KwaZulu-Natal Zululand 5-Day Tour
Embark on an immersive 5-day overland expedition through the premier game reserves and pristine wilderness areas of KwaZulu-Natal’s Zululand and Maputaland (Elephant Coast) regions. Round-trip from Durban, this medium-paced safari primarily focuses on observing the region's extraordinary mammal diversity—targeting approximately 40 mammal species, including the Big Five, cheetahs, and African wild dogs—while offering exceptional opportunities to view over 300 bird species.
Guided by expert naturalists, the itinerary traverses a rich tapestry of habitats ranging from savanna bushveld and rare sand forests to coastal lagoons and riverine canopies across iconic destinations like Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park and iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Safari Highlights include:
Exploring the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a World Heritage Site
Finding the Big 5 in the oldest game reserve in Africa, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park and the Mkuze section of iSimangaliso, plus numerous rarer small mammals
Habitats Explored
Habitat types vary greatly from savanna to woodlands, sand forests to coastal and riverine forests, wetlands and lakes to flooded grasslands, and estuaries to seashores, which host numerous 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
At a glance
Thursday, November 26, 2026
Friday, November 27, 2026
Saturday, November 28, 2026
Sunday, November 29, 2026
Monday, November 30, 2026
Day 5: Mkuze Game Reserve to Durban
Map
A. Durban
Durban, South AfricaB. iSimangaliso Wetland Park
South AfricaC. Muzi Pan
Ezineshe, South AfricaD. Mkuze Game Reserve
5 Kingfisher Avenue, eMkhuze, 3965, South AfricaE. Umlalazi Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife park
eMthunzini, 3867, South AfricaF. oNgoye Forest
oNgoye Forest, South AfricaG. Dlinza Forest Nature Reserve
Eshowe, 3815, South AfricaThursday, November 26, 2026
Day 1: Durban to St Lucia & iSimangaliso Eastern Shores
Coastal Forests, Lakes, and Estuarine Birding
Departing Durban, we travel north to St Lucia, gateway to South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, iSimangaliso Wetland Park. We spend the day exploring coastal forest trails, dune canopies, and estuarine shorelines along the Eastern Shores, staying out into the evening for nocturnal wildlife.
Meals: Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 250 km.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park
iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing a remarkable variety of ecosystems, such as wetlands and coral reefs. Visitors can encounter diverse wildlife, including elephants and over 500 bird species, while enjoying stunning landscapes. The park offers activities like hiking and snorkeling, making it a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts.
Target bird species: African Finfoot, African Skimmer, Black Coucal, Black-throated Wattle-eye, Crested Guineafowl, Crowned Eagle, Green Malkoha, Green Twinspot, Livingstone’s Turaco, Mangrove Kingfisher, Narina Trogon, Rosy-throated Longclaw, Southern Banded Snake Eagle, Spotted Ground Thrush, Swamp Nightjar, Woodward’s Batis
Target mammals: Blue duiker, hippo, leopard, red duiker, Samango (blue) monkey, serval, side-striped jackal, spotted hyena, thick-tailed bushbaby, white-tailed mongoose
AmaZulu Lodge
Check inThursday, Nov 26, 2026
Check outFriday, Nov 27, 2026
AmaZulu Lodge in St Lucia offers a serene atmosphere surrounded by beautiful gardens and wildlife. With its traditional African decor and proximity to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, guests can immerse themselves in nature. Enjoy personalized service and relax by the outdoor swimming pool, making your stay memorable.
Friday, November 27, 2026
Day 2: Western Shores to Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park
From Estuary Shores to Historic Big Five Savanna
We begin with a morning drive through the Western Shores section of iSimangaliso before heading inland into the acacia bushveld and rolling hills of Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park. Here, we transition to Big Five game viewing and open-country raptor tracking as we make our way toward Mpila Rest Camp.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 110 km.
Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park
Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park is a remarkable wildlife haven, renowned for its diverse landscapes and home to the Big Five. This historic reserve boasts significant conservation achievements, particularly in protecting the white rhino. Visitors can explore scenic driving routes and walking trails, making each encounter with nature unforgettable.
Target bird species: Black-rumped Buttonquail, Crowned Eagle, Knysna Turaco, Lappet-faced Vulture, Lemon-breasted Canary, Martial Eagle, Narina Trogon, Southern Bald Ibis
Target mammals: African buffalo, African elephant, African wild dog, black rhino, caracal, cheetah, giraffe, hippo, leopard, lion, spotted hyena, white rhino
Mpila Camp, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife
Check inFriday, Nov 27, 2026
Check outSunday, Nov 29, 2026
Experience the unique charm of Mpila Camp, located in the heart of Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, where diverse wildlife awaits. Enjoy self-catering options and immerse yourself in nature, with guided game drives and scenic hiking trails at your doorstep. This eco-friendly camp promises a memorable adventure amidst breathtaking surroundings.
Saturday, November 28, 2026
Day 3: Imfolozi Wilderness Section
Deep Wilderness Safaris & Apex Predator Tracking
A full day dedicated to exploring the vast southern Imfolozi section of the park. We traverse open savannas, riverine thickets, and game hides along the Black and White iMfolozi rivers, targeting apex predators, megafauna, and large soaring birds.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 50 km.
Target bird species: Crowned Eagle, Knysna Turaco, Lappet-faced Vulture, Martial Eagle, Narina Trogon, Southern Bald Ibis
Target mammals: African buffalo, African elephant, African wild dog, black rhino, cheetah, giraffe, honey badger, leopard, lion, pangolin, spotted hyena, white rhino
Mpila Camp
You will spend a final evening at the wonderful Mpila Camp
Sunday, November 29, 2026
Day 4: Hluhluwe Section to Mkuze Game Reserve
Rolling Bushveld Hills to Sand Forest Endemic Hotspots
After a morning game drive in the northern Hluhluwe section, we depart for Mkuze Game Reserve. Upon arrival, we transition into Mkuze’s famous sand forests, fever tree thickets, and world-class bird hides to search for specialized endemic species.
Meals Included: Breakfast & 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 bird species: African Broadbill, Eastern Nicator, Green Barbet, Green Twinspot, Livingstone’s Turaco, Neergard’s Sunbird, Pel’s Fishing Owl, Pink-throated Twinspot, Woodward’s Batis, Yellow-streaked Greenbul
Target mammals: African buffalo, African elephant, Cape porcupine, cheetah, giraffe, honey badger, leopard, lion, red duiker, suni, white rhino
Mantuma Camp
Check inSunday, Nov 29, 2026
Check outMonday, Nov 30, 2026
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.
Monday, November 30, 2026
Day 5: Mkuze Game Reserve to Durban
Sand Forest Hide Birding & Coastal Departure
On our final morning, we conduct early walk and hide-based birding in Mkuze’s unique sand forests and wetlands to locate any remaining target species. Around midday, we begin our return transfer south to Durban, where our expedition concludes.
Meals: Breakfast
Target bird species: African Broadbill, Eastern Nicator, Green Twinspot, Livingstone’s Turaco, Narina Trogon, Neergard’s Sunbird, Pel’s Fishing Owl, Pink-throated Twinspot
Target mammals: Blue duiker, Cape porcupine, cheetah, giraffe, honey badger, red duiker, suni, white-tailed mongoose
Distance traveled: Approximately 295 km.
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 x Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park Night Drive, 1 x Mkuze Game Reserve Night Drive
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.