Safari tours around Durban deliver big rewards for wildlife enthusiasts. The closest options – Natal Lion Park and Tala Game Reserve – pack impressive animal sightings into convenient half-day visits. I’m especially fond of Tala’s open-vehicle game drives, where you’ll spot rhinos, giraffes, and zebras against stunning African landscapes.
Multi-day safaris venture deeper into KwaZulu-Natal, combining game viewing with authentic Zulu village visits. The 3-day packages stand out for their mix of land and water safaris, plus comfortable lodging. Small group sizes and expert local guides make these experiences particularly worthwhile.
Let’s explore the very best safari tours Durban has to offer.
Key Points
- Half-day safari tours in KwaZulu-Natal provide wildlife encounters with lions, elephants, and more, starting from $169.03 per person with flexible cancellation policies.
- Extended safari tours range from 10-hour experiences to 5-day packages, offering diverse activities like game drives, cultural experiences, and boat cruises.
- Comprehensive safari adventures combine wildlife, nature, and cultural elements over 4 days, with options for boat cruises and beach visits.
- Cultural and wildlife tours blend 4×4 game drives, reptile park visits, and Zulu village exploration, with prices ranging from €154.88 to €164.79 per person.
- Boat safari and wetland tours offer close encounters with hippos and crocodiles, ranging from 2-hour cruises to 8-hour experiences, with wheelchair accessibility and flexible cancellation.
Half Day Safari Tour From Durban
What does the Half Day Safari Tour from Durban entail? This 6-hour tour offers a chance to explore the wildlife of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Travelers will visit the Natal Lion Park and Tala Private Game Reserve, with the opportunity to see lions, elephants, kudu, hippos, buffalo, giraffes, wildebeest, and eland.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a qualified guide, and all fees and taxes. It’s wheelchair accessible and suitable for most travelers.
Priced from $169.03 per person, the tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with highlights including close encounters with animals and knowledgeable commentary.
Though some have noted concerns about vehicle comfort, it remains a recommended budget-friendly option for those with limited time in Durban.
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1/2 Day Phezulu Safari Park From Durban
Departing from Durban, this comprehensive 6-hour tour takes visitors to the renowned Phezulu Safari Park, offering an immersive experience into the captivating wilderness of KwaZulu-Natal.
Priced at $154.88 to $164.79 per person, the tour includes a 4×4 game drive, a reptile park visit, an exploration of a traditional Zulu village, and a Zulu dance performance.
Guests can enjoy scenic views and wildlife sightings during the journey, with pickup and drop-off available from multiple locations.
The tour’s flexible cancellation policy and reserve-now-pay-later option make it an attractive choice for those seeking a memorable safari adventure near Durban.
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Hluhluwe Imfolozi Big 5 Reserve Day Safari From Durban
Situated just 2.5 hours from Durban, the Hluhluwe Imfolozi Big 5 Reserve offers visitors a chance to witness Africa’s iconic wildlife in their natural habitat.
The day safari from Durban includes entrance fees, a guided game drive, and round-trip transportation. Travelers can expect to see the Big Five – elephants, buffalo, rhinos, leopards, and lions.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 20 guests and is wheelchair accessible. While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, the guided experience provides insights into the local flora and fauna.
Though non-refundable, the tour is highly recommended, with 98% of travelers endorsing it. Priced from $188.81 per person, this safari is an ideal option for those with limited time seeking an authentic wildlife adventure.
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Phezulu Safari Park & Tala Game Reserve Tour From Durban
Setting out on a captivating 10-hour tour, travelers can explore the diverse wildlife and rich Zulu culture of Durban’s surroundings. Priced from $184.16 to $195.94 per person, the tour includes a guided game drive at the 3,000-hectare Tala Game Reserve, where visitors may spot rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and more.
The experience continues at Phezulu Safari Park, where travelers enjoy traditional Zulu culture through dance performances and visits to Zulu huts.
Convenient hotel, port, and airport pickups and drop-offs, as well as flexible booking options, make this tour an accessible and hassle-free way to discover Durban’s natural and cultural offerings.
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Hluhluwe Game Reserve Safari From Durban
Complementing the Phezulu Safari Park and Tala Game Reserve tour, travelers can also explore the renowned Hluhluwe Game Reserve from Durban.
This 22-reviewed safari offers a closed-vehicle game drive, lunch, and hotel pickup/drop-off for $236.87 per person. The tour starts at 6:30 am and can accommodate up to 12 guests, though not recommended for those with mobility issues.
COVID-19 protocols are followed, and personal insurance is advised. While the guides are knowledgeable, the variety of wildlife sightings is mixed, with some visitors noting limited Big 5 encounters.
