South Africa is one of the most diverse and enchanting countries in the world. The exotic combination of landscapes, people, history and culture offer the traveller a unique and inspiring experience. Isabelle and Sheila visited South Africa in August for an adventure packed journey that escorted them through some of the finest game reserves and breathtaking scenery in the world. Their journey covered some 500 miles from Durban to Johannesburg through the Greater St. Lucia Wetlands and Drakesnberg Mountain area. Read their report to find out more or call 0121 250 2211 or 0845 086 9710 to book your South African adventure.
Flight
We flew from Gatwick to Johannesburg with Nationwide Airlines, the only South African airline that is 100% privately owned. The service was excellent and the staff were helpful and friendly. We then caught a connecting flight to Durban.
Durban
Durban, the busiest port in Africa, began life as a remote trading post. Today it is a sunny city, popular all year round with its balmy climate, superb surfing and swimming beaches. In Durban we stayed at the Beverly Hills Hotel, which is in a central location, has plenty of facilities, friendly staff and excellent décor.
We headed to the Cargo Hold at Ushaka Marine Park for dinner. The area has shops, cafes and restaurants as well as a sea world centre. The Cargo Hold restaurant was in the hold of a ship with massive tanks holding sharks and other fish.
Makakatana Bay Lodge, KwaZulu Natal
The next day we travelled through the Greater St. Lucia Wetlands and visited Makakatana Bay Lodge, which is built on decking and offers fantastic views over the river and park. The beautifully decorated rooms are very spacious and provide a homely atmosphere.
Hluhluwe River Lodge, Lake St Lucia
After a three hour journey we arrived at Hluhluwe River Lodge where you can go on game drives and walks through the bush. Situated on the western shore of Lake St Lucia, the lodge commands a spectacular view of the Hluhluwe River floodplain and False Bay. The lodge has twelve thatched chalets dotted around a magnificent indigenous garden each with its own viewing deck.
The next morning we woke at 5.30am, wrapped up warm and headed for the nearby game reserve of Hluhluwe Umfolozi. We saw many animals and so it was well worth the early start. We returned to the lodge for breakfast at 10am and then moved northwards to Amakhosi Lodge.
Amakhosi Lodge, Pongola
AmaKhosi Lodge was our favourite resort. The staff, who are mostly zulu, were so friendly and made everyone feel very welcome. The food was fabulous and the accommodation excellent with views of the Savannah Mountains.
Isandlwana Lodge, KwaZulu Natal
A four hour coach journey brought us to Isandlwana Lodge, which overlooks the battlefields of the Anglo Zulu Wars. As it is built into the Inyoni Rock Formation, the lodge is one-sided and overlooks Mount Isandlwana. Before dinner we were able to walk into the Zulu village nearby.
The next morning the guide talked about the Boer War and pointed out all the places of interest and then took us down to the battlefields where the white mounds mark the buried bodies of the English. This tour was very interesting and left me heavy hearted after listening to stories by the guide.
Cathedral Peak Hotel, KwaZulu Natal
After a four hour drive, we arrived at Cathedral Peak Hotel via Dundee and Ladysmith. This hotel is set in fabulous surroundings at the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains and is renowned for its natural beauty. It has plenty of activities to offer, including horse and pony riding, swimming, tennis, fishing, mountain biking and various walks.
Didima Camp, KwaZulu Natal
The next morning we visited Didima Camp, which is operated by the KwaZulu Natal Wildlife. This resort is well set out and can offer one bedroom units to three bedrooms units with the option of going self catering or bed and breakfast.
Flight home We arrived at Johannesburg airport where we headed for the lounge for a well deserved drink. Please note that a three hour check in at Johannesburg is required to comply with their security.
Summary
Although our itinerary was packed, this was an excellent way to see South Africa with its game reserves, wilderness, history and beautiful scenery. We were treated well by the staff in all the resorts we visited and found South Africa a perfect safari destination. The best time to go for game watching is from August to October as it is South Africa’s spring.
