Pre-plan your trip as much as possible using our site and relevant links. Book accommodation required in advance to avoid any problems and disappointment. The KZN Website provides details of all reserves, listing various options on places to stay, facilities, and details of wildlife to be found there.
On arrival at your destination pick up any literature including field guides, maps of the reserve and flora and fauna lists. Ask staff members at the check in desk for details on guided walks and both day and night game drives. These, where available, may need to be booked on arrival. If the reserve is asking for members of the public to report certain sightings take a form, you may be both lucky and be providing worthwhile data.
Staff may also be able to offer advice on where certain game can be found and in some receptions a pin-board will show recent wildlife movements. However this is not a guarantee as animals and birds are free to roam reserves.
Always follow the rules of the reserve. Drive carefully and stick to the speed limit. Do not get out of the car unless you are advised to do so at such places as self guide trails and hides. Never run, always walk along trails and stick to clearly marked pathways.
When driving do not leave the main tracks, do not follow 4-wheel drive tracks unless you have a 4-wheel drive car, keep out of other camps respecting the privacy of fellow guests and if a road is marked no entry it is for a reason.
Do not drive after dark and ensure you allow time to get back to your accommodation.
Self drive can be very rewarding and means you can traverse reserves at your own pace. Early morning drives and late afternoon drives are reputedly best however I have seen game at all hours of the day. If you are out early at first light take water and something to snack on. Plan your route and why not take a packed lunch and eat at a designated picnic site.
Observe all around you, animals large and small, birds and plants. Listen to the noise of the bush. Sniff the air and all your senses will come into play.
Drive slowly and ‘look through the bush’, your patients will be rewarded. Remember you are in the wild and that you have entered the domain of the wildlife the reserve is conserving.
If you encounter large animals such as elephant, rhino, hippo or buffalo keep at a safe distance and keep the engine running. The same rule applies with big cats such as lion, leopard and cheetah. The more discrete you are the better your viewing will be.
Swimming is only recommended if the reserve has a pool. Lakes and rivers are the home of crocodile and hippo! If you are at a beach reserve ask at reception before swimming.
If you choose to book a guided walk with one of KZN Wildlife’s trained guides they will run through any safety points. If you have any questions just ask. I have been on many bush walks and have never been disappointed. Day and night drives with a member of staff are also well worth while. Guides are a wealth of knowledge on all aspects of the bush and the environment. Animals, birds, insects, trees and history will all be on the agenda.
Follow our advice, ask questions if you are unsure, respect the environment you are in and enjoy. It is after all your safari!
Please take heed of the Warning Signs!