Famous for its rhino conservation programe KwaZulu Natal has earned a reputation for wildlife management. The province is renowned throughout the world for its magnificent diversity of wildlife and reserves encompassing an amazing variety of landscapes. Sand forests, woodland, savanna, bushveld, and wetlands, provide habitats to a huge variety of wildlife and birdlife.
Game viewing is a popular pastime for both local and international tourists and KwaZulu Natal has an abundance of public and private game reserves. Accommodation is plentiful and varied and there is something for all budgets. Self cater in a secluded bush camp or be pampered at a 5 star luxury lodge. Destinations can be enjoyed in a Self-drive hire car or from 4×4 game vehicles. Horseback and walking safaris are available and are a stunning way to get up close to the bush.
Don’t forget that there are plenty of smaller reserves throughout the province which should not be overlooked. Be sure to check out what is available in the area you are visiting.
The KwaZulu Natal bush is teeming with wildlife and includes Africa’s ‘Big Five’ – Lion, Elephant, Rhino, Leopard and Buffalo. There is also an abundance of mammals, reptiles, amphibians and insects to be viewed. Giraffes silhouetted against the setting sun or a Cheetah sitting on a termite mound, are not only picture postcard images. They are a reality that you could experience on a visit to a KwaZulu Natal game reserve.
Birdlife is prolific with over 600 species being recorded throughout the province make it a prime destination for birders. Rare vultures include the Bearded and Palm Nut Vulture. Raptors are plentiful with Eagles, Buzzards and Kites being seen both in reserves or just sitting on telephone polls by the side of the road. Rollers and Bee Eaters provide colour and Hornbill and Ibis provide noise. Where ever you find yourself you will find birdlife.