Exploring the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, South Africa’s oldest protected wildlife area, promises an unforgettable safari experience. This 2-day overnight adventure from Durban offers travelers the chance to enjoy the region’s diverse ecosystems and encounter the iconic Big 5. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and all meals included, the tour provides a seamless and personalized adventure. But what truly sets this safari apart is the opportunity to witness the majesty of Africa’s wildlife up close, from the powerful hippos and crocodiles to the elusive predators roaming the reserve.
Good To Know
- 2-day safari excursion from Durban to the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, including a boat cruise, private reserve game drive, and early morning Big 5 game drive.
- All-inclusive package with accommodation, meals, transfers, and an English-speaking live tour guide for a personalized and intimate safari experience.
- Opportunity to see diverse wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, cheetahs, and the iconic Big 5, in their natural habitats.
- Visit to the second oldest game reserve in the world, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi, known for its rich history and conservation efforts.
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a group size limited to 15 participants for enhanced wildlife sightings and personalized attention.
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Overview and Pricing
The Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Overnight Safari is a 2-day excursion from Durban, priced from $530.85 per person.
The safari includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option.
This immersive experience lasts for 2 days and focuses on Africa’s diverse wildlife. Highlights include a Hippopotamus & Crocodile Boat Cruise, a Safari Game Drive at a Private Game Reserve, and a Half Day Safari Game Drive at the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve.
The small group tour is limited to 15 participants and includes all meals, accommodation, and transfers, with an English-speaking live tour guide.
Safari Experience
Visitors on the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Overnight Safari can expect a thrilling wildlife-focused experience.
The safari features four main highlights:
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A Hippopotamus & Crocodile Boat Cruise through the serene St Lucia estuary.
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A 3-hour late afternoon game drive at a private game reserve, where the focus is on spotting big cats.
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An early morning 6-hour game drive in the renowned Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, Africa’s oldest protected wildlife area, to track the Big 5 and other iconic species like giraffes, cheetahs, and wild dogs.
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A diverse array of nature and wildlife encounters throughout the safari.
Itinerary Details
The journey begins with a visit to St Lucia, the only town in Southern Africa surrounded by water. Guests will cruise through the estuary to see hippopotamuses and crocodiles.
Next, they’ll visit an exclusive Private Game Reserve for a 3-hour late afternoon game drive, focusing on spotting big cats.
The following day starts with an early 6-hour game drive in the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, the second-oldest game reserve on the planet.
During this drive, guests will have the chance to track Africa’s Big 5 and other species like giraffes, cheetahs, and wild dogs.
Group Size and Guide
Small groups are limited to 15 participants on this safari. This intimate group size allows for a more personalized and immersive experience.
The tour is led by a live guide who provides commentary in English, sharing their expertise and insights throughout the journey.
The benefits of the small group size include:
- Personalized attention from the guide.
- Flexibility to adapt the itinerary based on the group’s interests.
- Easier coordination and logistics during the safari activities.
- Enhanced opportunities for wildlife sightings and photography.
With a focus on delivering a high-quality safari experience, the small group format and knowledgeable guide ensure an unforgettable adventure in the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi region.
Inclusions
This Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Overnight Safari package includes all the essential elements for a memorable experience. From accommodation and meals to transportation, the inclusions cover every aspect of the adventure. A detailed overview of the key inclusions is provided in the table below:
| Inclusion | Description |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Comfortable lodging for the duration of the safari |
| Meals | All meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner |
| Transfers | Round-trip transfers from Durban to the safari destinations |
| Game Drives | Guided game drives in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi and a private reserve |
| Boat Cruise | Hippopotamus and crocodile boat cruise in St Lucia |
The comprehensive package ensures a seamless and immersive safari experience, allowing travelers to focus on the incredible wildlife and natural wonders of the region.
Hippopotamus and Crocodile Boat Cruise
One of the highlights of the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Overnight Safari is the boat cruise through the St Lucia estuary to observe hippopotamuses and crocodiles in their natural habitat.
The cruise offers a unique opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their element. Some key highlights of the boat cruise include:
- Seeing hippopotamuses lounging in the water and interacting with one another.
- Spotting crocodiles basking on the banks or hunting for prey.
- Learning about the ecology and behavior of these fascinating animals from the knowledgeable guide.
- Enjoying the serene and picturesque surroundings of the St Lucia estuary.
The boat cruise is a thrilling and educational addition to the overall safari experience.
Private Game Reserve Safari
After the boat cruise, the safari experience continues with a visit to an exclusive Private Game Reserve.
Here, guests embark on a thrilling 3-hour late afternoon game drive. The focus is on spotting the elusive big cats, such as lions and leopards, as they begin to stir from their daytime slumber.
This private reserve offers a more intimate and personalized safari encounter compared to the larger public reserves.
Travelers have the opportunity to observe the diverse flora and fauna of this protected ecosystem, gaining a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of the African wilderness.
Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Drive
The next day dawns early, as guests embark on a 6-hour game drive through the renowned Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, the second oldest in the world.
This extensive safari focuses on tracking Africa’s Big 5 and other species, including:
- Giraffes, gracefully browsing on the tree canopy.
- Cheetahs, the fastest land animals, scanning the horizon.
- Wild dogs, an endangered predator, hunting in packs.
- Majestic elephants, matriarchs leading their families.
The experienced guide shares insights about the diverse flora and fauna, creating an immersive wildlife experience.
Guests have the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring beauty and delicate balance of this iconic South African ecosystem.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Vehicle Used for Safari Comfortable and Safe?
The vehicles used for the safari are comfortable and safe, designed to provide an enjoyable and secure wildlife viewing experience. The guide ensures proper safety measures are followed throughout the excursion.
What Should I Bring for the Safari Experience?
Guests should bring comfortable clothing, closed-toe walking shoes, a camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a lightweight jacket for cooler temperatures. It’s also recommended to pack snacks and water to stay hydrated during the safari experience.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, the itinerary can be customized to meet individual preferences. Travelers can work with the tour operator to adjust activities, timing, and focus areas within the overall safari experience based on their interests and needs.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Hidden Costs?
The package price appears to include all meals, accommodation, and transfers, with no additional fees or hidden costs mentioned. Customers can expect a transparent and comprehensive safari experience based on the provided details.
Is This Safari Suitable for Children or Families?
This safari is suitable for both children and families. The small group size, focus on wildlife, and included meals and accommodation make it a great option for those traveling with kids.
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The Sum Up
Embark on an immersive 2-day safari adventure from Durban, exploring the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve. Witness the Big 5 and other wildlife up close through a thrilling boat cruise and guided game drives. With small group sizes and expert guides, this all-inclusive package offers a memorable and personalized safari experience in South Africa’s oldest protected area.