KwaZulu-Natal

There is a fixed daily schedule at Tala, with game drives operating in the morning and afternoon, with coffee and sundowner stops to complete the experience. Spend the remainder of your day on a bush walk, at the pool or just relaxing in the privacy and comfort of your room. Tala’s main lodge also features an outdoor viewing deck, an ideal spot for sundowners just before dinner.

Dining options include La Tala Restaurant and traditional outdoor bomas, and our conference rooms make Tala ideal for day conferences, special occasions, weddings and tour groups visiting KwaZulu-Natal.

Tala Private Game Reserve is a wildlife conservancy hidden in the hills of a quiet farming community near Camperdown in KwaZulu-Natal. Low-key and off the well-beaten track, Tala spans some 3,000 hectares, encompassing a mix of acacia thornveld, open grassland and a sensitive wetland, which attracts more than 380 bird species, and plenty of big game, including kudu, hippo, buffalo, giraffe, wildebeest and eland. Being Malaria-free, with no large predators makes Tala a top-notch choice for families, and holidaymakers seeking a no-frills authentic bush break with the freedom to explore on your terms.

Accommodation at Tala is down-to-earth, secluded luxury. Along with a splendid mix of rooms across a collection of lodges and houses, with the option of self-catering in our Fisherman’s Cottage near the dam. While couples and solo travellers are most welcome, Tala is uniquely suited to larger groups.

Architecturally designed and delightfully comfortable, our three AA Highly Recommended Crab Apple Cottages are set on the edge of a pristine wilderness, the Dargle Valley Conservancy. Each thatched, self-catering cottage has a different character whilst being furnished with every comfort including underfloor heating to keep you snug. The bedroom has a queen-sized bed and there is an antique cast iron Victorian tub and shower in the en-suite bathroom. The spacious, open plan living area, with sleeper couch for children, leads onto a sun deck. Starred Robin Cottage has an additional loft with two single beds. Starred Robin and Wood Owl cottages have multi-fuel cast-iron stoves as fireplaces, while Crowned Eagle cottage has a large Spanish-style fireplace. Our delicious spring water, from the taps, is drinkable. Pets are permitted by arrangement.

It was at this very spot that Austin Roberts spent school holidays and which inspired his fascination with birds. The Roberts Book of Birds is a South African classic. Visitors can explore the same paths and enjoy the same bird life that he did all those years ago. Allow the peace and serenity to refresh you. Listen to the Jackal calling from the hills and the hum of the bees deep in the forest. Generations of visitors have experienced the soul restoring reassurance that comes with being surrounded by the beauty of creation. It is filled with ancient trees and abundant birds and animals including: porcupine, caracal, bushbuck, bush pigs, blue duiker and genes. Over 200 bird species are recorded in the Dargle and it teems with insect life, with 30 butterflies recorded in our valley. Special birds to be seen at Crab Apple include: Cape Parrot, Starred Robin, Crowned Eagle, Narina Trogan, Knysna Turaco. A full bird list and walking trails map are available on our website.

Traditional, Quirky or Cosy!

Choose between self-catering, dinner bed & breakfast or all inclusive packages. Bushwillow Collection offers 3 totally different accommodation style options to suit your mood.

Stay at our LODGE with warm wooden floors, reed ceilings and muted colours for a feeling of serenity and oneness with nature, together with good, honest home cooking.

Choose one of our BOUTIQUE self-catering chalets with private pool and quirky design and let the bright and cheerful colour schemes lift your spirit whilst still allowing nature to bring balance.

Retreat to our self-catering COTTAGE with thatched roof set under tall and rare Lebombo Wattles for a cosy and relaxing escape. Relax in the spa bath on the outside deck and listen to the sounds of the African night.

Approximately 280 bird species can be seen on the property alone and 4 Different habitats are accessible from Bushwillow – Sand forest, Thornveld, Wetlands, and Grasslands.

Self-guided walking trails allow guests to encounter game up close and the sand forest offers great birding opportunities. We offer a complimentary Bush walk to all our guests that is done by a qualified and experienced guide from Ukuhamba Guiding.

