Hafen
Richards Bay

Drive through Bonamanzi Game Reserve in a safari-style vehicle with an open-top that allows for uninterrupted views of the wildlife. The privately owned reserve is remarkably bio-diverse. While Africa’s iconic Big Four – elephants, leopards, rhinos and Cape buffaloes – are plentiful and certainly the shows-stoppers, there are plenty of other intriguing animals living in the sand forests, savannahs and wetlands. You can expect to see giraffes foraging on leaves in rgw tree canopy, enormous crocodiles basking in the sun and red duikers grazing in the open grasslands. Birds are particularly abundant, including threatened species such as the lemon-breasted canary, iridescent Neergaards sunbird and pink-throated twinspot. The latter is easy to identify by its white-spotted belly and distinctive high-pitched trill. The driver knows where the animals tend to gather and will describe them in detail. Following the game drive, you will be served lunch at the Bonamanzi Lodge along the Steelpoort River.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Look for Africa’s most iconic wildlife on a game drive through Bonamanzi Game Reserve.
• Learn fascinating details about the animals from the expert guide and driver.
• Enjoy unobstructed views from the open-top, safari-style vehicle.
• Linger over a lunch of regional dishes at the Bonamanzi Lodge after the game drive.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Explore the culture and traditions of the Zulu tribe during this enlightening visit to the entrancing DumaZulu Traditional Village. Drive north to the DumaZulu Traditional Village, also known as Thundering Zulu, where more than 50 tribal residents form part of a living museum that offers a genuine Zulu cultural experience. Find that DumaZulu is the largest village of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere and the only Zulu community to be opened up to tourism by King Goodwill Zwelithini, who placed the royal Zulu stamp of approval on the village’s objectives and authenticity. After enjoying a cooling refreshment, meet your guides and accept an invitation into the chief’s homestead, or kraal, where you can watch and learn about the tribe’s various traditions, including basket-weaving, spear- and shield-making, beadwork, pottery-sculpting, sangoma bone throwing, which is a form of divination, and fabulous dancing. You’ll treasure your arresting immersion into the bewitching Zulu way of life during this remarkable excursion.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Delve into an authentic Zulu cultural experience at the DumaZulu Traditional Village.
• Savor a cooling refreshment before meeting your knowledgeable native guides.
• Enter the chief’s homestead, or kraal, to observe Zulu traditions of basket-weaving, beadwork and weapon-crafting, among others.
• See the healer, or sangoma, practicing a type of divination known as bone throwing.
• Soak up the rhythms of the Zulu’s mesmerizing dancing.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.

Revel in South Africa’s sublime natural beauty and wildlife during this superb game drive at the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park. Settle in for a picturesque drive north to the park’s Memorial Gate, where you’ll enjoy a brief stop to change over into your open-air, off-road safari vehicle.

During your approximately two-hour game drive, marvel at the expansive views and photo opportunities of the pristine scenery surrounding you. Discover the park is well-known for its small population of rare white rhinos and a spectacular variety of bird and animal life, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, blue wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, cheetahs, mountain reedbuck, kudu and warthogs.

As you journey through the park’s rolling landscapes, keep your camera on hand, as you may encounter many of these glorious creatures up close. Prepare to make lifetime memories during this immersion into the natural habitat of some of the world’s most majestic wildlife.

OVERVIEW

Marvel at South Africa’s abundant bird and wildlife species during this scenic cruise in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site for its enormous ecological value. Drive north to the breathtaking iSimangaliso Wetland Park, where you’ll board a boat for a leisurely, approximately two-hour cruise on Lake Saint Lucia, Southern Africa’s largest estuarine lake, which covers an area of approximately 217 square miles. Keep a sharp eye out for bird-rich islands that are home to thousands of feeding pelicans, waders and other waterfowl that comprise the more than 526 different avian species who call the wetlands home. Catch sight of the basking and nesting sites of the famed Nile crocodile as well as the hippos that thrive in the estuary, and discover that this is the greatest confluence of both of these creatures to be found in South Africa. You’re sure to cherish your time spent amid the natural wonders and teeming wildlife of this splendid region.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Embark on a boat for an approximately two-hour exploration of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Cruise on ecologically vital Lake Saint Lucia, Southern Africa’s largest estuarine lake.
• Glimpse pelicans, waders and myriad other varieties of the wetland’s 526 avian species.
• See Nile crocodiles sunning themselves on the bank or hippos peeking out of the water.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses, binoculars and sunscreen.

