Hluhluwe : Epic Explorer - Safari and Rural

KwaZulu-Natal , South Africa

Hluhluwe : Epic Explorer - Safari and Rural

Active

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 the captivating landscapes and rich wildlife of Zululand on this immersive tour. Discover the iconic Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, known for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife, including the Big Five. Experience the warmth of local communities and vibrant rural life as you journey through charming villages. This tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and gain insights from our knowledgeable guides on the region's ecology. Engage with a local community that borders the park, enjoy a tasty lunch before ending the day with a Traditional Zulu Village visit!

- The iconic "Big 5" Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, a true wildlife and nature enthusiasts dream.
- Engage with the KwaSmolo community and experience day-to-day life in rural Zululand.
- A must for travellers wanting to experience South Africa on a whole different and far more grassroots level!

Available options

Hluhluwe : Epic Explorer - Safari and Rural

What's included

We supply 2 extra bottled waters per guest

Your professional local guide for the day!

Traditional Zulu Dancing with the local Zulu Youth Dance Group

A traditional local "Shisanyama"...we call it a braai, you might prefer to say "barbeque"...either way, it's great!

All park entry fees are included as well as all admissions to the activities you will visit

Always included is your "sunrise" coffee and rusks to enjoy with breakfast

A light bush breakfast at a picnic sight in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

Detailed itinerary

Zululands premier game reserve - the iconic Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park. The oldest park in Africa and the park that brought the white rhino back from the brink of extinction. Once the royal hunting grounds of King Shaka, it is now the lifeblood of Zululand.

In the rural villages between the town of Hluhluwe and the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, lies the small community of KwaSmolo! The road leading directly to Memorial Gate entrance of Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park passes right through this community and every visitor going to the park must pass through this community to reach the park and yet no-one knows anything about day-to-day life of the people of KwaSmolo...until now that is! With absolutely no time schedule, all visits here are on an ad hoc basis, so that you get to experience day-to-day life in rural Zululand in the most natural setting possible as it happens because nobody knows you're coming. Visiting a school, Shembe Temple, Sangoma (Healer) and the local "Spaza" where you can buy a snack or a cold drink.

After the visit, enjoy a traditional "Shisanyama" (BBQ) with Pap & Shebo accommpanied by a local Zulu youth dance troupe - join in and have some fun!

After enjoying the local hospitality and lunch at Diza Travels/KwaSmolo Community, we take you to Dumazulu Traditional Village for look back into daily Zulu village life of days gone by!

What's not included

Gratuities/tips

Personal purchases

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Not suitable for travellers with mobility challenges

Meeting point

Our central meeting point in St Lucia for all visitors wanting to experience this full day activity from St Lucia.

Important notes

The guide meeting or fetching you will already have the lead travellers details and the number of travellers in the group. That is all that is required.

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.