Bushwillow Collection is close to renowned birding spots like False bay Park, Hluhluwe Umfolozi Park, Mkhuze Game Reserve and the Isimangaliso Wetland Park, Mpempe pan, Muzi pan as well as Nibela Peninsulia and day trips can be organised along with Ryan Tippett, an experienced bird guide and owner of Ukuhamba guiding.

Birds to look out for: Pelicans, Flamingos, Sadle-billed stork, Avocets, African Fish Eagle, Narina Trogon, Rudd’s Apalis, Gorgeous Bushrike, African Broadbill, Neergaards Sunbird, Woodwards Batis, Southern Banded Snake-Eagle and Plain backed Sunbird to name just a few.

Malala Lodge, located 14 km south of Hluhluwe town, is situated on a 300 acre estate which has a variety of vegetation types, including lowland forest, woodland, grasslands and a dam and pans, both permanent and temporary.

Strips of lowland forest and thickets hold a diversity of forest species. Grey Sunbird is common here, and Purple-banded Sunbird is conspicuous on the fringes. Many species here are elusive, and are best located using their calls. Scaly-throated Honeyguides can be heard calling for long periods, while Gorgeous and Orange-breasted Bush-shrikes are seldom out of earshot. The hoot of Narina Trogons can sometimes be heard. Two sought after species, Green Malkoha and Eastern Nicator are fairly common in these habitats, but require determination in finding! Rudd’s Apalis is common throughout, and Grey Waxbills and White-throated Robin-chats are easily seen on forest edges. Rarer species found in woodland and on forest edges include Southern Banded Snake Eagle, Broad-billed Roller, Woodland Kingfisher and Grey-Tit Flycatcher.

In the grassland and scrubby woodland, several species of swallows and swifts hawk insects, and various raptors can be seen including Martial Eagle and Brown and Black-chested Snake Eagles. One of the main specials for this area is the Lemon-breasted Canary. Small groups of these special birds can be seen foraging near Acacia and Lala Palm thickets. Black Coucal is another sought after bird, and has been seen in rank grass. Collared Pratincole has also been seen in these grasslands, and Black-bellied Bustard is resident. A checklist is available for the property.

Nibela Lake Lodge, located on the northern shores of Lake St Lucia, blends almost magically into the rare sand forest surrounds. Eleven luxurious thatched chalets are situated high up in the cool forest beneath a magnificent canopy of trees, where guests can enjoy the solitude and tranquility of Africa at its best.

The Lodge and surrounds is one of the highest diversity areas for birds in South Africa. The area supports well over 400 species of birds, including numerous rare and endemic species. The Nibela Lake Lodge property does not have any dangerous game, making it one of the few reserves in Zululand where birders can still walk freely and explore the area without being confined to your car.

Aside from the luxurious chalets overlooking the lake, the lodge also boasts several private self-catering chalets, known as Sobhengu Lodge, an ideal private escape for larger groups and bird clubs.

Knowledgeable bird guides are available to take you exploring the sand forest trails where Narina Trogon, African Broadbill, Pink-throated Twinspot and Neergard’s Sunbirds abound. Or take a trip to explore the surrounding floodplains and pan systems where Rosy-throated Longclaws are a common sight as are flock of Pelican, Flamingos and other water birds….and there is always a great chance of turning up something more unusual such as Rufous-bellied Heron, Caspian Plovers and Lesser Jacana.

And if that isn’t enough birding to keep you busy, Nibela Lake lodge is just 30 minutes from Muzi Pans and the world famous uMkhuze Game Reserve, what more could a birder want?

Thornwood is situated on the private game park of Kuleni, which is home to four different ecosystems: sand forest, grasslands, wetland and thorn scrub.

A unique blend of luxury timber frame units, fit seamlessly into the indigenous bush with an abundance of bird life and game. This luxurious villa offers guests absolute privacy with a large living area, a private pool, private waterhole and a fully equipped kitchen, which opens up onto a large deck with a fire-pit.

