Hluhluwe Imfolozi Safari & ISimangaliso ST Lucia Boat Safari

The tour begins with a scenic drive north from Durban to the coastal town of St Lucia, situated within the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park—South Africa’s first UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, you'll embark on a two-hour guided boat cruise through the estuary, where your local guide will share fascinating insights into the park's ecological importance and the incredible diversity of wildlife. The wetlands are home to South Africa’s largest population of hippos, an estimated 1,000 crocodiles, and countless bird and plant species. The park also supports an extraordinary range of life including African elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo, as well as marine species like whales, dolphins, and nesting sea turtles such as the leatherback and loggerhead. Stretching over 328,000 hectares with 280 km of largely untouched coastline, iSimangaliso stands out for its biodiversity and natural beauty packed into a relatively compact area.

After the boat safari, the journey continues to the renowned Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, the oldest in South Africa and one of the continent’s most important conservation areas. Spanning 98,000 hectares, this diverse and hilly reserve offers the opportunity to encounter Africa’s iconic Big 5—lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhino. You’ll tour the park in a closed vehicle with a knowledgeable guide who will help spot wildlife and explain the park’s unique flora and fauna. Hluhluwe, the northern section, is particularly rich in bird and animal life, while the Imfolozi section in the south is famed for its successful white rhino conservation programs, anchored by the Centenary Capture Centre. Midway through the safari, you’ll pause at Hilltop Camp for a relaxing meal (own expense) with panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness before continuing your exploration of the park and heading back to Durban.