South Africa’s coastal city of Durban serves up excellent safari options, all within easy reach of downtown. The practical half-day tours to Natal Lion Park and Tala Private Game Reserve work perfectly for time-tight travelers, while stunning 5-day excursions into Zululand and the Drakensberg mountains deliver full-immersion wilderness experiences.
I’m especially fond of the open-vehicle safaris at Tala, where you get amazingly close to rhinos and giraffes without the crowds of larger parks. The iSimangaliso Estuary cruise tours are also a smart choice, combining wildlife viewing with authentic Zulu village visits – all expertly guided and well-organized.
Let’s look at Durban’s best safari experiences, ranked by value and wildlife-viewing opportunities.
Key Points
- Half-day safari tours to Natal Lion Park and Tala Private Game Reserve offer diverse wildlife viewing and knowledgeable commentary, with high guest satisfaction.
- Phezulu Safari Park combines a 4×4 game drive to see giraffes, impalas, and zebras, with a visit to a reptile park and traditional Zulu village.
- Hluhluwe Imfolozi Safari provides opportunities to spot the Big 5 on a guided game drive, with round-trip transportation and wheelchair accessibility.
- Extended 5-day private safaris from Durban explore Zululand and Drakensberg, featuring 4×4 drives, boat cruises, hiking, and cultural experiences.
- General day safari tours from Durban offer a range of options to view wildlife and experience local cultural activities, with convenient pickup and free cancellation.
Half Day Safari Tour From Durban
Exploring the natural wonders of South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province, this half-day safari tour from Durban takes visitors on an immersive journey through two premier wildlife destinations.
Over the course of approximately 6 hours, the tour offers the chance to spot iconic African animals like lions, elephants, kudu, hippos, and more at the Natal Lion Park and Tala Private Game Reserve.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, a qualified guide, and all fees included, this budget-friendly safari is accessible to most travelers.
While some guests have noted concerns about vehicle comfort, the overall experience receives high praise for its knowledgeable commentary and close wildlife encounters.
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1/2 Day Phezulu Safari Park From Durban
Travelers seeking an immersive safari experience can embark on the Day Phezulu Safari Park tour from Durban. This 6-hour adventure offers a chance to view diverse wildlife, including giraffes, impalas, zebras, and more, on a 4×4 game drive.
The tour also includes a visit to a reptile park, an exploration of a traditional Zulu village, and a captivating Zulu dance performance. With pickup and drop-off available from various locations in the Durban area, this tour provides a convenient and comprehensive way to experience the region’s natural and cultural wonders.
Priced from $154.88 to $164.79 per person, the tour offers a savings of up to 6% and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Hluhluwe Imfolozi Big 5 Reserve Day Safari From Durban
This day safari from Durban to the Hluhluwe Imfolozi Big 5 Reserve offers travelers a chance to witness Africa’s most iconic wildlife in their natural habitat.
The tour includes a guided game drive through the reserve, providing insights into the local flora and fauna. With the possibility of spotting elephants, buffalo, rhinos, leopards, and lions, this safari is ideal for those with limited time seeking a genuine wildlife experience.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and bottled water. While wildlife visibility can be unpredictable, the tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for children.
With a 4.8-star rating and 98% recommendation, this safari promises an enjoyable and memorable adventure.
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Phezulu Safari Park & Tala Game Reserve Tour From Durban
From Durban, visitors can embark on a captivating 10-hour tour that showcases the natural wonders and cultural richness of the region.
The tour includes a guided game drive at Tala Game Reserve, where guests can spot rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife in a 3,000-hectare wilderness.
The experience continues at Phezulu Safari Park, where visitors enjoy traditional Zulu culture through dance performances and a visit to authentic Zulu huts.
Travelers can also purchase traditional Zulu wares.
With convenient pickup and drop-off services, flexible booking options, and the opportunity to witness both wildlife and cultural experiences, this tour offers a comprehensive and engaging safari adventure.
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Hluhluwe Game Reserve Safari From Durban
Departing from Durban, visitors can embark on an exciting safari adventure to the renowned Hluhluwe Game Reserve. The tour includes a closed-vehicle game drive led by a knowledgeable guide, allowing guests to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, and more.
Lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off, and gratuities are provided. While the tour receives positive reviews for its wildlife sightings, some travelers note limited views of the Big 5.
Guests should be aware of the long travel time and consider an overnight stay for a more comprehensive experience. With a minimum group size of 2, this safari is suitable for moderately fit participants, though open-vehicle options aren’t recommended for young children.
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5 Day Zululand Pvt Safari From Durban Plus Drakensberg M
Setting out on a comprehensive 5-day private safari adventure from Durban, travelers can explore the diverse wildlife and landscapes of Zululand and the captivating Drakensberg Mountains.