The secluded lodge-style villa features four bedrooms. Two bedrooms are stand-alone cottages while the other two bedrooms are connected to the main house. All are en-suite and are fitted with air conditioning, ceiling fans and an additional feature of an outdoor shower. Relax in spacious comfort without losing intimacy with nature.

Predominantly self-catering, Thornwood can also cater for B&B or Dinner B&B bookings on special request. During your stay at Thornwood you can partake in self-guided walking trails around the park or sign up for a variety of excursions offered around the area. Join us for a Yoga or Business retreat and enjoy expanding your knowledge on our designated retreat deck found next to the private waterhole.

We pride ourselves of giving accommodation of a very high standard and making your holiday one to remember. Registered as a Birder Friendly Establishment with Birdlife SA and rated four stars by TGCSA.

Umziki Pan is a lovely, small family owned game farm situated in the heart of northern KZN and in fairly close proximity to False Bay Park, Mkuzi and Hluhluwe/Umfolozi Reserves as well as Sodwana Marine Reserve.

Umziki Pan is a Natural Heritage Site (No 67) and is host to many unusual and interesting trees in the Sand Forest area of the farm with characteristic and rare tree species such as the Butterfly tree (Cladostemon kirkii) amongst many other unique and magnificent species. Whether walking through the sand forest, visiting the natural spring or simply watching the water hole from the pool hide, expect the unexpected!

Birdlife includes species such as African Broadbill, Pink Throated Twinspot, Green Twinspot, Rudd’s Apalis, Southern Banded Snake Eagle, Green Malkhoa, Narina Trogon Eastern Nicator to name but a few of the many resident birds. Special mammalsinclude Suni antelope, Tonga red squirrel and the rare 4-toed elephant shrew.

Accommodation consists of comfortable, fully kitted, self-catering serviced thatched chalets as well as a 4 bedroom guest cottage (www.umzikipan.co.za). Total capacity is 17. There are no TV’s in units (night sounds have priority here) but cell phone coverage is good for MTN users.
The boma area and large swimming pool provides welcome relief after a long day’s outing, or as a spot, simply to spend time relaxing, reading and enjoying the peace and tranquillity of the farm.

As custodians of this farm since 1983, we are committed to conserving its very special fauna and flora. To this day, we are always surprised and delighted by unusual sightings – you just never know what you will see.

If you decide to visit us, we hope you enjoy it as much as we do – you will definitely leave rested and rejuvenated.

Set on 2000 hectares in a secluded valley on the southern side of the Inhluzane Mountain, in the Upper Dargle in the KZN Midlands, Tillietudlem offers an extraordinary eco-experience with a variety of activities available. Fly fishing, birding, horse rides and game walks, there are many ways to explore the diversity of this ecological treasure, available exclusively to guests. If it’s a quiet retreat you prefer, simply relax amidst the tranquility of Tillietudlem – host to a myriad of wildlife including rare and endangered animal and bird species plus a plethora of wild flowers and indigenous trees.

Accommodation is available in two lodges and a cottage. Whether you are looking for the pampered surrounds of the lovingly restored 105 year old Ogram’s Colonial house (rated 4-star and AA Superior Accommodation status with full catering) with its splendid views of the dams and mountains, or the seclusion of the self-catering Helga Manzi Lodge set over a spectacular 30 m waterfall and indigenous forest, or the Milk Parlour Cottage, perfect for two!

Tillietudlem is a part of one of the most threatened eco-systems in Africa – the mist-belt (or mountain) grasslands. More than 60% of the grasslands biome has already been modified, mostly under forestry or arable agriculture, and only 2,2% of the South Africa’s mountain grassland biome is under formal conservation, despite it being one of the world’s most bio-diverse habitats, hosting a plethora of wild flowers and grasses, greater than the acclaimed cape fynbos. The bio diversity of the eco-system supports a huge array of animal and bird species that come to feast on the treasures it holds.