OVERVIEW

Walk through the iSimangaliso Wetland Park with an ornithologist that will point out and describe the abundant birds along the way. The biodiversity in the wetlands is so spectacular that UNESCO declared it a World Heritage site, the first such designation in South Africa. This vast area – also known as the St. Lucia Wetlands – is especially a paradise for birders as more than 520 avian species have been identified there. You may see pink-backed pelicans, yellow-billed storks, African spoonbills and white-faced whistling ducks, a striking goose-like bird usually seen in flocks numbering in the hundreds. But birds aren’t the only creatures that you can expect to spot in the wetlands. Chances are, you will see waterbuck and reedbuck antelopes grazing in the park’s grasslands and massive hippos almost completely submerged in the waters to keep their skin moist and cool. A group of hippos is called a “bloat,” a reference to their bulky size.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Observe a variety of birdlife while walking through the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
• Hear fascinating facts about the birds and their behavior from the ornithologist guide.
• Look for African animals such as hippos and antelope, which also thrive in the park.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Discover a diverse collection of crocodiles and snakes at an intriguing reptile park. Take a leisurely hour and 45-minute drive past unspoiled wetlands to Zulu Croc, an unusual reptile park that provides a hands-on experience amid an alluring landscape of savanna bushveld. You’ll find that here you can touch some of the world’s most fascinating creatures under the supervision of expert reptile handlers. Hand feed an iguana or pose for photos with a boa constrictor draped over your shoulders, if you wish, but simply observe the more dangerous and venomous creatures. Learn that Nile crocodiles can weigh up to 1,650 pounds and grow up to 20 feet long, a size they achieve by eating any appetizing morsel within their reach. Should you feel adventurous, stroke a baby croc while it’s being held and, if it’s feeding time, perhaps see adults leaping vertically out of the water to chomp chunks of raw meat. Take in myriad facts about snakes such as venomous puff adders, boomslangs and black mambas or the non-venomous carpet pythons and reticulated pythons, the world’s longest snakes. You’ll thrill to your up-close encounters with the fearsome yet magnificent residents of this enthralling park.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore the world of crocodiles and reptiles at Zulu Croc, an extraordinary interactive park.
• Feed an iguana or take photos with a boa constrictor wrapped around you, under a handler’s supervision.
• Examine the venomous and dangerous park species from a safe, comfortable distance.
• Watch Nile crocodiles eat voraciously, should you visit during feeding time.
• Admire deadly snakes, including the black mamba, puff adder and the reticulated python, the longest snake in the world.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear casual, lightweight and light-colored, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Observe some of Africa’s most iconic animals on a safari-style drive through the Zulu Nyala Private Game Reserve and then recount your adventure over lunch. Soon after heading into the bush in an open-air, 4-wheel-drive vehicle, you can expect to see a variety of magnificent animals that may include African elephants, rhinos and Cape buffalo. Imagine the thrill of pausing in this natural habitat while a towering giraffe meanders by just a few feet away. Or perhaps you will catch sight of a spiral-horned Nyala, a somewhat shy antelope endemic to the region. There is no telling what you will see as the animals roam freely through the protected reserve. Birds are also abundant, and you may spot ostriches, black-headed herons and fork-tailed drongos. Following this wondrous experience in the bush, you will dine at the Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge, a landmark hotel built in the 1940s.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Travel through Zulu Nyala Private Game Reserve in an open-air, safari-style vehicle.
• Look for iconic African animals, including elephants, rhinos, leopards and Cape Buffalo.
• Enjoy a lunch of regional dishes at a landmark lodge in the bush.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Discover the breath-taking natural beauty and abundant wildlife of the Babanango Game Reserve during this panoramic game drive adventure.

Big 5 Babanango Game Reserve 

Depart the pier for an approximately 2.5-hour drive to Big 5 Babanango Game Reserve, located in the heart of Zululand, KwaZulu-Natal. En roure comformt stop is made. This incredible reserve is a showcase for one of the most ambitious rewilding projects in Southern Africa in recent years. Set among the breathtaking topography of the upper White Umfolozi River Valley, the reserve occupies a vast wilderness area of over 20,000 hectares that is steeped in Zulu history and layered upon geological features that date back to the beginning of time. The rugged mountains and valleys provide refuge for an extraordinary diversity of birds, plants, insects, reptiles, and mammals, including the elusive aardvark and aardwolf. With the recent return of the African elephant, Babanango Game Reserve is Big 5.

