Hluhluwe iMfolozi Game Reserve, South Africa
The Hluhluwe iMfolozi Game Reserve (iMfolozi is also spelled Umfolozi), one of the oldest game parks in Africa, is a conservation hotspot. While the rhinoceros, both white and black, have been the main beneficiary, game viewing at this 96,000 ha (237,220 acre) park extends beyond the square and pointed-lipped rhino. The reserve is home to all of the African 'Big 5' - lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo - as well as a variety of large and small mammals including giraffe, wild dog, zebra, kudu, waterbuck and wildebeest. With more than 400 species recorded, this game park is also a birders paradise. And whether you prefer self-drive safaris, guided bush walks, boat tours, wilderness trails (participants must be at least 14 years of age) or spying on wildlife from a hide, a trip to the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Game Reserve is an African adventure that offers plenty of family fun.
|
Getting there
The Hluhluwe iMfolozi Game Reserve is located 280 km (175 miles) north of Durban. For Memorial Gate, the northern entrance and recommended access point for the Hluhluwe area, take the Hluhluwe Village exit from the N2. Follow the tarred road to the entrance, roughly 15 km (9 miles). For the Nyalazi Gate, access to the iMfolozi area, exit the N2 at Nongoma Road, just north of Mtubatuba, and follow the signs for 27 km (17 miles) to Umfolozi.
Getting around
While self-drive safaris are the main attraction for families heading to this game reserve, guided night and day game drives, guided bush walks are offered daily and can be booked through the camp office. Two and three day guided wilderness walks are also available. Boat tours on the Hluhluwe Dam offer families a different view of wildlife as well as insight to Zulu culture.
When to travel
Game viewing is best during the dry season from May to August. While bird watching is excellent year-round, sunbirds attracted to the flowering Weeping Boer Bean trees make for a special sighting in spring and summer, November to February. The peak season (December, January, April and July) coincides with South African school holidays.
Travel health & child safety
Malaria is a risk in both areas of the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Game Reserve albeit the Hluhluwe portion of the reserve is considered a low risk area. In South Africa, malaria is a risk in some coastal areas as well as the provinces bordering Mozambique.
Opening hours
Reserve gates are open in summer (November to February) from 5:00 to 19:00 and in winter (March to October) from 6:00 to 18:00. The office at Memorial Gate is open from 6:00 to 18:00 whereas the office at Nyalazi is open from 8:00 to 12:30 and from 14:00 to 16:30.
Contact details
For additional information on the reserve dial +27 (0)33 845 1002 or send an email to webmail@kznwildlife.com.
Things to keep in mind
KZN Wildlife imposes a minimum age restriction on all wilderness trails. Children between 14 and 16 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Children under the age of 14 are not allowed on wilderness trails.
|