The owner and management of Tillietudlem are passionately committed to protecting and encouraging the conservation of the area. Although the vast majority of Tillietudlem is in pristine virgin condition we have to continually fight the encroachment of invasive alien plants and are returning previously farmed areas to natural grassland. Due to the diversity of habitats at Tillietudlem, including wetlands, grasslands, indigenous forest, open waters and rivers, the birdlife is plentiful, from tiny sunbirds to commanding Secretarybirds.

Whether you are an avid twitcher or a novice birding enthusiast, you will definitely be able to add to your checklist. This will hopefully include a number of rare, protected or endangered birds: Grey Crowned, Blue and Wattled Crane, Blue Swallow, Cape Parrot and Half-collared Kingfisher. It is remarkable to think that the reserve has 5 different kingfishers and three species of sunbirds.

For those interested in raptors Tillietudlem is truly a Pandora’s box with more than seven species of eagles, five species of buzzards, kites, harriers, kestrels, hawks and vultures. You may even be fortunate enough to see the massive secretary birds hunting as they stride through the grassland.

Guided game walks, bird-watching and flora walks with our ranger are a great way to learn more about the flora and fauna of the area. Alternatively self-guided trials are provided for those keen to explore this African jewel of nature.

Nestled in a tranquil valley and surrounded by the rolling green hills of Ixopo, Kwazulu-Natal, King’s Grant invites you to take a step back in time and enjoy a well-earned break from the daily rush of life. Tastefully decorated B & B accommodation plus two fully-equipped self-catering suites, weddings, conferences, museum plus a licensed restaurant where one can enjoy delicious country cuisine.

King’s Grant is nestled in the valley of the St Isidor Estate and is surrounded by lush farmlands, dams, bushveld and wetlands. The varying habitats play host to extensive birdlife and invite you to explore their diverse beauty. In September of 1996, the farm was bought by neighbouring farmers David and Cheryl Biggs who have renamed it ‘King’s Grant’ – though retaining the name ‘St Isidor’ for the mill and chapel.

We encourage our guests to explore the estate and offer a number of walks and mountain biking routes with breath-taking views and hidden estate attractions. Tantalize your senses with a stroll around the lavender and herb gardens with their exquisite scents or relax on the edge of the small pond and stream that has been landscaped with indigenous splendour.

For keen birders, King’s Grant boasts abundant birdlife. The dams and wetlands, bushveld, grass and farmlands provide a rich variety of habitats attracting over 200 different species of birds, including fish eagles, crowned cranes and the Critically Endangered and Vulnerable blue swallow.

Gourmet picnic baskets and Sundowners can be arranged for those wanting to expand on their outdoor experience. Sites such as the secluded ‘Brickfield Valley’, home to the old Brickwork buildings and the tranquil dam which nestles amongst the reeds, the viewpoint from ‘Schreiber’s Hill’ as well as ‘Schreiber’s Dam’, all make for an unforgettable and scenic experience.

Alpine Heath Resort is an exclusive mountain village nestled in the midst of Northern Drakensberg. With a backdrop of the stunning mountains, this stylish Afro-Swiss designed resort blends perfectly into the landscape.

Alpine Heath Resort offers one hundred superb north-facing en-suite chalet accommodation with breath-taking views of the mountains, each equipped with telephone, good cellular reception, satellite TV, lots of privacy, comfortable lounges, fireplaces, self-catering kitchens and dining areas.

Set high in the majestic northern Drankensberg, midway between Durban and Johannesburg, 45km from Bergville in KwaZulu-Natal, Alpine Heath Resort is a stylish four-star Afro-Swiss designed mountain village, surrounded by crystal-clear streams and mountain-fresh air that blends perfectly with the landscape, and widely regarded as one of South Africa’s premier conference and holiday venues.

Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa is (TEST) situated along the banks of the picturesque Jozini dam of KwaZulu-Natal in the heart of the Kingdom of the Zulu with its rich heritage and untamed natural beauty. It is an exciting holiday destination which offers a perfect luxury getaway in the heart of nature.

The hotel is incredibly positioned soverlooking the Jozini Dam and is easily accessible from both Durban and Gauteng. The hotel itself boasts superb facilities such as a luxury Spa (Mangwanani Boutique Spa), gym, extensive conference and banqueting facilities, a wide variety of activities for all ages, and exceptional dining experiences. Ideal for weekends away, extended family holidays, conferencing, incentives, weddings, team building and international tour groups – this is a must-visit property.

