Best of KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife 9-Day Tour
This birding and wildlife safari leads you through spectacular landscapes to extraordinary destinations in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, including two World Heritage Sites renowned for bird and mammal sightings and numerous Important Birding Areas. The tour showcases KwaZulu-Natal’s rich biodiversity, and we optimize your chances of encountering many endemics, specials and other highly sought-after species.
The itinerary covers a wide altitudinal range from near sea level to 2,900 metres and, therefore, many varied habitats supporting a wide variety of species.
The route offers an extensive bird list of over 600 species. Our sightings goal is 320+ bird species in summer (including 8 endemics, many raptor and owls) and 250+ in winter. We also expect to encounter more than 50 mammal species, including the Big 5, and many other large and nocturnal predators, along with diverse reptiles, amphibians, butterflies, and orchids.
Safari Highlights include:
Exploring the dramatic Drakensberg Mountains (2 nights)
A birding day trip by 4×4 up into Lesotho via the scenic Sani Pass
Birding the lush grasslands, misty wetlands, leafy forests and streams of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands (1 night)
Searching the verdant bushveld region of Zululand and Maputaland for large and predatory mammals and extraordinary bird diversity of St Lucia, the Eastern Shores and Mkhuze Game Reserve (4 nights)
Exploring towering forests and mangroves in search of several ground and treetop endemic birds (1 night)
A fig forest walk in Mkhuze
Big 5 mammals in Mkhuze and iSimangaliso, and numerous rare small mammals
Visiting two World Heritage Sites – the Maloti-Drakensberg Park and iSimangaliso Wetland Park
Habitats Explored
Numerous forest types, woodlands, savanna, wetlands, riverine areas, grassland, mountains, cliffs, rocky slopes, shorelines and estuaries, indigenous scarp and mist belt forests, which host many regional endemics, threatened and endangered mammal and bird species, as well as great floral diversity. Each destination offers extraordinary scenery, providing you with unparalleled photographic opportunities.
Tour Overview
Map
A. Drakensberg
Drakensberg, South AfricaB. Sani Pass
Sani Pass, South AfricaC. KwaZulu-Natal
KwaZulu-Natal, South AfricaD. Karkloof Nature Reserve
Karkloof Nature Reserve, South AfricaE. iSimangaliso Wetland Park
South AfricaF. uMkhuze Game Reserve
5 Kingfisher Avenue, eMkhuze, 3965, South AfricaG. oNgoye Forest
oNgoye Forest, South AfricaH. Dlinza Forest Aerial Boardwalk, Eshowe
Oftebro St, Eshowe, 3815, South AfricaDays 1 & 2: Sani Pass & Southern Drakensberg Foothills
High-Altitude Mountain Passes and Alpine Endemics
Journey into the Drakensberg foothills to explore montane grasslands, temperate forests, and high-altitude scarp habitats. Take a 4x4 expedition up the iconic Sani Pass into Lesotho to track rare alpine endemics while taking in mountain panoramas.
Meals: Day 1: Dinner; Day 2: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 365 km
Sani Pass
Sani Pass is a breathtaking mountain route that connects South Africa and Lesotho, renowned for its stunning scenery and panoramic views. This high-altitude pass offers adventure seekers the chance to hike and drive off-road while immersing themselves in the rich culture of local Basotho communities.
Target Mammals: Sloggett's Ice Rat, Mountain Reedbuck, Grey Rhebok, Eland, Chacma Baboon
Target Birds: Drakensberg Rockjumper, Drakensberg Siskin, Bearded Vulture, Cape Vulture, Gurney's Sugarbird, Sentinel Rock-Thrush, Ground Woodpecker, Southern Bald Ibis, Wattled Crane, Blue Crane, Grey-crowned Crane
Mkomazana Mountain Cottages | The Gateway to Sani Pass
Experience the beauty of nature at Mkomazana Mountain Cottages, where stunning mountain views and direct access to outdoor activities await. Enjoy charming self-catering cottages that provide a rustic retreat, while being just a stone's throw away from the adventure-filled Sani Pass. Unwind in a tranquil setting, perfect for relaxation and wildlife sightings.
Day 3: Karkloof & Midlands Wetlands
Mistbelt Forest Walks and Wetland Sanctuaries
Travel north through the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, exploring mistbelt forest canopies, lake shorelines, and altitudinal wetlands. Target specialized forest species alongside all three of South Africa's native crane species.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 320 km
Karkloof Conservation Centre
At the Karkloof Conservation Centre, immerse yourself in the beauty of nature through guided walks showcasing rich biodiversity. Discover the center's commitment to conservation, engaging with interactive exhibits. With endangered species and stunning views of Karkloof Valley, every visit supports vital wildlife rehabilitation efforts.
Target Mammals: Samango (Blue) Monkey, Serval, Cape Clawless Otter, Bushbuck
Target Birds: Cape Parrot, Knysna Turaco, Olive Bush-Shrike, White-starred Robin, Chorister Robin-Chat, Wattled Crane, Blue Crane, Grey-crowned Crane, Red-chested Flufftail
Thistledown Country House
Thistledown Country House is set in a picturesque location, surrounded by lush gardens, offering a perfect blend of comfort and nature. Guests can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching, along with a warm atmosphere and personalized service. The elegantly styled rooms and gourmet breakfast made from local ingredients enhance the experience.
