KwaZulu Natal Game Reserves, South Africa (original) (raw)

Some of the best game reserves on the continent can be found in KwaZulu Natal, a scenic coastal province of South Africa. What sets this province apart is that it has effectively combined a world-class stay in a game lodge, some of the countries best game viewing with excellent SCUBA diving, snorkelling and deep-sea fishing in the Indian Ocean. The range of habitats � from dense bushveld to idyllic coastal dune forests � supports a wide array of wildlife, which only adds to the irresistible allure of South Africa.

The magnificent national parks in KwaZulu-Natal, which are teeming with incredible species that like the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhino), include the Isimangaliso Wetland Park and the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park. Both of these parks are acclaimed the world around for their beautiful landscapes and abundant fauna.

The iSimangaliso Wetland Park is incredibly diverse when it comes to the species it supports. In fact, there are more animal species here than in the Kruger National Park. This is no mean feat, considering that iSimangaliso (previously St Lucia Wetland Park) is only the third-largest park in South Africa. The gorgeous iSimangaliso is perched on the north-eastern border of KwaZulu-Natal, in the sublimely beautiful area of the Elephant Coast.

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi is the oldest national park in Africa and is famous for being home to the largest population of white rhinoceros in the world. In fact, it was established to save the southern white rhino from extinction. What�s more, it is only 2.5 hours' drive outside Durban and its international airport, making it easily accessible and the most popular game park in KwaZulu-Natal.

Game drives through the national parks and game reserves of KwaZulu Natal invite visitors to see some of Africa's wildest predators and most beautiful antelope, birds, and others in their natural habitat. Experienced guides share their insights on morning, evening and night drives; while visitors get to enjoy the best of South African animals in the wild.