Weclome and Game Drive

Upon arrival a short welcome stop is done before embarking on un unforgettable game drive adventure.

Traverse the diverse landscapes of the reserve as you seek out the magnificent Big Five and an array of fascinating wildlife. From graceful klipspringers to elusive servals. Capture unforgettable moments and create memories that will last a lifetime as you prepare to be captivated by the untamed beauty of the surroundings and the thrill of encountering wildlife up close during your classic safari.

Bush Lunch Experience & Breathtaking Scenery

Following the 2-hours game drive a special lunch awaits you - set-up in the bush, combining breathtaking scenery with delicious cuisine. Served in a beautiful outdoor setting, the lunch menu features a variety of delectable dishes, each made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. As you savor your meal, you can take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the wildlife that may be grazing nearby. The bush lunch experience at Babanango is a perfect way to break up your day and create unforgettable memories in the heart of the African wilderness.

Upon conclusion of your one of a kind day expereince, re-board your coach for an approximately 2.5-hour transfer back to the pier. En-route comfort stop is done.

Experience some of the finest bird-watching in all of South Africa during this panoramic, half-day nature excursion at the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park.

Richards Bay, iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, Lake St. Lucia, Bird-Watching, Abundant Bird Species

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.30-hour drive north to the beautiful iSimangaliso Wetlands Park (formerly St. Lucia Wetlands Park). Upon arrival and after a brief comfort stop, begin your picturesque, approximately two-hour bird-watching trek with an experienced nature guide. The lake is dotted with marshy, sandbank islands that are home to thousands of birds, with over 526 different bird species extant in the St. Lucia Wetlands Reserve.

Waterbuck, Reedbuck, Hippos, Greater St. Lucia Wetlands Reserve

St. Lucia offers birders some of Zululand's best birdwatching. With hundreds of species recorded in the area, you can be assured of some great birding in one of South Africa's most bio-diverse areas. Birding on foot with waterbuck and reedbuck grazing in the background, and hippos snorting from the pans, makes for an unforgettable birding experience. Established in 1895, the greater St. Lucia Wetlands Reserve is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of South Africa's oldest reserves. The lake itself covers an area of approximately 93,900 acres (about 38,000 hectares), and is one of South Africa's most important waterbird-breeding areas.

Refreshments & Snacks

Following your bird-watching trek, enjoy some refreshments, snacks, and comfort stop. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.30-hour drive back to the pier.

Explore the culture and traditions of the Zulu tribe during this unique and informative, half-day sightseeing excursion to the traditional village of Dumazulu.

Richards Bay, Mtubatuba, Dumazulu Traditional Village

Depart the pier for approximately 1.5-hour drive along the National Highway towards Mtubatuba, then continue north to Dumazulu (Thundering Zulu). Upon arrival, explore the culture and traditions of the Zulu tribe during this unique and informative visit to the traditional village of Dumazulu. The village is home to a number of Zulu residents that form part of a living museum. It is the largest Zulu villages of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, and the only Zulu village to be opened to tourism by King Goodwill Zwelithini, who placed the Royal Zulu stamp of approval on the objectives and authenticity of Dumazulu.

Guided Village Walking Tour, Chief’s Homestead, Zulu Traditions & Demonstrations

Upon arrival, you are welcomed by the village local guides and given a brief introduction in Zulu language, before being invited into the chief's kraal (homestead). Here, savour a unique opportunity to observe and learn more about the various Zulu traditions, including basket-weaving, spear- and shield-making, beadwork, pot-making, sangoma bone-throwing, and traditional Zulu dancing.

Refreshment & Comfort Stop, Curio Shop, Optional Guided Tour of Reptile Conservation Center

Following your tour of the cultural village, proceed for refreshments and a comfort stop, and an opportunity to browse the curio shop for a souvenir of your visit or enjoy an optional educational guided tour of the reptile conservation center. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.5-hour drive back to the pier.

Discover the breath-taking natural beauty and abundant wildlife of the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve during this panoramic, full-day, game-drive excursion.

Richards Bay, National Road, Big 5 Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve, Memorial Gate    

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive north along the National Road en route to the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve. Truly one of the most fascinating parts of Africa, this expansive reserve preserves the wildlife of Zululand, along with the beauty, charm, and tradition of its natural surrounds.

