Natal Battlefields & Bush Safari
Safari Information
- Departure; Daily
- Duration; 8 Days / 7 Nights
- Lodging; Safari Lodges
- Group Size; Minimum 2
- Note: Travel insurance is compulsory for all safaris
Experience the Perfect Blend of History, Adventure, and Wildlife on an 8-Day Safari Through KwaZulu Natal
Embark on an extraordinary 8-day safari adventure in KwaZulu Natal that promises a blend of rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable encounters with South Africa’s remarkable wildlife. Starting with the captivating Spioenkop Game Reserve and ending with the pristine wilderness of Phinda Private Game Reserve, this itinerary delivers an unforgettable travel experience for all adventurers seeking comfort and excitement. With luxurious lodges, immersive tours, and incredible opportunities for discovery, this safari is tailored for both nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Your adventure begins at the historic Three Trees at Spioenkop Lodge, nestled in the shadow of the magnificent Drakensberg Mountains. Here, you’ll uncover the dramatic stories of the Anglo-Boer War while indulging in the lodge's modern comforts, including private decks with stunning valley views. From guided battlefield tours to birding and horseback excursions, this destination offers a rich variety of experiences all set against the backdrop of rolling hills and untouched nature.
The latter half of your safari takes you to the renowned Phinda Private Game Reserve, where diverse habitats and exceptional wildlife encounters await. From thrilling face-to-face moments with Africa’s Big Five to cultural tours and canoe rides along the Mzinene River, Phinda is a sanctuary of unspoiled beauty. With luxurious accommodations at the Phinda Forest Lodge and guided activities designed to bring you closer to nature, this safari ensures an unforgettable conclusion to your KwaZulu Natal adventure.
Days 1-3: Spioenkop Game Reserve
- On arrival at Durban International Airport, pick up your rental car and self-drive to the Northern Drakensberg / Battlefields region of KwaZulu Natal.
- Drive to Three Trees at Spioenkop for your first stopover ± 2-3 hours (travelling at speed limits, no sightseeing) from the Durban International Airport.
- Surrounded by the Drakensberg Mountains, overlooking a secluded valley of the Spioenkop Game Reserve and in the lee of the famous hill, Spioenkop lies Three Trees Lodge.
- The bedrooms are equipped with all the modern conveniences with heated towel rails and 100% cotton percale linen adding to your comfort.
- Each room has its own deck, which offers unimpeded views of the valley and Spioenkop.
- Three Tree Hill Lodge specialises in the history of the 2nd Anglo-Boer War from (1899 - 1902) with the Battle of Spioenkop being our focal point.
- One cannot however hope to understand this watershed event (not just for South Africa - it was 'the longest, the costliest, the bloodiest and most humiliating war that Britain fought in between 1815 and 1914') without studying what caused one of the smallest countries in the world to declare war on the worlds greatest empire of the time.
- The guides, led by Omri nene, bring this dramatic period of our history to life presenting world-class, holistic, evocative and insightful tours.
- Numerous day and half day tours available (optional);
- Battle of Spioenkop tour
- Battle of Colenso & Churchill's capture tour
- Walking
- Hiking in the Drakensberg
- San rock painting sites
- Horse riding
- Game Viewing
- Birding
- Golf
- Accommodation: Three Tree Hill Lodge
Days 4-7: Phinda Private Game Reserve
- After your breakfast, depart for the Phinda Private Game Reserve in the Zululand Region Of KwaZulu Natal.
- Estimated travelling time from Three Trees at Spioenkop to Phinda: ± 5 hours (travelling at a leisurely pace).
- Check into Phinda Forest Lodge and should time allow depart on a late afternoon game drive.
- Face-to-face with lions and rhino, up close to a whale shark or battling sailfish, that's the Phinda experience, one of the most exciting safari destinations in Africa.
- Located between the azure waters of the Indian Ocean and the lush waterways of the World Heritage Greater Saint Lucia Wetland Park, Phinda's 17 500 hectares span seven unique habitats.
- Numerous day and half day tours available (optional);
- Mzinene River canoeing
- Twice daily game drives
- Interpretive bush walks
- Mzinene River boat cruise
- Deep Sea Fishing (optional)
- Flight of the Fish Eagle(optional)
- Scuba safaris(optional)
- Zulu Cultural Tour (optional)
- Accommodation: Phinda Forest Lodge
Day 8: Safari Ends
- After your morning game drive and breakfast, depart for Durban ± 3 to 4 hours (travelling at a leisurely pace).
This Safari is Tailor-made Rates On request
- Natal Battlefields & Bush Safari Rates
- Per person sharing
- Rates are in South African Rands
- *Rates may vary according to season
- Accommodation based on budget
- Vehicle based on budget
- Meals as stated
- Activities as stated
- Local and International Flights
- Visas
- Insurance
- Items of a personal nature
- Gratuities
- Activities not included in above itinerary
- Fuel costs
- Car Hire Insurance
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