Hluhluwe Game Reserve

The Hluhluwe Game Reserve in Natal is one of the most beautiful and picturesque game reserves in South Africa. Located 28 km north of Durban on the foothills of the coastal plains of Natal, to the centre of the Hluhluwe River valley, an unusual natural beauty is visible from plains to forest. The game reserve stretches across 23 000 ha of indigenous forest and Zululand and has large grassland savannas, woodlands and forest, such a combination is rarely found in South Africa, much less Africa.

There is a variety of animal life which is a big attraction for visitors, both locally and overseas visitors. Animals that do exist in the game reserve includes the Rhino, Giraffe, Buffalo, Zebra, Monkey, Leopard, Cheetah, Nyala, Wildebeest, Elephants, Bushbuck, Warthog, Kudu, Baboons, Crocodiles, Hippo and Lions.

In addition to the variety of animal life found in the park, another big attraction is the Mbhombe forest. It is a demi deciduous forest which forms a destinctive landmark of the park.

Hluhluwe Game Reserve is one of South Africa's oldest game reserves. The park was established in 1895 along with other reserves in the area, such as St Lucia and Umfolozi. Close to the park is a nearby native village, as well as very conveniently, a river, named umHluhluwe. This river was used in the past by the Zulus to muzzle their valves during weaning.

The Hluhluwe and Umfolozi Game Reserves are joined by a piece of land owned by the government, called “the corridor”, and is treated as one park. The game reserve also has a 2.8 m high fence right around it to keep the animals in, and poachers out. A wildlife sanctuary for the many animals who dwell in safety behind the fences.

The park has picnic spots, dams, rivers, forest and activities for the tourist. Quaint rondawel accommodation, fully furnished is available for the more enthusiastic who wants to overnight in the park. There are qurio shops where stamps, postcards and other mementos can be bought.

The Hluhluwe Game Reserve is located in a malaria area, and it is advised to take insect repellent along when visiting. Malaria pills can also be taken a week before the time.

For the visitor to South Africa, a visit to the Hluhluwe Game Reserve can prove to be a highlight not soon forgotten. It has the beauty of African wildlife, as well as the natural beauty of Natal, where it is said to be always green, and even Afrikaans songs have been written about it.