Morning Game Drive, Rhinos, Elephants, Lions, Leopards, Buffaloes, Zebras, Giraffes, Cheetahs

Upon arrival at the Memorial Gate and after a brief comfort stop, receive your safety and tour instructions. Afterward, begin your guided morning safari aboard an open-air, 4WD safari vehicle. The Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve is home to wide array of beautiful and diverse African wildlife, including the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes). In addition, look for wildebeests, zebras, giraffes, cheetahs, and reedbucks, and an abundance of diverse birdlife.

Memorial Gate, Finger Food Lunch, Shopping

Following your game drive, stop for a delicious finger food locally prepared lunch at Memorial Gate area. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to browse the curio shop (time-permitting). At the conclusion of this unforgettable wildlife adventure, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.5-hour transfer back to the pier.  

Experience the spectacular natural beauty and wildlife of South Africa during this picturesque, full-day nature cruise and safari excursion.

Richards Bay, iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, Lake St. Lucia, Nature Cruise, Birdlife, Crocs, Hippos

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.25-hour drive north to the beautiful iSimangaliso Wetlands Park (formerly St. Lucia Wetlands Park). Upon arrival and after a brief comfort stop, embark your awaiting boat for a leisurely, approximately two-hour nature cruise on Lake St. Lucia. The lake is dotted with marshy, sandbank islands that are home to thousands of birds, with over 526 different bird species extant in the St. Lucia Wetlands Reserve. Along the way, view the mangrove swamps, prolific birdlife, world’s second-highest vegetated dunes, and the basking and nesting sites of the Nile crocodile and hundreds of hippos. In fact, this area comprises the greatest occurrence of crocodiles and hippos in South Africa.

Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve, Memorial Gate, Picnic Lunch

Following your cruise on Lake St. Lucia, disembark your boat, re-board your vehicle, and transfer to Memorial Gate, the entrance to the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve. Upon arrival, enjoy a scrumptious picnic lunch. After lunch, meet your ranger/guide, receive your safety and tour instructions, then board your open-air 4WD safari vehicle and begin your exhilarating game drive in the Hluhluwe Reserve.

Hluhluwe Reserve Game Drive, Big Five, Prolific Birdlife

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi is the oldest game reserve in all of Africa. Set in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, the park offers its visitors an array of activities and opportunities, from open vehicle game drives and self-guided walks, to trails and picnic spots with magnificent views. Waterholes are dotted all over the camp, enabling wildlife-spotting at close range. The park spans approximately 237,221 acres (about 96,000 hectares), has an immense variety of flora and fauna, and is hugely popular for its Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes) and vast birdlife, which number more than 300 species existing within the reserve.

Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Rhinos, Buffaloes, Zebras, Giraffes, Cheetahs, Wildebeests

Zulu kings such as Dingiswayo and Shaka hunted and put in place the first conservation laws, where today the Big Five of African legend stalk the verdant savannah. As the home of Operation Rhino in the 1950s and 1960s, the park became world-renowned for its white rhino conservation. It is also home to a spectacular array of beautiful and diverse bird and animal species, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, blue wildebeests, zebras, giraffes, cheetahs, reedbucks, kudus, and warthogs. During your open-air, 4WD safari vehicle game drive, you may encounter them from up-close. Afterward, return to the Memorial Gate, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.5-hour drive back to the pier.

Discover the breath-taking natural beauty and abundant wildlife of the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve during this panoramic, full-day, game-drive excursion by private car, 4x4 vehicle and a private guide/ranger.

Richards Bay, National Road, Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve, Memorial Gate    

Depart the pier aboard your private car for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive north along the National Road en route to the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve. Truly one of the most fascinating parts of Africa, this expansive reserve preserves the wildlife of Zululand, along with the beauty, charm, and tradition of its natural surrounds. Upon arrival at the Memorial Gate and after a brief comfort stop, receive your safety and tour instructions.

Afternoon Game-Drive, Rhinos, Elephants, Lions, Leopards, Buffaloes, Zebras, Giraffes, Cheetahs

Afterward, begin your guided afternoon safari aboard an open-air, 4WD safari vehicle. Your panoramic, approximately two-hour game-drive traverses the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve. The reserve has become renowned for its small population of rare, white rhino, and abounds with a spectacular variety of beautiful and diverse African wildlife and bird species, including the Big Five, (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes). In addition, look for wildebeests, zebras, giraffes, cheetahs, mountain reedbucks, kudus, and warthogs. During your game drive, you may have the opportunity to encounter many of these beautiful animals from up-close.