The long travel time of 2.5-3.5 hours each way may warrant an overnight stay for a more immersive experience.
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5 Day Zululand Pvt Safari From Durban Plus Drakensberg M
Travelers seeking an immersive Zululand safari experience can embark on a 5-day private tour from Durban that also explores the majestic Drakensberg Mountains.
Priced from $1,755.73 per person, the tour includes game drives in Isimangaliso Wetlands Park, a boat cruise to view hippos and crocodiles, and hiking in the Drakensberg.
Accommodations with breakfast are provided, while lunches are at the traveler’s own expense. Transportation is included, and the tour is accessible for wheelchair users.
With a flexible cancellation policy and no upfront payment required, this private safari offers a comprehensive South African adventure.
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3 Days Durban Safari Tour Package
The 3-day Durban Safari Tour Package offers an immersive exploration of the region’s wildlife and natural wonders.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, this 5-star rated tour includes all fees and taxes, professional guides, air-conditioned transportation, and 2 nights’ accommodation with meals.
Pickup is at 7 AM, with a maximum of 15 travelers per tour. While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
Confirmation is provided within 48 hours, and luggage is limited to 1 suitcase and 1 carry-on. The duration of transfers may vary due to traffic.
At $669.90 per person, this non-refundable package provides an unforgettable safari experience in Durban, South Africa.
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From Durban: Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Overnight Safari W/ Transfer
Departing from Durban, this overnight safari takes travelers on a captivating journey to explore the wonders of the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve.
Priced from $515.99 per person, the 2-day tour includes a hippo and crocodile boat cruise, private game drives, and a full-day safari in the second-oldest game reserve on the planet.
With all meals, accommodation, and transfers included, this small-group experience offers the convenience of a hassle-free adventure.
Adventurers can look forward to tracking South Africa’s iconic wildlife, from big cats to diverse species.
Cancelable up to 24 hours in advance, this overnight safari provides a flexible and immersive way to discover the region’s natural wonders.
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4-Day Hluhluwe Imfolozi and St Lucia Safari From Durban
Journeying beyond the overnight safari in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi, this 4-day excursion immerses participants in the captivating landscapes of both Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve and the Isimangaliso Wetland Reserve.
A private safari offers guided exploration, while a boat cruise through the wetlands and a day at Cape Vidal Beach provide diverse experiences.
Accommodations, meals, and round-trip transportation from Durban are included, along with professional guides and entrance fees.
This highly-rated tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, but it’s an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive South African safari adventure.
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Durban: Hluhluwe Imfolozi Safari & Isimangaliso Tour
This immersive 12-hour tour allows visitors to discover the captivating landscapes and diverse wildlife of both the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the renowned Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve.
Priced from $247.67 per person, the tour includes a boat cruise in the UNESCO-recognized iSimangaliso Wetlands and a safari in the historic Hluhluwe Imfolozi reserve, known for its white rhino conservation efforts.
Guests can expect to spot Africa’s iconic Big 5 animals, as well as a wealth of other species, including hippos, crocodiles, whales, and marine turtles.
Comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and the convenience of central Durban pickup make this an excellent choice for wildlife enthusiasts.
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Hluhluwe Imfolozi Safari & St Lucia Boat Safari Day Tour From Durban
The Hluhluwe Imfolozi Safari & St Lucia Boat Safari Day Tour from Durban offers an immersive experience exploring two of South Africa’s premier wildlife destinations.
Priced from $254.39 per person, the tour includes a closed vehicle game drive in the Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park and a 2-hour boat safari on the iSimangaliso Estuary.
Travelers can expect to spot a variety of wildlife, such as hippos and elephants, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.
The tour, which accommodates up to 99 participants, departs from Durban at 6 AM and includes pickup, lunch, and drop-off.
While most reviews praise the tour’s quality, some travelers have reported issues with the operator’s service and schedule changes.
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From Durban: Half-Day Safari Tour
Tourists can embark on a half-day safari adventure from Durban, exploring the region’s premier wildlife sanctuaries. Priced at €156.57 per person, the 6-hour tour provides access to the Natal Lion Park and Tala Game Reserve, where visitors can encounter African and Asian elephants, rhinos, and lions.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within a 5-kilometer radius, as well as flexible start times between 8 am and 2 pm. Wheelchair-accessible transportation is available, and multilingual guides enhance the safari experience.
With an overall rating of 4.4/5 from 76 reviews, this half-day safari is a popular choice for those seeking an immersive wildlife encounter near Durban.
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1/2 Tala Game Reserve & Phezulu Safari Park Tour
Departing from Durban at 7.30 am, this 6-hour Tala Game Reserve & Phezulu Safari Park Tour provides an immersive wildlife and cultural experience.
