KwaZulu-Natal

Two of the most sought-after national game reserves in South Africa are Hluhluwe-Umfolozi and the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park in Zululand. Established in 1895, Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Reserve is noted for its wide variety of both bird- and wildlife. Apart from game viewing drives, guided walks can be especially rewarding in the early morning and late afternoon. Experience the great outdoors in the company of the Big Five - lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant, and more species of mammals than anywhere else in Africa. Although sightings of these animals and birds are not guaranteed, experienced game rangers and trackers take visitors out in open safari vehicles to spots where there are usually sightings. The game rangers' wealth of knowledge of the bush and their own wildlife experiences make for interesting conversation around the fire.

The Wetlands Park is a World Heritage Site and encompasses an immense mosaic of habitats ranging from coral reefs, and endless beaches, coastal forests, salt and fresh water marshes to the drier woodland areas. This is a remarkably beautiful place. The Park;s location between subtropical and tropical Africa, as well as its coastal setting, has resulted in exceptional biodiversity, which includes large numbers of nesting turtles on the beaches, migrating whales, dolphins and whale sharks and more than 530 species of birds. This protected area is home to the largest population of hippopotamus in Africa, and approximately 1 000 crocodiles.