Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve – Zululand’s Treasure
Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve abounds in natural, historical and cultural heritage. Located within Zululand, Hluhluwe is Africa's oldest game reserve known for the great Zulu kings Shaka and Dingiswayo who cared for the land. Because of decades of conservation, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is home to a diversity of wildlife including the renowned Big-5.
Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve was founded back in 1895. Since that time, game viewing has been the top attraction to the area. With extensive trail networks and waterhole viewing hides, tourists are able to get close views of Africa’s stunning animal life. Hluhluwe has become well-known for Operation Rhino, a project aimed at the preservation of the vulnerable white rhino population. The park’s brilliant wilderness trails have also brought it much recognition. Hluhluwe-Imfolozi has also just recently upgraded its game capture unit into the Centenary Capture Center, leading the way in safe animal capture and sustainable utilization. This impressive game reserve encompasses around 96 000 hectares of pure African wilderness. Within its border is a fantastic diversity of plant and animal life. Hluhluwe is stands out with its particularly hilly topography. Aside from viewing the famous Big 5, visitors can take in the abundant bird life, a variety of antelope, giraffe, lizards, snakes and many species of creepy-crawlies.
Activities promoted in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park are centered around the magical landscape and natural wonders. Auto trails through the park allow visitors to explore the park in their own vehicle. Game drives are hosted by the reserve. Aboard a special game drive vehicle with a trained guide you can gain deeper insight into the beautiful surroundings of Hluhluwe. Those who prefer traveling by foot can either make their way through the park on self-guided foot trails in Imfolozi or on guided day walks. Guide books mark out the trails at Enkulu, Masinda Ncane and Emonyeni Mpila. Picnic sites with ablution blocks are scattered through the park for the convenience of visitors. Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park’s wilderness trails are ideal for those who want to become one with nature and enjoy a bit of physical exertion. Between March and December visitors can hike for 3 days into the depths of the African bush. If you are fit enough, this is an opportunity not to be missed.
Not only does Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve offer an amazing wildlife experience but it also ensures that all its visitors have a lovely stay in a variety of accommodations. Hilltop is both a luxury lodge and a self-catering venue. Here you will also find a fine a la carte restaurant, warm lounge and great pub as well as a convenience store and curio shop. Hlaza Hide is located right nearby offering great opportunities to just sit and relax whilst viewing game. Mtwazi Lodge is set in a lovely garden and was previously the first reserve warden’s house. Muntulu and Munyawaneni bush lodges are exclusive lodges each room featuring its own private verandah. Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park offers a truly rounded bush experience with absolute luxury enclosed by the sights, sounds and smells of Africa’s wilderness.