Priced from $1,755.73 per person, this tour includes exhilarating 4×4 game drives, a boat cruise to spot hippos and crocodiles, and a hike through the Drakensberg range.
Visitors will also enjoy a tour of Durban’s cultural highlights and the Mandela Capture Site.
Accommodations are provided for four nights, with breakfast included.
Pickup and wheelchair accessibility make this safari convenient and inclusive.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this immersive Zululand and Drakensberg experience offers a flexible and unforgettable journey.
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3 Days Durban Safari Tour Package
The 3 Days Durban Safari Tour Package offers travelers an immersive exploration of Durban’s captivating wildlife and cultural attractions.
Recommended by 100% of previous guests, this 5.0-rated tour provides a comprehensive experience, including a professional guide, air-conditioned transportation, and meals.
Accommodations for 2 nights, bottled water, and gratuities are also included.
Pickup varies by client and location, with a maximum of 15 travelers per tour.
While not suitable for those with back issues or serious medical conditions, most travelers can participate.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.
With a non-refundable booking, this tour promises an unforgettable Durban safari adventure.
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From Durban: Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Overnight Safari W/ Transfer
Nestled within the heart of South Africa’s renowned Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, this two-day safari excursion from Durban promises an immersive encounter with the region’s diverse wildlife.
Priced from $515.99 per person, the tour includes a hippopotamus and crocodile boat cruise, a private game drive, and a full-day safari in the Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve.
Accommodation, meals, and transfers are provided, while free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance ensures flexibility.
With a small group size limited to 15 participants and an English-speaking guide, this overnight safari offers an intimate and personalized adventure for nature enthusiasts.
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4-Day Hluhluwe Imfolozi and St Lucia Safari From Durban
Enjoy the captivating landscapes and diverse wildlife of South Africa’s renowned Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve and the Isimangaliso Wetland Park on this comprehensive 4-day safari from Durban.
Explore the game reserve on a guided safari and enjoy a boat cruise through the wetland park. Relax on the pristine Cape Vidal Beach.
The tour includes 3 nights’ accommodation, meals, entrance fees, and round-trip transportation from Durban. This 5-star rated safari is recommended by 100% of travelers and requires a minimum of 2 people per booking.
Certain medical conditions may make the tour unsuitable. Pricing starts from €1,275.06 per person with free cancellation up to 6 days in advance.
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Durban: Hluhluwe Imfolozi Safari & Isimangaliso Tour
Departing from central Durban, this comprehensive 12-hour tour immerses visitors in the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of South Africa’s renowned Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve and the UNESCO-protected iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Offering exceptional value at $247.67 per person, the tour includes a boat excursion through the iSimangaliso wetlands and a safari in search of Africa’s Big 5.
Guests can enjoy meals and relaxation at Hilltop Camp before continuing their journey.
With wheelchair accessibility, multilingual guides, and a 4.9/5 customer rating, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for all ages, showcasing the region’s natural wonders and abundant wildlife.
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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 a comprehensive exploration of South Africa’s natural wonders, seamlessly blending a closed-vehicle game drive through the renowned Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve with a guided boat excursion on the iSimangaliso Estuary.
Priced from $254.39 per person, the tour provides the opportunity to spot a diverse array of wildlife, including hippos and elephants, under the guidance of a knowledgeable tour guide.
With a maximum of 99 participants and pickup locations within a 5km radius of the Tropicana Hotel, this day tour caters to travelers seeking an immersive experience.
While most reviews praise the tour, some note concerns about vehicle conditions and schedule changes.
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From Durban: Half-Day Safari Tour
For travelers seeking a more compact safari experience from Durban, the Half-Day Safari Tour offers an opportunity to encounter captivating wildlife within a condensed timeframe.
Priced at €156.57 per person, this 6-hour excursion includes hotel pickup, entrance to various attractions, and the chance to see lions, elephants, rhinos, and more at Natal Lion Park and Tala Game Reserve.
The tour is flexible, with pickup times ranging from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, and is wheelchair accessible.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides who enhance the safari experience, with the tour boasting an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 76 reviews.
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1/2 Tala Game Reserve & Phezulu Safari Park Tour
With a duration of 6 hours, the Tala Game Reserve & Phezulu Safari Park Tour offers travelers an immersive wildlife experience just outside Durban.
The tour includes a thrilling 4×4 game drive through Tala Game Reserve, where guests may spot giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and other iconic African animals.
Afterward, visitors can explore a traditional African village and witness a captivating dance performance at Phezulu Safari Park.
Priced from €162.38 per person, the tour provides convenient pickup service and is wheelchair accessible.