Guests enjoy a 4×4 game drive in Tala Game Reserve, where they may spot giraffes, rhinos, zebras, impalas, and kudus.
The tour also includes an African village experience and a traditional dance performance at Phezulu Safari Park.
Lunch is at your’ own expense.
Transportation is provided, with pickup and drop-off at cruise ships, airports, or hotels.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and a live guide is included.
Prices start from €162.38 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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1/2 Day Phezulu Safari Park & Natal Lion Park From Durban
This 6-hour safari adventure departs from various locations in the Durban area, including Pinetown, Chatsworth, and Umhlanga.
Priced from Kč 4,468 per person, the tour visits two wildlife reserves – Natal Lion Park and Phezulu Safari Park. Guests can expect to see lions, elephants, giraffes, and more during the included game drives.
The cultural experience at Phezulu Safari Park features Zulu dancing.
While customer feedback notes issues with the vehicle quality and limited guide information, the cultural aspect is appreciated.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a flexible booking policy, this safari tour offers a mix of wildlife and culture near Durban.
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Half Day Natal Lion P & Tala Game Reserve From Durban Safari
Exploring the diverse wildlife of Tala Game Reserve and Natal Lion Park on a full-day safari from Durban, guests embark on a 6-hour adventure priced from $164.57 per person.
The tour includes game drives in both reserves, offering the chance to spot lions, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests.
Guides, available in English, German, and French, provide insights into the local ecosystem and conservation efforts.
While reviews are mixed, with positive feedback on Tala Game Reserve and concerns about Natal Lion Park and guide communication, the tour allows visitors to enjoy the region’s natural wonders.
Pickup and drop-off services are included within a 50 km radius of Durban.
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From Durban: Safari & PheZulu Village Day Tour
On this full-day safari and cultural tour from Durban, travelers embark on an immersive exploration of South Africa’s diverse wildlife and Zulu heritage.
Priced from $192.63 per person, the 8-hour tour offers a comprehensive itinerary in English, Greek, French, and Portuguese.
Highlights include observing lions, elephants, and rhinos at Natal Lion Park, exploring Tala Private Game Reserve, and experiencing Zulu culture at Phezulu Cultural Village.
The tour includes entrance fees, a knowledgeable guide, and hotel transfers.
With a 4.8/5 rating based on 12 reviews, the tour is praised for its exciting and educational experience.
Flexible pickup times and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance make this tour an attractive option for visitors to Durban.
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1/2 Day Tala Game Reserve & Phezulu Safari Park From Durban
Visitors seeking an immersive safari experience can embark on a captivating half-day tour from Durban.
The tour includes a 4×4 game drive in the Tala Game Reserve, where they’ll witness diverse wildlife like giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and more.
Afterwards, they’ll explore the Phezulu Safari Park, seeing African culture through a village tour, traditional dance, and other activities.
Priced at around $154 per person, this tour offers free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later.
With pickup from any location and wheelchair accessibility, it’s a convenient and memorable way to explore Durban’s natural and cultural wonders.
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Phezulu Safari Park 1/2 Day Tour From Durban
The Phezulu Safari Park 1/2 Day Tour from Durban offers an immersive cultural and wildlife experience.
Priced from $170.23 per person, the 6-hour tour includes a 1-hour 4×4 game drive to spot giraffes, zebras, and other animals.
Visitors also explore the Reptile Park and Phezulu cultural village, learning about Zulu culture and watching a traditional dance performance.
The tour provides the opportunity to enjoy the scenic Valley of 1000 Hills.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour is a convenient and flexible way to experience Durban’s natural and cultural wonders.
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Half Day Safari From Durban
Offering an immersive wildlife and cultural experience, the Half Day Safari from Durban provides an engaging introduction to South Africa’s Zulu Kingdom. Priced at $186.58 per person, this 6-hour tour features a game drive in an open safari vehicle, offering chances to spot zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, and other iconic African animals.
Guests also explore a traditional Zulu village, witnessing cultural demonstrations and dances. Plus, the tour includes a guided visit to a Reptile Park, where visitors can learn about the ecological roles and conservation efforts for snakes, crocodiles, and other reptiles.
With free cancellation and pickup/drop-off options, this safari is an accessible and flexible way to take in Zulu heritage and South African wildlife.
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1/2 Day Isimangaliso Boat Safari From Durban
Durban’s Day iSimangaliso Boat Safari immerses travelers in the vibrant ecosystem of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, one of Africa’s largest estuaries.
The 8-hour tour, priced from $186.58 per person, offers a chance to see hippos up close as they yawn and grunt. The boat cruise traverses approximately 8km, with a local guide providing insights into the region’s history and wildlife.
