We were recently treated to the wonderful diversity of the KwaZulu Natal with an educational experience organised by African Safari Collective. This collection of unique, owner-run properties offers a wide variety of activities to suit many interests, while the warm, personal touch of each lodge ensures guests feel right at home.
Our journey started with a delicious lunch at Three Tree Hill Lodge, owned by the Blackburn family. This quaint lodge, with its old-world charm, is nestled in the foothills of the KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg. The surrounding landscape is a tapestry of rolling green hills with acacia and brightly flowering aloes. Nearby, the Spioenkop Nature Reserve and historic Anglo-Boer War battlefields offer plenty to see and do, from fascinating history tours to wildlife walks, birdwatching, horseback riding, and mountain biking. The chalets themselves were charming, each with a stunning view of the rolling hills, the lodge’s wine cellar and library offered a cozy space to unwind after our day of exploration.
Our guide on the Isandlwana Battlefields Tour.
Next, we headed to Fugitives Drift, where the Rattray family welcomed us. Renowned for pioneering battlefield tourism in South Africa, this lodge is perfectly positioned close to the battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. Our guide shared the history with such passion that it felt like we were stepping back in time. The luxurious rooms and comfortable communal areas made it easy to relax, and family-style meals brought guests together, retelling stories of the day’s explorations. We left with a deep appreciation for the history of the region and the dedication of the team keeping it alive.
From the battlefield we traveled to the sunny coast and Makakatana Bay Lodge, situated in the heart of South Africa’s first UNESCO heritage site, iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Here, water-based adventures waited for us, including boat safaris, eco-boat trips, and day excursions to the beach. Owned by the Morrison family, the lodge blends comfort with a closeness to nature. The peaceful coastal forest setting made it the perfect place to reconnect with nature and appreciate the ecological richness of the region.
Mirjam, Kerstin, Kimberley, and Chrisna on the boat cruise on Lake St. Lucia
A quick lunch stop brought us to Sungulwane Private Game Lodge, where we were greeted by a beautiful cheetah lounging near the entrance – an unforgettable welcome! The lodge, set on Munyawana Game Reserve, offers hillside accommodations with panoramic views. During our stay, we spotted a few of the Big Five and enjoyed fresh, flavorful meals prepared with care. The intimate setting created a personal safari experience.
Our final night was at Leopard Mountain Safari Lodge, in the Manyoni Private Game Reserve. The lodge’s main dining and lounge area overlooks a sweeping valley, and each room has a private plunge pool and balcony. We went on open-vehicle safaris guided by knowledgeable experts, who shared stories of the local wildlife and landscapes. Dinner at the boma under a star-filled sky, with a four-course meal and the sounds of the African bush around us, was a perfect finale to the trip.
We are excited to share our passion for showcasing the incredible diversity of KwaZulu-Natal – from breathtaking landscapes to unforgettable cultural experiences. Our team is confident and experienced in creating tours that include some of the region’s most amazing lodges, each offering an unique glimpse into this beautiful part of the world.
We look forward to connecting with you to discuss and plan your future journeys for our travelers. Let’s create amazing memories together!