Days 4 & 5: St Lucia & iSimangaliso Wetland Park (Eastern Shores)
Coastal Forests and Estuarine Wilderness
Head to the Indian Ocean coast to explore Benvie Gardens and the coastal forests, dunes, and estuarine waters of St Lucia. Experience game drives and boat cruises through UNESCO World Heritage habitats.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 210 km.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park
iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a remarkable destination showcasing diverse ecosystems from beaches to wetlands. As South Africa's first World Heritage Site, it features the largest estuarine system in Africa and is rich in wildlife. Visitors can enjoy thrilling outdoor activities, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Target Mammals: Hippopotamus, Nile Crocodile, Red Duiker, Bushbuck, Samango Monkey, Vervet Monkey, Southern Reedbuck
Target Birds: Livingstone's Turaco, Southern Banded Snake Eagle, Woodward's Batis, Green Coucal, Rudd's Apalis, African Pygmy Goose, Mangrove Kingfisher, Pink-backed Pelican
AmaZulu Lodge
Experience the charm of AmaZulu Lodge, located near the breathtaking iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Enjoy comfortable accommodations adorned with authentic African decor, and savor traditional South African dishes at the on-site restaurant. With friendly staff dedicated to personalized service, your stay promises to be both relaxing and enriching.
Days 6 & 7: uMkhuze Game Reserve & iSimangaliso Western Shores
Sand Forests, Pans, and Savanna Big Game
Explore the Western Shores of iSimangaliso before moving deep into uMkhuze Game Reserve. Search for big game, rare sand forest specials, and diverse birdlife around seasonal pans and riverine forests.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 90 km.
Mkuze Game Reserve
Mkuze Game Reserve offers an incredible wildlife experience with diverse species such as elephants and lions. Its stunning landscapes, featuring wetlands and savannahs, provide a picturesque backdrop. Unique to the reserve is the rare white rhino population and exceptional birdwatching opportunities with over 400 species to spot.
Target Mammals: White Rhinoceros, Black Rhinoceros, Leopard, Cheetah, African Elephant, Nyala, Giraffe, Slender Mongoose
Target Birds: Pel's Fishing Owl, Neergaard's Sunbird, Pink-throated Twinspot, African Broadbill, White-throated Robin-Chat, Gorgeous Bush-Shrike, Broad-billed Roller
Mantuma Camp
Discover Mantuma Camp, a scenic getaway where nature meets comfort. Enjoy wildlife viewing and outdoor activities, all while staying in well-equipped accommodations. With guided tours and close proximity to nature reserves, this camp offers a unique camping experience enhanced by modern amenities.
Day 8: uMkhuze to Eshowe via Umlalazi & Ongoye Forest
Rare Coastal Scarp Forest Endemics
Travel south from uMkhuze through the coastal mangrove swamps of Umlalazi to the ancient Ongoye Scarp Forest. Focus on tracking highly localized habitat specialists like the Green Barbet.
Meals: Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 257 km.
Ongoye Forest
Ongoye Forest is a stunning natural haven showcasing rich biodiversity and serene walking trails. This tranquil atmosphere invites visitors to unwind while exploring unique flora and fauna, including rare species exclusive to the area. Ancient trees and their cultural significance add to the forest's charm, making it a must-visit destination.
Target Mammals: Red Duiker, Bushbuck, Vervet Monkey, Zebra
Target Birds: Green Barbet, Palm-nut Vulture, Mangrove Kingfisher, African Broadbill, Spotted Ground Thrush
Day 9: Dlinza Forest & Sappi Stanger to Airport
Canopy Aerial Boardwalk and Departure
Spend your final morning walking above the tree canopy in Dlinza Forest before stopping at the industrial wetlands of Sappi Stanger en route to King Shaka International Airport.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Distance Traveled: 135 km
Dlinza Forest Aerial Boardwalk, Eshowe
Explore the Dlinza Forest Aerial Boardwalk, where a stunning suspended walkway invites you to experience the vibrant forest canopy. Marvel at diverse flora and fauna while enjoying breathtaking views. With educational signage and a focus on sustainability, this enchanting attraction promises an unforgettable adventure in nature.
Target Mammals: Blue Duiker, Vervet Monkey
Target Birds: Spotted Ground Thrush, Crowned Hornbill, Eastern Bronze-naped Pigeon, Black-throated Wattle-eye, African Pygmy Kingfisher
What's Included
What's included
Accommodation (may change subject to availability, in which case similar will be found)
All ground transport in a luxury touring vehicle
Private wildlife and birding guide
All road tolls and parking fees.
All breakfasts, dinners, tea and coffee
Bottled water in vehicles – 2 per person per day
All entrance fees, conservation and community levies to parks and reserves
Trip guide and personalised checklists
Specialist guide fees – 1 day Sani Pass 4×4 Tour, uMkhuze fig forest walk
What's not included
All airfares, airport departure taxes or visa fees.
Travel and medical insurance (incl. personal equipment and repatriation).
All lunches, snacks and drinks (except bottled water)
Optional excursions
Specialist guide fees and activities not specified.
Gratuities for guides and local restaurants.
Items of a personal nature.
Laundry and telephone charges.
Anything not listed under “Included”.
Pricing
About Us
Sustain Safaris helps nature lovers explore their wildest dreams. We lead experienced global wildlife travelers on captivating and responsible expeditions to find Sub-Saharan Africa's rarest, most cryptic, elusive, and endemic species in the most extraordinary destinations.
We offer highly specialized nature tours and expeditions which will immerse you in unique destinations that showcase some of the very best mammal, bird, and biodiversity hotspots.
Guided by our passionate regional experts, you’ll encounter not only iconic species but also enjoy a holistic nature-based and cultural-based experience with comfortable to luxury lodging. Our small groups will also ensure a personalized experience throughout our journey together.
Sustain Safaris is not a volume operator. We go the extra mile, every time. We understand every client has unique needs and we offer bespoke itineraries catering for your preferences and budget.