Private Picnic Spot, Sundowners, Finger Foods, Memorial Gate, Refreshments, Shopping

Following your game-drive, stop at a private picnic spot to enjoy a variety of finger food. Afterward, ride back to the Memorial Gate. Upon arrival and after a brief comfort stop, re-board your private vehicle and commence the approximately 1.5-hour transfer back to the pier.  

Discover the breath-taking natural beauty and abundant wildlife of the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve during this panoramic, full-day, game-drive excursion by private van, 4x4 vehicle and a private guide/ranger.

Richards Bay, National Road, Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve, Memorial Gate    

Depart the pier aboard your private van for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive north along the National Road en route to the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve. Truly one of the most fascinating parts of Africa, this expansive reserve preserves the wildlife of Zululand, along with the beauty, charm, and tradition of its natural surrounds. Upon arrival at the Memorial Gate and after a brief comfort stop, receive your safety and tour instructions.

Afternoon Game-Drive, Rhinos, Elephants, Lions, Leopards, Buffaloes, Zebras, Giraffes, Cheetahs

Afterward, begin your guided afternoon safari aboard an open-air, 4WD safari vehicle. Your panoramic, approximately two-hour game-drive traverses the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve. The reserve has become renowned for its small population of rare, white rhino, and abounds with a spectacular variety of beautiful and diverse African wildlife and bird species, including the Big Five, (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes). In addition, look for wildebeests, zebras, giraffes, cheetahs, mountain reedbucks, kudus, and warthogs. During your game drive, you may have the opportunity to encounter many of these beautiful animals from up-close.

Private Picnic Spot, Sundowners, Finger Foods, Memorial Gate, Refreshments, Shopping

Following your game-drive, stop at a private picnic spot to enjoy a variety of finger food. Afterward, ride back to the Memorial Gate. Upon arrival and after a brief comfort stop, re-board your private vehicle and commence the approximately 1.5-hour transfer back to the pier.

Discover the spectacular wildlife, bird species and flora along the eastern shores of iSimangaliso Wetlands Park during this full-day nature drive with casual BBQ lunch at Cape Vidal.

iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, Game Drive, Africa's Wildlife

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive north along the National Road to St. Lucia, then continue to the Bhangazi Gate of iSimangaliso Wetlands Park. Upon arrival and after a comfort stop, meet your ranger/guide and receive your safety and tour instructions. Afterward, board your open-air, 4WD vehicle and begin your captivating nature drive along the eastern shores of iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, a section of South Africa's first UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Game Reserve, Mapelane Dunes, Zebras, Buffaloes, White Rhinos, Leopards, Elephants, Birdlife

This nature reserve is divided by Mapelane, the highest vegetated dune in South Africa and second-highest in the world. During your nature drive, look for the zebras, kudus, buffaloes, white rhinos, leopards, wildebeests, nyalas, elephants, warthogs, wild dogs, hyenas, and other wildlife and endemic bird species that abound in this beautiful game reserve. In addition, your ranger/guide provides an educational overview of iSimangaliso Wetlands Park.

Mission Rocks, Refreshments

Your game drive continues to Mission Rocks, a rocky beach located approximately 7.4 miles (about 12 kilometres) inside the park. The natural habitat here features a wide array of marine species that make it a valuable contributor to the local biodiversity. Following a refreshment stop at Mission Rocks, re-board your safari vehicle and head to Cape Vidal.

Cape Vidal, Beach Relaxation, Barbecue Lunch

Upon arrival at Cape Vidal, free time is made to relax, unwind, and enjoy a delicious barbecue lunch by the beach. After lunch, re-board your coach and return to the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park gate, then re-board the coach and commence the approximately 1.5-hour drive back to the pier.

Explore Richards Bay at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking driver/guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Richards Bay at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking driver/guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Richards Bay at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking driver/guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Richards Bay at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking driver/guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

South Africa's abundant bird and wildlife species are yours to discover during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing cruise at the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park.

Richards Bay, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Lake St. Lucia, Nature Cruise, Sandbank Islands, Birdlife

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.30-hour drive north to the beautiful iSimangaliso Wetlands Park (formerly St. Lucia Wetlands Park). Upon arrival and after a brief comfort stop, embark your awaiting boat for a leisurely, approximately 1.5 - two-hour nature cruise on Lake St. Lucia. The lake is dotted with marshy, sandbank islands that are home to thousands of birds, with over 526 different bird species extant in the St. Lucia Wetlands Reserve.