The property is managed by the renowned Three Cities Group who’s unique portfolio of properties offer a diverse range of Africa’s finest hotels, resorts and game lodges in the major tourist and business centres of southern Africa.

We are located in a prime position in the heart of Zululand. Surrounded by World Heritage Sites, as well as some of the most acclaimed Nature Reserves in the world. Three Cities Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa is accessible from Johannesburg, Durban and the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands by road. There is also a road to the Kruger National Park via Swaziland. Some of the exciting locations available include the iSimangaliso Wetland Park (a UNESCO-declared World Heritage Site), the Maputaland Marine Reserve (located along the beautiful Maputaland South Coast) and many of the top game reserves in South Africa including:

•     Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve
•     Mkhuze Game Reserve
•     Ndumo Game Reserve
•     Tembe Elephant Park
•     Phongolo Game reserve (which is on the eastern shore of the Jozini Dam)

Nestled below the Ingeli Mountain range (between Harding and Kokstad, KwaZulu-Natal) and surrounded by breath taking indigenous forests, Ingeli Forest Resort is the perfect place to unwind. Ingeli Forest Lodge is an ideal weekend retreat for families who want to get away from the bustle of the city, where a mixture of country living and quality accommodation go hand in hand.

You will be spoilt for choice with forest, natural bush and mountains right on your doorstep. For those seeking a relaxed break-away, our swimming pool, lounges and library will be your oases. For those active and adventurous visitors, Ingeli offers tennis, the best mountain biking and trail running routes, as well as great hiking/walking, birding and exploring opportunities.

The area around Ingeli is a birders’ paradise. Hiking trails were laid out near the Lodge and caters for the more relaxed walker as well as the energetic nature lover. The prolific birdlife which occurs in Ingeli is attributable to the fact that the area comprises the most extensive and best preserved indigenous forests of the Natal mistbelt, about four thousand hectares in extent. A number of usually rare forest birds may therefore be seen in the vicinity of the Ingeli Forest Lodge. Birds that can be seen at the Lodge are Cape Parrot, Trumpeter Hornbill, Orange Ground Thrush, Tambourine Dove, Narina Trogan, Olive Woodpecker, to name a few.

Ingeli Forest Resort’s spacious and comfortable rooms, all having their own verandas, look out onto a tranquil forest setting. All the rooms have en-suite bathrooms, flat screen TVs, DSTV, tea and coffee making facilities, undercover parking.

Mpeti Lodge invites you to relax and treat yourself to being close to nature whilst sampling the delights of a Contemporary Culinary Safari. We believe your stay will offer you a natural haven with a feast for all your senses. Mpeti is easily accessible from the N2, on route to Mozambique, or through Jozini dam from Mpeti bay.

Mpeti provides luxury and self-catering accommodation as well a world-class restaurant headed up by renowned chef, Paul Eaton. The main lodge consists of 6 luxurious Deluxe suites and 1 Executive suite with a Jacuzzi. All suites are private and have their own patios, naturally screened by the beautiful Zululand Bushveld. The setting and the views are such that you will feel close to nature whilst affording the perfect chance to relax in a truly serene environment. All suites are stylishly fitted and come equipped with king sized beds, air-conditioning, mini bar, a safe, walk-in shower and raised oval bath where you can soak and take in the magnificent Natal vistas.

With a large deck area set amongst majestic Murula Trees, it is perfect for long lazy lunches and romantic dinners under the stars. This flows out onto a green oasis with a big rock pool for guests to enjoy.

Activities

• Enjoy the walking trail through the indigenous forest
• Birdwatching: there are two birdhides on the property
• Viewing waterbirds on the Jozini dam from a boat
• Visit our vulture restaurant

Our accommodation supports sustainable tourism, without minimising comfort; powered by the sun, complete with electric blankets, energy efficient lighting and appliances. Wood burning stoves efficiently heat the rooms, using sustainably harvested alien wood. Water is supplied from a forest stream, filtered and ready to drink, cool, straight from the tap. Natural cleaning products provide a fresh fragrance. Sample farm fresh organic produce and eggs. Picnic breakfasts and light dinners available on request.

