Realm of the legendary Zulu kings and steeped in Zulu tradition, KwaZulu Natal lies between the Indian Ocean and the mountain peaks of the uKhahlamba Drakensberg World Heritage Site. Its attractions are manifold, ranging from Stone Age cave paintings to the cosmopolitan, modern appeal of Durban. Battlefields that witnessed the bloodshed of Zulu, Boer and British come to life, golden beaches and beautiful country provide the backdrop for a wide range of outdoor activities, the Elephant Coast is home to Big Five reserves of international repute whilst the many million strong sardine run and its pursuing predators is an unforgettable glimpse of nature on an awesome scale.
Recommended accommodation
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Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse
An idyllic retreat for gourmets who want to get away from it all, Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse lies by a tranquil lake tucked away in the beautiful Kamberg Valley.
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Fugitives Drift Lodge
Close to the battlefields of Islandlwana and Rorke’s Drift, Fugitives’ Drift Lodge is the brainchild of the late historian David Rattray.
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Phinda Private Game Reserve
One of Africa’s most ecologically diverse reserves, Phinda is described as “Seven Worlds of Wonder,” with its seven distinct habitats and seven sophisticated and unique lodges.
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Thonga Beach Lodge
Set in KwaZulu-Natal on the Maputuland coast above one of the most unspoilt, secluded beaches on the African continent, this 24-bed lodge is the ultimate in true barefoot luxury.
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Thanda
This outstanding retreat combines Big Five game viewing in the private reserve with superb coastal activities such as seasonal whale-watching, diving and horse riding on the beach.
Sample itinerary
DAY 1 LONDON/JOHANNESBURG
Schedule overnight flight from London to Johannesburg.
DAY 2 JOHANNESBURG/CLEOPATRA FARMHOUSE
Connect with the schedule flight to Durban. On arrival collect the hire car and self drive to Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse for a 3 night stay.
DAY 3 - 4 CLEOPATRA MOUNTAIN FARMHOUSE
2 days spent walking and exploring the Drakensburg.
DAY 5 CLEOPATRA FARMHOUSE/FUGITIVES' DRIFT
Self drive from the Drakensburg to Fugitives' Drift for a 2 night stay.
DAY 6 FUGITIVES' DRIFT
A full day battlefield tour at Islandlwana and Rorke's Drift.
DAY 7 FUGITIVES' DRIFT/PHINDA FOREST LODGE
Self drive from Fugitives' Drift to Phinda for a 3 night stay.
DAY 8 - 9 PHINDA FOREST LODGE
3 days of activities including game drives, bush walks, boat trips and coastal dune trips.
DAY 10 PHINDA FOREST LODGE/ROCKTAIL BAY
Self drive from Phinda Forest Lodge to Rocktail Bay Lodge for a 4 night stay.
DAY 11 - 13 ROCKTAIL BAY LODGE
3 days spent exploring the pristine beaches and rare dune forest, bird and turtle watching, snorkelling, scuba diving and relaxing on the beach or by the pool.
DAY 14 ROCKTAIL BAY LODGE/JOHANNESBURG
Self drive from Rocktail Bay Lodge to Richards Bay to drop off the hire car. Take the schedule flight to Johannesburg and connect with the overnight schedule flight to London.
DAY 15 LONDON
Early morning arrival into London.
Price from £2,830 excluding flights and some meals and drinks at Cleopatra's.
Please call us for a bespoke itinerary and quotation.