Mangroves, Fish Eagles, Oyster Banks, Vegetated Dunes, Crocodiles & Hippos

Along the way, see mangrove swamps, prolific birdlife, oyster banks with stories of days gone by, and the second-highest vegetated dunes in the world. The echo of the fish eagle’s haunting cry can be heard whilst viewing the basking and nesting sites of the Nile crocodile, and hundreds of hippos that make their homes in the estuary; in fact, this area comprises the greatest confluence of crocodiles and hippos in South Africa.

Refreshments & Snacks, Breath-Taking Views

During your cruise, enjoy refreshments and finger-food snacks whilst marvelling at your breath-taking beautiful surrounds. At the conclusion of your nature cruise, return to the embarkation point. Upon arrival, disembark the boat, re-board your coach, and commence the approximately 1.30-hour drive back to the pier.

Explore the diverse landscapes and wildlife at one of the oldest private game reserves in South Africa during this thrilling, full-day safari excursion with lunch at Thula Thula.

Richards Bay, Thula Thula Game Reserve

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.15-hour drive to the Thula Thula Game Reserve, the oldest private game reserve in Kwa-Zula Natal, and former hunting ground of the legendary Zulu King Shaka. Thula Thula (‘peace and tranquillity’ in Zulu) boasts a unique diversity of landscapes, including riverine bush, savannah, and forest.

Main Lodge, Welcome Drink & Cooled Towels, Guided Game Drive

Upon arrival at Thula Thula's gate, a short transfer brings you to the main lodge. After a comfort stop, you are escorted to your awaiting, ten-seat, open-air, 4WD safari vehicle. Meet your experienced ranger/guide, receive your safety and tour instructions, then board your open-air, 4WD safari vehicle for an exhilarating, approximately two-hour game drive on the reserve.

Elephants, Buffaloes, Rhinos, Leopards, Giraffes, Zebras, Hyenas, Crocodiles, Bird Species

Thula Thula is home to a diverse African wildlife population, including the elephant, buffalo, rhinoceros, leopard, giraffe, zebra, nyala, hyenas, crocodile, kudu, wildebeest, and a spectacular variety of other indigenous species, great and small. Bird-life is prolific here with over 350 identified species, including raptors. The re-introduction of a family herd of seven elephants in August 1999 marks the historic return of these great creatures to the area for the first time in 100 years. By the beginning of 2010, the family had grown to a herd of 20 elephants.

Guided Walking Tour, Thula Thula Restaurant, Lunch

During the game drive, enjoy a unique opportunity to explore the beautiful landscape. The qualified rangers plan a specific route according to the fauna and flora in which your group is most interested.  Upon returning to the lodge, proceed for a lovely lunch at the Thula Thula restaurant that includes a selection of local specialities. After lunch and an unforgettable day, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1 hour 30 minutes drive back to the pier.

Enjoy the Umlazi Nature Reserve and its beautiful landscape on a hike on this half-day nature tour.

Umlazi Nature Reserve

An approx. 1-hour transfer takes you to the Umlazi Nature Reserve. The coastal reserve is situated on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. Umlalazi was established as a protected area in 1948 and is 1028 hectares in extent. Home of the Palmnut Vulture, one of the rarest birds of prey in South Africa.

Siyaya Coastal Dune Forest Trail & Bird Spieces

The Siyaya Coastal Dune Forest Trail is circular and begins in the south beach parking area, following the coastal forest next to the Siyaya stream. You may catch a glimpse of various buck. The hike is approximately 4km and Bushbuck, red, grey and blue duiker can be seen on this trail. The trail is well maintained ad clearly marked, so navigating the route is very easy. The first part of the loop takes you through the forested dunes from the car park towards the Siyaya River. This section is gently undulating and relatively easy. Once at the end of this part the route splits and you take the beach route that crosses a footbridge over the Siyaya River and onto the coast where one can then walk back along the sand.

Just outside the reserve is a boardwalk that takes you through a swamp forest and which provides easy access to the heart of the colony of palms where the prime specimens create an awesome cathedral-like effect. The Palm Nut vulture is often seen nesting near the top of the raphia palms.

At the conclusion of your hike, re-board the coach and return to the pier.