The Garlick Cottage:
This private little cottage was the original Bramleigh house. It retains the vintage charm to offer a comforting home-from-home feel. Large bedroom with doors opening onto a private patio, bathroom with bath and shower, fully equipped kitchen, and lounge with wood burning stove. This cottage has exquisite views onto the forest, ideal for birdwatching. Sleeps 2.

The Coop Family Suite:
Large open plan bedroom with king sized four poster bed, lounge with fireplace and doors opening onto a private patio with a Weber braai. A second bedroom has twin beds and en-suite bathroom. The unit has two bathrooms, each with shower and vintage style bathtub, as well as a kitchen equipped for self-catering. Sleeps 4.

Orchard Suites:
2 suites, each sleeping 2, set in the fruit orchard, with king sized beds, wood burning stoves and an en-suite bathroom with shower and Victorian style bathtub. Each has tea and coffee making facilities, a mini bar fridge and private patio.

Birding specials on the reserve include Palmnut Vulture, Grey Crowned Crane, Narina Trogon, Black Stork, Buff-spotted Flufftail, Peregrine and Lanner Falcons, African Finfoot, Western Osprey, Gorgeous Bushshrike, Swee Waxbill, Green Twinspot, Bokmakierie, Knysna Turaco, and Southern Bald Ibis.

Habitats found on the Reserve include pristine savanna, woodland, valley thickets and wetland. Extensive cliff faces, deep valleys, waterfalls and well-wooded gorges provide unrivalled landscape photography opportunities. A network of trails allows one to explore all that the Reserve offers.

Accommodation

Cumberland offers camping and self-catering accommodation at affordable rates, equipped for a convenient and comfortable stay. The campsite is a bird-watchers’ paradise, where over 80 species can be recorded without venturing out.

The self-catering rooms sleep up to 14 guests and have access to a communal kitchen and lounge, perfect for larger family groups.

Situated near the banks of the Umgeni River, wake up to the cries of the African Fish Eagle at the Horseshoe Cottage.

For couples who love to ‘get away from it all’, The Kranz Hut boasts a jaw-dropping view, an outdoor shower and a kitchenette equipped with all the basics, including a gas fridge and gas stove. Rustic, but clean and comfortable, it’s a firm favourite!

Cobus and Karen Venter are the owners of this beautiful bushveld game farm in the heart of the Northern Kwazulu Natal bushveld.

Situated in the centre of the farm is the lodge surrounded by lush bushveld, allowing for that connecting and intimate experience with nature.

Offering accommodation for up to 14 guests, the lodge has a total of 6 en-suite, airconditioned bedrooms, while a self – catering central kitchen, lounge, dining area, bar and swimming pool compliments the facilities. Visitors who do not wish to cook, can opt for catering during their stay.

Belvedere Game Ranch covers 1400 hectares stocked with a variety of game including Buffalo, Giraffe, Kudu, Nyala, Impala, Warthog, Bushbuck, Zebra, Bluewildebeest, Red- and Grey Duiker and other small game species. It is a paradise for bird lovers and hosts a magnificent variety of tree species.

The farm has a network of bush tracks of 130 km you could explore with your bicycle, quad, bakkie or on foot.

Our butchery makes some of the best tasting venison products and is open 7 days a week.

Imvubu Lodge, meaning hippo in Zulu, was inspired by the famous “Huberta the Hippo” who undertook the historic journey from Zululand to East London. Tucked away in the lush greenbelt zone of Richards Bay, Imvubu Lodge is adjacent to the scenic Lake Menywa and the unspoilt beaches of the Indian Ocean. These pristine surroundings make bird watching an extraordinary experience.

The lodge is conveniently located within close proximity to the Tuzi Gazi Waterfront, the International heritage site of St Lucia and two world-class game reserves boasting the Big 5. Situated only 1.5 hours from Durban allows for easy access to splendid shopping centers, the Richards Bay airport, numerous restaurants, pubs, sporting facilities and emergency services.

