb, or beans. It's a popular street food in Durban.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Durban Curry
A spicy curry dish with roots in Indian cuisine, often made with chicken, lamb, or seafood, and flavored with local spices.
Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Popular Activities
Surfing
Hiking
Mountain biking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga
Cultural tours
Museum visits
Best Time to Visit
December to February
This is the summer season with warm temperatures, frequent rain showers, and bustling beaches. It's the peak tourist season with vibrant festivals and events.
23°C to 30°C
73°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Zulu, English
- Widely spoken: Zulu, English, Afrikaans, Xhosa
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
South African Rand (ZAR)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Durban is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and violent crime can occur, particularly in certain areas and at night. Exercise caution, be aware of your surroundings, and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night
Getting there
By air
- King Shaka International Airport • 35 km from city center
By train
Durban Station
By bus
Durban Bus Terminal, Grey Street Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
DART buses are affordable and convenient for getting around. They operate on dedicated bus lanes, making them faster than regular buses.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Berea
Morningside
Umgeni Road
Day trips
Valley of a Thousand Hills
30 km from Durban • Half day to full day
A scenic region known for its rolling hills, traditional Zulu villages, and cultural experiences. It offers a glimpse into rural Zulu life and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
St. Lucia
200 km from Durban • Full day or overnight
A coastal town in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife, and water activities. It's a popular destination for boat cruises, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting.
Drakensberg Mountains
250 km from Durban • Full day or overnight
A stunning mountain range known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a break from the city.
Festivals
Durban July • July
Durban International Film Festival • October
Sugar Rush Festival • December to January
Pro tips
- Visit the beach early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures
- Try local street food like bunny chow and samosas for an authentic Durban culinary experience
- Explore the city's cultural heritage by visiting the Victoria Street Market and the Durban Botanical Gardens
- Take a day trip to the Valley of a Thousand Hills for a scenic and cultural experience
- Attend a local event or festival, such as the Durban July or the Durban International Film Festival, for a unique and memorable experience
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