Guests can reserve their spot without any upfront payment and enjoy a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
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1/2 Day Phezulu Safari Park & Natal Lion Park From Durban
Journeying beyond the captivating experience at Tala Game Reserve, this 6-hour tour beckons travelers to explore the wonders of Natal Lion Park and Phezulu Safari Park.
Priced at Kč 4,468 per person, the tour offers a diverse wildlife experience, including sightings of lions, elephants, giraffes, and more. Visitors can enjoy 1.5 hours of game drives at Natal Lion Park and 3.5 hours at Phezulu Safari Park.
The cultural highlight of the tour is the opportunity to witness traditional Zulu dances at Phezulu. With flexible booking options and free cancellation, this tour caters to travelers seeking an enriching blend of wildlife and culture in Durban.
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Half Day Natal Lion P & Tala Game Reserve From Durban Safari
Set out on a captivating half-day adventure that whisks you away from Durban to explore the wonders of Tala Game Reserve and Natal Lion Park. Priced from $164.57 per person, this 6-hour tour offers free cancellation and flexible payment options.
Witness a diverse array of wildlife, including lions, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests, during guided game drives. Learn about the local ecosystem and conservation efforts from knowledgeable guides available in multiple languages.
While reviews are mixed, with positive feedback on Tala and concerns about Natal Lion Park, this tour provides a unique opportunity to learn about South Africa’s natural beauty.
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From Durban: Safari & PheZulu Village Day Tour
For those seeking a comprehensive safari experience from Durban, the From Durban: Safari & PheZulu Village Day Tour offers an exciting 8-hour adventure. Priced from $192.63 per person, this tour provides access to Natal Lion Park, Tala Private Game Reserve, and the Phezulu Cultural Village.
Highlights include observing lions, elephants, and rhinos, as well as experiencing Zulu culture and dancing. The tour includes entrance fees, a knowledgeable guide, transportation, and lunch.
Flexibility is key, with pickup available from various locations and times. Positive reviews praise the guides’ expertise and the memorable nature of the experience.
This tour is wheelchair-accessible and available in multiple languages, making it an inclusive option for a diverse range of travelers.
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1/2 Day Tala Game Reserve & Phezulu Safari Park From Durban
Travelers seeking a captivating safari experience can embark on the Day Tala Game Reserve & Phezulu Safari Park From Durban tour.
This 6-hour adventure offers a chance to witness diverse wildlife, including giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and more, during a 4×4 game drive in Tala Game Reserve.
The tour also includes a visit to Phezulu Safari Park, where visitors can explore an African village and experience traditional dance and cultural activities.
Conveniently, pickup is provided from any location in Durban, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this safari tour is a flexible and affordable option for nature enthusiasts.
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Phezulu Safari Park 1/2 Day Tour From Durban
The Phezulu Safari Park 1/2 Day Tour from Durban offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s diverse wildlife and rich cultural heritage.
The tour includes a 1-hour 4×4 game drive, where visitors can spot giraffes, zebras, impalas, and other wild animals.
Afterward, they’ll visit the Reptile Park for a guided tour to learn about crocodiles and snakes.
The experience also includes a tour of the Phezulu cultural village, providing insights into Zulu culture, artifacts, and a captivating dance performance.
With convenient pickup, wheelchair accessibility, and a live English-speaking guide, this tour is an excellent value, costing $170.23 per person and offering a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
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Half Day Safari From Durban
One popular option for visitors to Durban is the Half Day Safari from Durban. Priced at $186.58 per person, this 6-hour tour offers the chance to explore South Africa’s Zulu Kingdom.
Guests can look forward to wildlife viewing on a game drive, spotting animals like zebras, giraffes, and antelopes. The tour also includes a visit to a traditional Zulu village, where travelers can engage with local artisans and witness cultural demonstrations.
Plus, the tour incorporates a guided exploration of the Reptile Park, allowing visitors to learn about snakes, crocodiles, and other reptiles.
With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, this safari tour provides a convenient and immersive experience for those seeking to discover Durban’s natural and cultural wonders.
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1/2 Day Isimangaliso Boat Safari From Durban
Embarking on an unforgettable journey, the Day iSimangaliso Boat Safari from Durban offers visitors a chance to enjoy the diverse wildlife and natural wonders of the renowned iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Priced from $186.58 per person, this 8-hour excursion allows guests to discover hippos, crocodiles, and other iconic African fauna up close.
The boat cruise traverses 8km of the St. Lucia Estuary, with a local guide providing insights into the ecosystem.
Pickup is included, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
Available in English and French, the safari promises a rich wildlife experience within one of Africa’s largest estuaries.