We offer luxurious accommodation, in the form of 37 chalets. All chalets are fully serviced and air-conditioned, with easy access to our private beach, television and DSTV. Telephone and laptop facilities in selected units also available. 24-Hour security allows you to relax and forget about the stresses of everyday life whilst enjoying the tranquillity of nature.

Imvubu Lodge opened its A-la-carte restaurant for its guests as well as the public. The restaurant has stylist timber furnishings and a spectacular view over Lake Menywa. Our Chef is responsible for planning of the meals on the menu, conscious of nutrition and lends his own enchantment to exotic meals. The restaurant can seat 60 guests.

Nestling within the coastal dunes of South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal North Coast, the resort offers you options of caravan or camping sites which are of a generous size, level, grassed, and shaded with electrical power points and on site braai’s. We offer clean, well-appointed ablutions that are fully serviced, 24 hour patrolled and gated security and the resorts private beach access a fully holiday entertainment program all works towards ensuring that your stay is everything it can possibly be.

Other facilities of the resort include a Deep Sea boat and car wash area with separate Fish cleaning area, children’s playground, trampolines, volleyball, giant chess, paintball, large swimming pool a tiny tot’s swimming pool, as well as an 18 hole mini adventure golf course.

For year round idealistic holiday weather, be it for your annual vacation, or a long weekend getaway, Richards Bay Caravan Park offers you the ideal location. Set in sub-tropical surroundings, we even offer you idealistic weather conditions in the autumn and winter months at Richards Bay Caravan Park.

Tucked away in the lush greenbelt zone of Richards Bay, Richards Bay Caravan Park is adjacent to the scenic Lake Menywa and the unspoilt beaches of the Indian Ocean. These pristine surroundings make bird watching an extraordinary experience. We are conveniently located within close proximity to the Tuzi Gazi Waterfront, the International heritage site of St Lucia and two world-class game reserves boasting the Big 5.

Hippo Hideaway is situated on the banks of the St Lucia Estuary near the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve and this idyllic luxury lodge is your gateway to the unspoiled beaches of the Elephant Coast.

St Lucia and the surrounding areas are an absolute haven for nature and adventure lovers. The iSimangiliso Wetland was declared South Africa’s first Natural World Heritage site by UNESCO protocol. This has preserved the land as the most ecologically and historically diverse park in South Africa, with Nguni tribes as well as all the natural features living in harmony.

Five ecosystems are recognised in the site, yet they are intertwined in a natural dance so complex and perfect it takes a few days to understand this labyrinth of nature. Birdlife is abundant in the area.

The Western Indian ocean’s waters are warmed with a tropical Agullas current, so that water temperatures can easily reach 30 degrees Celsius; creating the tropical reefs that are home to hundreds of fish species, turtle and dolphin. A huge migratory population of whales makes an appearance in the area every winter.

Join us for sundowners under our thatched boma, and you’ll see why we say the best sunsets always come from Africa. Hippo Hideaway is situated on the banks of the St. Lucia estuary and is often blessed with the presence of a variety of wildlife coming up to graze in the early morning sun.

Hippo Hideaway is a luxury, self-catering resort. The chalets are beautifully appointed and decorated, giving you the luxury of a hotel with the convenience and privacy of self-catering chalet, with a breakfast option.

Hornbill House is situated in the tranquil and tropical village of St. Lucia in KwaZulu-Natal. The Bed & Breakfast offers well-appointed comfortable and fully serviced accommodation. All rooms have an en suite bathroom with tea and coffee available. Breakfast is either served on our deck or inside the dining room. Lunch and dinner is available on a variety of tours and safaris or can be enjoyed at a variety of restaurants in St. Lucia, all within walking distance of Hornbill House Bed & Breakfast Accommodation.

