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Hluhlwe Imfolozi Game Reserve

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Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve Safaris

A tour to Zululand for a Hluhluwe Umfolozi Safari is an absolute must. This 96 000 hectare conservation area is know to be the oldest game reserve in Africa. Situated in the magical province of Kwa Zulu Natal in South Africa. Nestled in the heart of Zululand and once the Royal hunting grounds of the past Zulu kings, now the pride of South African conservation efforts. Home to Africa’s Big 5 and in particular, the densest population of White Rhino left on the continent!

Although not as large as the Kruger Park, it is too home to a diverse amount of mammal species, including all the big game Africa has to offer. This includes the endangered Wild Dog and Cheetah. What makes a visit to the Zululand area so special, is the amount of different reserves available to visit and their diversity. The iSimangaliso Wetland Park (St. Lucia) is a World Heritage site and is just a hour away from Hluhluwe. Nestled on the coast, this reserve gained World Heritage status in 1999, the first in South Africa. This is due to the massive diversity within the area, 5 major ecosystems to be exact, with a further 3 smaller ones, all interlinking into an incredible 350 000 hectare super wilderness.

Game drives, whale watching, turtle tours, kayaking, deep sea fishing, Hippo and Crocodile boat cruising on the estuary, are just a few of the great activities to be enjoyed in St. Lucia. A beautiful town, completely surrounded by the reserve and where a common occurrence is a Hippo strolling down the main street!!

Best Time To Visit

May to September (Dry season)

Best Weather

May to September (Dry season)

Animals

Big 5

Park Size

911km² / 352mi²

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Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Wildlife

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi offers excellent wildlife viewing and is home to the Big Five. Both rhino species are present, with white rhinos being particularly common. The dense vegetation can make spotting big cats challenging. Wild dogs, which have been reintroduced, are most likely to be seen during their active periods early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Scenery

The park features stunning scenery with rolling hills, valleys, forests, and grassy plains. Three rivers meander through the valleys, with the Hluhluwe River being the most notable due to its series of pools. The vegetation is generally very dense, which can make wildlife viewing more challenging.

Best Time To Visit

The Wet season (October to April) can be less appealing for a visit due to high humidity, peak prices, crowds, and frequent downpours. Wildlife watching is often more enjoyable in the Dry season (May to September), when the skies are clear and animals gather around water sources. Additionally, you’ll find the park less crowded during this time, except during school holidays.

    Weather & Climate

    Winter at Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, lasting from May to September, is typically warm and dry, except for the mid-season period from June to August, when mornings can be quite cool. In contrast, summer (October to April) is hot and humid, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.

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    Guest Experiences

    • star rating  Tala Game Reserve  - We used Endless Summer Tours in February and went to the Tala Game Reserve. We had the best time. Rhys was a great guide. He made sure we had great... read more

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      avatar thumb Curiosity08273864046
      11 April 2024

      star rating  Absolutely Perfect Safari  - If you are looking for a company to arrange an African Safari look no further! From our first contact with Endless Summer to the drop off at the airport... read more

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      avatar thumb deconck2
      1 May 2024

      star rating  Best private tour and amazing sights  - Rhys was incredibly friendly and adapted to our needs - we felt very careful, everything was perfectly organized. The tours were great chosen and we have experienced a great time,... read more

      avatar thumb Fearless37952373981
      10 March 2024
    • star rating  Exceptional Drakensberg Tour (with Braai!) - I booked my 2-day Drakensberg hiking tour with Rhys, who connected us to our amazing guide, Mike. Here are three reasons why I recommend Rhys and Mike:

      1. Although... read more

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      avatar thumb lukiihc
      3 May 2024

      star rating  Best Choice for Safari  - No need to look at any other companies. Endless Summer is great!

      Rhys was very responsive during the planning process and focuses on making the Safari custom to exactly... read more

      avatar thumb Jason B
      26 February 2024

      star rating  Unmatched Kruger Experience  - This was an absolute 5 star experience! I would recommend a tour with Rhys and Wade to strangers and friends alike. The trip to South Africa was a bit outside... read more

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      avatar thumb Sarah C
      9 March 2024