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Half Day Hippo Boat Safari Isimangaliso Wetlands From Durban
An unforgettable half-day safari takes visitors on a captivating boat cruise through the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage site.
The 2-hour St. Lucia Estuary Hippo and Croc Boat Cruise immerses guests in the diverse wildlife of this stunning ecosystem, offering close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of bird species.
Priced from Kč 4,336 to Kč 4,076 per person, the tour includes pickup within a 50km radius of Durban and is wheelchair accessible.
With opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and learning about the estuary’s history and ecology, this memorable experience in one of Africa’s largest estuaries isn’t to be missed.
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Half Day Durban City Tour and Phezulu Safari Park
This half-day adventure blends the vibrant culture and scenic landscapes of Durban, South Africa.
The tour offers a comprehensive experience, starting with a visit to the bustling Victoria Market where you can shop for African-inspired souvenirs.
Next, explore the lush Durban Botanic Gardens, the oldest of its kind in Africa.
The highlight is the Phezulu Safari Park, where you’ll witness Zulu cultural dances and traditional living. Enjoy a game drive and explore the Zulu huts.
At €172.54 per person, the tour includes pickup, drop-off, and access to all activities.
With positive reviews and wheelchair accessibility, this is an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive cultural and natural experience in Durban.
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Half Day Safari Tala Game Reserve & Lion Park From Durban
For nature enthusiasts visiting Durban, a half-day safari adventure at the Tala Game Reserve and Natal Lion Park is a must-do.
Priced at Kč 4,336 per person, this 6-hour tour offers the opportunity to spot the Big 5 and diverse wildlife like rhinos, giraffes, and rare sable antelopes.
The 4×4 game drive through Tala Game Reserve provides scenic views and informative commentary from live guides.
The tour also includes a visit to the Natal Lion Park, home to lions and elephants.
Flexible pickup options and wheelchair accessibility make this an accessible outing.
With free cancellation and pay-later options, it’s an easy way to experience Durban’s wildlife.
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1/2 Day Phezulu Safari Tour From Durban
The Phezulu Safari Tour from Durban offers visitors a comprehensive 6-hour wildlife and cultural experience.
This half-day tour includes a 4×4 game drive through Phezulu Safari Park, where guests can spot giraffes, zebras, impalas, and more.
The tour also includes a visit to a traditional Zulu village, with a 50-minute dance performance showcasing the tribe’s rich cultural heritage.
Plus, the tour features a guided tour of the Reptile Park, where participants can learn about the region’s diverse array of crocodiles and snakes.
With convenient hotel, airport, and port pickups, this tour provides a hassle-free way to take in Durban’s natural and cultural wonders.
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1/2 Day Safari From Durban
Setting out on a day safari from Durban provides visitors an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the region’s diverse wildlife and captivating cultural heritage.
This 6-hour tour offers a 1/2 day safari experience, saving guests up to 6% on the price which starts from $168.42 per person.
Travelers can expect an exhilarating game drive in search of zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, and antelopes, as well as a tour of the Reptile Park and African Village, where they’ll witness traditional Zulu dances and interact with local artisans.
With free cancellation, pickup, and wheelchair accessibility, this comprehensive safari is an ideal choice for visitors seeking an immersive exploration of Durban’s natural and cultural wonders.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?
Many safari tour operators offer discounts for group bookings. Customers should inquire about group rates when making reservations. This can provide significant savings, especially for larger parties planning a safari adventure together.
Can We Customize the Safari Tour Based on Our Preferences?
Many safari tour providers in the region allow customization based on your preferences. You can often adjust the itinerary, activities, and length of the tour to suit your needs. Be sure to discuss your requirements when booking to ensure a personalized experience.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Safari Tours?
The maximum group size for safari tours often varies, but many operators offer small, personalized tours with a maximum of 8-10 participants. This allows for more intimate experiences and flexibility to accommodate individual preferences.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Safari Activities?
Most safari tours have age restrictions, typically requiring children to be at least 6 years old. However, some operators may have more flexible policies or specialized family-friendly activities. It’s best to check with each tour provider for their specific age requirements.
Can We Extend the Safari Tour Duration if Needed?
Most safari tour providers allow flexibility to extend the tour duration if needed. Clients can usually discuss this with the tour operator and make arrangements to accommodate their preferences, though additional fees may apply for extended tours.
The Sum Up
With a variety of half-day and full-day safari tours from Durban, visitors can explore the local wildlife and natural landscapes. Whether it’s the Phezulu Safari Park, Hluhluwe Imfolozi Reserve, or Tala Game Reserve, there’s an option to suit different interests and budgets. These tours provide a convenient way to experience South Africa’s renowned safari destinations from the Durban area.