St. Lucia lies on the banks of the St. Lucia Estuary, and is unique as it is totally surrounded by the iSimangaliso Wetland Park (formerly known as The Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park), South Africa’s first natural World Heritage Site. The iSimangaliso Wetland Park boasts an abundance of game, over 500 bird species, 50 species of frog, five very distinct major ecosystems and much more.

SHAKAbarker TOURS

Thousands of birders annually visit St. Lucia, attracted by a record 526 species of birds. For the serious birders it is possible to go to sea to spot one of the many Albatrosses or for the novice birders take gentle river cruise, which will deliver pleasing results. But the most popular option for birders is a World Heritage Tour arranged by Shakabarker Tours, which visits the five ecosystems. Shakabarker Tours operates in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the Hluhluwe/Umfolozi Game Reserve.

Royston Hall is accessed via a narrow unpretentious suburban lane in Umtentweni by the same name. The House is set on a small Private Nature Reserve nestled in tall indigenous coastal forest adjacent to the mighty Umzimkulu River. It has a view of the Indian Ocean in the distance and the swimming beach is 2.3km from here. Royston Hall has five beautifully appointed double suites in order to guarantee privacy at a maximum of ten guests at any given time. The rooms are elegant, refurbished with a real intent to preserve the grand colonial splendour of the house. Breakfast is served on the veranda with a birds’ eye view over the Umzimkulu River accompanied by the cry of the Fish Eagles. Many species of birds might join you for their own breakfast by feeding in the Fig Trees around the swimming pool.

Meander down any of our Nature Trails and spend tranquil time observing the riot of bird life on our small private nature reserve nestled in tall coast forest. The Royston Hall Bird List sports 207 species.

Botanically the two valleys continue to reveal rare and exotic plants previously unknown to grow wild here. Various excursions arranged from our Conservancy are on offer.

All the well-known South Coast amenities are within close proximity as the N2 access is right nearby. This includes 10 World Class golf courses, deep sea diving and fishing, Malls and movies and Lake Eland Game Reserve.

Zinkwazi is ideally situated for birders wanting to visit some of the top birding destinations in southern Africa. We are part of the Zululand Birding Route extending Northwards, with prime forest habitats around Eshowe and Ngoye (all approx.70 km) hosting bird specials such as Green Barbet, Eastern Bronze-naped Pigeon, Green Malkoha, Yellow-streaked Greenbul, African Emerald Cuckoo and Narina Trogon. In the wetlands and thornveld around Eshowe and the Phobane Dam, Red-chested Flufftails, White-backed Night Herons and the most southern Rudd’s Apalis population occur. At Mtunzini (60km) and Richards Bay (with the Zululand information office of BirdLife, 100km), unique eastern sub-tropical estuarine habitats support massive wader populations, wetland birds and specials such as Palmut Vulture and Mangrove Kingfisher. The special habitat at Amatikulu (30km) also attracts Swamp Nightjar and Black Coucal. To the South there is the well-known Jex Estate (approx 30km) with Collared Pratincole and many unusual wader sightings. Stanger Tranquila Hide (20km) regularly makes birding news.

At Zinkwazi your accommodation is set in prime habitat, constantly surrounded by birdsong. The lodge grounds offer spectacular bird watching and are accessible at all times. We are available to help with advice, directions, checklists and site guides. BirdLife South Africa has accredited us as ‘Birder Friendly Establishment’. The AA has graded us as ‘Highly Recommended’, and we are Caraville Getaways approved.

We offer 3 types of accommodation:

• Zinkwazi Lagoon Lodge offers a unique coastal eco-experience, with bed and breakfast or full board, conference and activity packages available.
• Zinkwazi Forest Camp, an eco-camp site for the whole family, caters for all the needs of caravaners and campers.
• Zinkwazi Lagoon Chalets, our Self-catering option in various styles, fully equipped and beautifully set, designed for outdoor living at its best.

Enjoy sundowners with the canopy birds at our elevated Isifonya Pub on the sundeck and deliciously spicy meals, named after our birds, in the Raffia Restaurant. On site activities include swimming pool, shop, canoe- and nature trails. Catch the ferry to the protected beach or join a cruise on the lagoon aboard the Fish Eagle.