South Africa Safari, Wildlife & Beach Escape

10 Nights / 11 Days – KwaZulu-Natal Highlights

Discover the best of KwaZulu-Natal with a journey combining Big Five safaris, pristine beaches, and rich cultural experiences. This well-balanced itinerary blends wildlife adventure with coastal relaxation, making it ideal for couples, families, and first-time visitors to South Africa.

Day 1 — Welcome to Durban & Umhlanga

A warm welcome awaits on arrival in Durban, followed by a private transfer to your hotel in Umhlanga, set along the warm Indian Ocean coastline. Relax after your journey and enjoy the laid-back seaside atmosphere.

Overnight: 4★ Hotel – Durban / Umhlanga
Meals: Breakfast Included

Day 2 — Journey to the Safari Region

Travel to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the nearby Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve, South Africa’s second oldest Big Five reserve.

Arrive at your private game sanctuary surrounded by forest and wildlife. Your chalet features large glass walls and a private outdoor Jacuzzi. Spend the afternoon at leisure enjoying the peaceful surroundings and abundant birdlife.

Overnight: Leopard Walk Lodge – Hluhluwe
Meals: Breakfast Included

Day 3 & 4 — Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Drives

Embark on extended game drives through the diverse landscapes of Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park with an experienced ranger.

Wildlife sightings may include:

  • Black rhino

  • Elephant and buffalo

  • Giraffe and zebra

  • Nyala, kudu and waterbuck

  • Hippo and crocodile

  • Hyena and wildebeest

  • Lion, cheetah and wild dog (with luck)

The Elephant Coast is also renowned for its birdlife, with over 500 species recorded.

Return to the lodge for relaxed afternoons and evenings surrounded by nature.

Overnight: Leopard Walk Lodge – Hluhluwe
Meals: Breakfast Included

Day 5 — Bush Walk & Zulu Cultural Village

Enjoy a guided bush walk at False Bay within iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Explore the smaller details of the African bush including plants, tracks, and birdlife.

After lunch at a local restaurant, visit a traditional Zulu Cultural Village. Experience traditional dancing, drumming, and learn about local customs and heritage.

Overnight: Leopard Walk Lodge – Hluhluwe
Meals: Breakfast Included

Day 6 — Leisure at the Lodge

Enjoy a relaxed day at Leopard Walk Lodge. Take time to unwind in your private Jacuzzi, explore the surrounding forest, or simply enjoy the tranquil wildlife environment.

Overnight: Leopard Walk Lodge – Hluhluwe
Meals: Breakfast Included

Day 7, 8 & 9 — St Lucia, Cape Vidal & Wild Beaches

Travel to St Lucia, a charming village surrounded by five ecosystems within iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

Highlights include:

St Lucia Estuary Boat Safari

Enjoy a scenic cruise with sightings of:

  • Hippos

  • Crocodiles

  • Birdlife

  • Wetland scenery

Cape Vidal Safari & Beach Experience

A unique day combining safari and coastline:

  • Drive through wildlife areas

  • Spot rhino and antelope

  • Arrive at pristine beaches

  • Swimming and relaxation

  • Explore wild coastal landscapes

Crocodile Sanctuary Visit

Learn about local ecosystems and wildlife conservation.

Evenings are at leisure with restaurants in the village and the possibility of seeing hippos wandering through St Lucia at night.

Overnight: 4★ Guest House – St Lucia
Meals: Breakfast Included

Day 10 — Return to Umhlanga & Oyster Box Experience

Return to Umhlanga for your final evening on the coast.

Enjoy High Tea at the iconic Oyster Box Hotel featuring:

  • Finger sandwiches

  • Freshly baked scones with cream

  • Artisan cakes

  • Fine teas

  • Live piano music

  • Ocean views

A perfect relaxed ending to your safari and beach journey.

Overnight: 4★ Hotel – Durban / Umhlanga
Meals: Breakfast Included

Day 11 — Departure

Transfer to Durban Airport for your onward journey.

Includes

  • 10 nights 4★ accommodation

  • 3 safaris with personal ranger and guide

  • All transport and transfers

  • Fuel and toll gates

  • 10 breakfasts

  • All activities and entry fees

  • Services of personal field guide

Excludes

  • Flights and visas

  • Travel insurance

  • Drinks and refreshments

  • Tips and gratuities

  • Optional extra activities