Pickup is included, and the tour is wheelchair accessible. Offered in English and French, the safari provides ample opportunities for photography and learning about the wetland’s rich biodiversity.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book now and pay later for this immersive wildlife experience.
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Half Day Hippo Boat Safari Isimangaliso Wetlands From Durban
This half-day Hippo Boat Safari immerses visitors in the vibrant ecosystem of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, one of Africa’s largest estuaries.
The 2-hour boat cruise allows for close encounters with hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat. Lasting 7 hours in total, the tour includes a 2.5-hour drive from Durban and opportunities for birdwatching and scenic photography.
Priced from Kč 4,336 to Kč 4,076 per person, the safari can be booked with free cancellation and no upfront payment.
With a local guide providing insights, the tour is wheelchair accessible and includes pickup options within a 50km radius of Durban.
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Half Day Durban City Tour and Phezulu Safari Park
The Half Day Durban City Tour and Phezulu Safari Park provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of Durban’s cultural and natural highlights.
Priced at €172.54 per person, the 6-hour tour includes a visit to the Victoria Market, Durban Botanic Gardens, and the Phezulu Safari Park.
Guests can enjoy Zulu cultural dances and traditional living, as well as experience a game drive.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off service, and is wheelchair accessible.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on 2 reviews, this tour offers an exceptional value for those seeking to discover Durban’s diverse attractions in a single day.
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Half Day Safari Tala Game Reserve & Lion Park From Durban
Although situated just a short drive from Durban, the Half Day Safari at Tala Game Reserve & Natal Lion Park offers visitors a chance to enjoy the captivating wildlife of KwaZulu-Natal.
Priced at Kč 4,336 per person, the 6-hour tour includes a game drive in a 4×4 vehicle, where guests can spot the Big 5 and other species like rhino, kudu, hippo, giraffe, and the rare sable antelope.
The Natal Lion Park features lions and elephants, while Tala is home to over 380 bird species.
Pickup from Durban hotels, cruise ships, and the airport is included, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
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1/2 Day Phezulu Safari Tour From Durban
Situated just a short drive from Durban, the Day Phezulu Safari Tour offers an immersive wildlife and cultural experience.
Priced from $153.67 per person, this 6-hour tour includes a 4×4 game drive in Phezulu Safari Park, where visitors can spot giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species.
The tour also features a Zulu cultural experience, showcasing traditional beehive-shaped huts, artifacts, and a 50-minute dance performance.
Plus, guests will have the opportunity to explore the Reptile Park, learning about crocodiles and snakes from knowledgeable guides.
Complimentary hotel, airport, and port pickups and drop-offs are provided, and the tour can be booked with no upfront payment.
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1/2 Day Safari From Durban
Set out on a captivating day safari from Durban, where visitors can enjoy the untamed beauty of the region’s wildlife and cultural heritage.
This 6-hour tour offers a fantastic value, with savings of up to 6%. Guests can enjoy a game drive in search of zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, and antelopes, followed by a tour of the Reptile Park and the African Village.
Experience traditional Zulu dances and music, and explore the diverse wildlife, culture, and natural wonders.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and convenient pickup options, this safari tour is an accessible and unforgettable experience for all travelers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?
Yes, you can typically bring your own food and drinks on a safari tour. Most safari operators allow and even encourage guests to bring their own provisions for the day’s excursion.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Safari Tours?
The cancellation policy for safari tours typically allows for full refunds if cancelled within a certain timeframe, often 48-72 hours before the scheduled departure. Fees may apply for last-minute cancellations. It’s best to review the specific policy with the tour operator.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Safari?
Most safari tours have age restrictions, often requiring children to be a minimum of 6 or 8 years old. Some tours may also have upper age limits or other requirements based on physical abilities. It’s best to check with the tour operator directly.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Go on a Safari in Durban?
The best time to go on a safari in Durban is during the dry season, typically from May to September. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions and increased wildlife viewing opportunities as animals congregate around water sources.
Can I Request a Customized Safari Itinerary or Tour?
Yes, many safari tour operators in the area offer the option to customize your itinerary. They’ll work with you to create a personalized safari experience that fits your interests, budget, and schedule.
The Sum Up
Durban offers a variety of safari tours that allow visitors to explore the region’s diverse wildlife and natural landscapes. From half-day tours to full-day safaris, there are options to suit different budgets and interests. Travelers can choose from Phezulu Safari Park, Hluhluwe Imfolozi Reserve, Tala Game Reserve, and more, providing a chance to spot the Big 5 and other wildlife in their natural habitats. These tours are a convenient and efficient way to experience the beauty of South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province.