Richards Bay Shore Excursion: Small Group Hluhluwe & St Lucia

KwaZulu-Natal , South Africa

Richards Bay Shore Excursion: Small Group Hluhluwe & St Lucia

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All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This excursion offers the opportunity to spend the full day in the Hluhluwe & Imfolozi National Park, the oldest Game Reserve in South Africa, and situated in the heart of Zululand. After departing the harbour, spend the morning on a game drive in search of the wildlife.
This reserve is host to the Big 5 – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino – as well as many other exciting wildlife species. The area is also renowned for its exceptional birding.
After a light picnic lunch we depart for the village of St Lucia, where we and enjoy a 2 hour cruise on Lake St Lucia, one of South Africa’s 10 World Heritage sites. Here we will have the opportunity to view crocodiles and hippos in their natural habitat. After the boat trip we returning to Richards Bay port.

Available options

Open vehicle

open vehicle<br/>Pickup included

Closed vehicle

closed vehicle<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Entrance fee into Hluhluwe Umfolozi Game Reserve

St Lucia Boat Cruise

light lunch

Detailed itinerary

Spend the morning on a game drive in search of the wildlife.
This reserve is host to the Big 5 – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino – as well as many other exciting wildlife species. The area is also renowned for its exceptional birding.

Stop 2

We depart for the village of St Lucia, where we enjoy a 2 hour cruise on Lake St Lucia, one of South Africa’s 10 World Heritage sites. Here we will have the opportunity to view crocodiles and hippos in their natural habitat.

What's not included

Drinks and all extras not mentioned

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Minimum 2 guests required.

The Boat ride in St Lucia is weather dependent and departs at selected times. Possibility of other guests not from the Ship may join boat ride.

Tour departure is based on arrival and departure time of Cruise Ship.

Cullinan Guided Journeys strictly follow the SA Government approved TBCSA Health and Safety COVID-19 Protocols. Should guests present COVID-19 symptoms, COVID testing and quarantine will be at their own cost. We recommend that you ensure that your guests take adequate personal travel insurance cover before departure from home.

Ship should arrive night before or early morning and guests need to be disembarked by 07h30.

Ship departure time should not be before 20h00

Small Group Tour, guests may be joined by other guests who are on the same Cruise ship.

Important notes

Guests will be required to produce ticket to guide on arrival.

About KwaZulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal is a vibrant South African province known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife. From the lush subtropical coastlines to the dramatic Drakensberg mountains, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Top Attractions

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park is known for its diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, beaches, and coral reefs. It's a haven for wildlife and offers activities like birdwatching, hiking, and snorkeling.

Nature Full day to overnight Moderate

uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park features stunning mountain landscapes, waterfalls, and rock art. It's ideal for hiking, rock climbing, and cultural experiences.

Nature Full day to overnight Moderate

Durban

Durban is a vibrant coastal city known for its beaches, cultural diversity, and bustling markets. It's a great place to experience South African culture, enjoy local cuisine, and relax on the beach.

City Multiple days Budget to Expensive

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bunny Chow

A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, originating from the Indian community in Durban.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available, contains gluten.

Braai

A South African barbecue featuring grilled meats and vegetables.

Dinner Can be adapted for various dietary needs.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Drakensberg Scuba diving in Sodwana Bay White-water rafting in the Umkomaas River Beach lounging in Umhlanga Spa treatments in Durban Sunset cruises in the Indian Ocean Visiting traditional Zulu villages Exploring the Durban Art Gallery

Best Time to Visit

April to September

This is the dry season, offering pleasant weather and ideal conditions for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. It's also the peak tourist season, especially for game viewing in the reserves.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Zulu
Widely spoken: Afrikaans, Xhosa
English: Widely spoken

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220-240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

KwaZulu-Natal is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and occasional violence can occur. Be cautious, especially in urban areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis

Getting there

By air

King Shaka International Airport • 35 km from Durban

By train

Durban Station

By bus

Durban Bus Terminal, Johannesburg to Durban buses

Getting around

Public transport

The BRT system is efficient and covers most of Durban. Taxis and minibus taxis are also widely available but can be crowded and less comfortable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Umhlanga Ballito

Day trips

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

250 km from Durban • Full day to overnight

One of the oldest game reserves in Africa, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including the Big Five.

St. Lucia Estuary

200 km from Durban • Full day

A beautiful estuary system offering boat cruises, fishing, and wildlife viewing, including hippos and crocodiles.

Festivals

Durban International Film Festival • July Shembe Festival • December to January

Pro tips

Visit the iSimangaliso Wetland Park for a unique blend of ecosystems and wildlife.
Explore the Drakensberg mountains for stunning landscapes and hiking opportunities.
Experience the vibrant culture and cuisine of Durban, particularly in the Victoria Street Market.
Try local street food, such as bunny chow and samosas, for an authentic taste of KwaZulu-Natal.
Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season.