3-Day Big 5 Safari from Durban
Discover the wildlife of northern KwaZulu-Natal on a three day, two night safari combining Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park with a stay at Bonamanzi Game Reserve. This varied itinerary brings together Big 5 game drives, a St Lucia estuary cruise, a guided wild cat experience and the peaceful atmosphere of a private reserve.
After leaving Durban, we travel north to St Lucia for a boat cruise on the estuary, where hippos, crocodiles and birdlife may be seen. In the afternoon we will visit Emdoneni Lodge for a cheetah and wild cat interaction. We will then continue to Bonamanzi Game Reserve, where you will settle into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxed dinner.
The second day focuses on the iMfolozi section of Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park. Set off early for a full day of wildlife viewing, with opportunities to search for lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. Return to Bonamanzi for dinner and an evening in the reserve.
On the third day, explore the Hluhluwe section of the park on a morning game drive before returning to Durban.
Your itinerary
Day 1: St Lucia, Bonamanzi and Emdoneni
Drive up the north coast for a boat cruise on the St Lucia estuary. Check in at Bonamanzi, a 4,000 hectare reserve with elephants, rhinos, buffalo and leopards, for a game drive. Visit the cheetahs at Emdoneni, then sundowners and dinner at Bonamanzi.
Day 2: iMfolozi
An early start with a packed breakfast. A full day of game drives in the iMfolozi section, entering at Nyalazi Gate. Sundowners at Lalapanzi Dam and dinner at the lodge.
Day 3: Hluhluwe and home
Packed breakfast, then a half day of game drives in the Hluhluwe section through Memorial Gate. Drive back to Durban in the late afternoon.
An open-vehicle drive of 3 hours can be added on request for R500 per person. This safari is also available as 2 days and 1 night, or longer.
What is included
Included
- Qualified safari guide
- All transport and game drives
- Accommodation at Bonamanzi Game Reserve
- St Lucia estuary boat cruise
- Cheetah interaction at Emdoneni
- Breakfasts and dinners
- Mineral water and a snack pack
- All gate entrance fees
Not included
- Personal expenses
- Lunches and additional drinks
- Personal and medical insurance
Good to know
- Pick-up and drop-off at Durban hotels and guesthouses. Daily departures.
- Minimum 2 guests. Prices are per person sharing. Ask about group discounts.
- English guiding, with Italian and German on request.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, binoculars and a camera. Early mornings can be cool, so pack a light jacket.
Questions
Why stay at Bonamanzi?
Bonamanzi is a quiet private reserve close to the park, with sand forest, wetlands and its own game drives. It makes a relaxed base between days in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi.