Hluhluwe-Umfolozi: the complete guide to a successful safari
South Africa is full of majestic safari and the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve is no exception to the rule. Located just an hour from Saint Lucia, it is possible to visit the reserve during the day and come back to sleep in town.
Safari with white rhinos from Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve in South Africa
Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve is world famous for having saved the white rhino. The South African safari park is still home to the largest population of white and black rhino in the world.
Take a safari in Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park by car, mountain bike, on foot or on horseback
De many activities are proposed to meet the rhinos. You can discover the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi safari park by car or else book a personalised tour safari on horseback, on foot or by mountain bike. If you have already visited the Kruger National Park ou Addo Park Elephant by car and you went on a horse safari at Mlilwane wildlife sanctuary, then we strongly recommend that you try the ATV safaris. It is one of the specialties of the South African park which organizes competitions on 2 wheels every year.
ALTERNATIVE: go on a safari to Hluhluwe-Umfolozi in a private reserve
If you have chosen to travel the Kruger without private reserve (or if you have a private reserve at the Kruger and that you loved!), then why not indulge in a private reserve to go on a safari in Hluhluwe-Umfolozi? We recommend you Thanda Safari Lodge. This is the best of the best in South Africa.
The private reserve was even voted Africa's best luxury lodge at the World Travel Awards in 2013. The principle is the same as at the Kruger: the reserve has its own animals which live in total freedom in a large park of 14 hectares. You have a better chance of seeing the Big 000 here than in the national park. This is definitely the only way to see cheetahs unless you are extremely lucky ... Also the rangers are very informative and friendly. The price includes all meals with drinks (very good gastronomy with fine products morning, noon and night!) And two 5-hour jeep safaris (at dawn and late afternoon) with aperitif in the bush !
In the hottest of the day, you can lounge in your (huge) villa which has a private swimming pool and a free mini bar… In winter, the fireplace is lit in each villa and board games like Scrabble or Monopoly are available . In the evening you can relax in the spa with a massage or have a drink on the terrace in front of the small being where many animals come to be satisfied. In short, the dream!
After a day full of memories, you can recharge in your luxury room in the middle of nature and wake up in a magnificent setting with a view of the savannah in the early morning ... Just unforgettable.
Back to St Lucia in South Africa to sleep in the best tip of the city
If you do not stay overnight at Thanda Safari Lodge, we recommend that you stay in Saint Lucia to be able to enjoy its center and these restaurants. The best value for money in town is the B&B Little eden. Comfortable, well kept and clean, there is nothing to complain about.
Check availabilityIf complete, you can find more options than we recommend in our guide on the best accommodations in St Lucia.
To find out more about South Africa:
The itinéterre team
Itinéterre is a travel blog written by a team of expatriates and locals. They share their experiences so that you can enjoy the best tours in their countries. Their advice will help you plan your vacation easily as if a local is accompanying you!
