Hluhluwe

Located on the Elephant Coast in KwaZulu-Natal, this small town is known for its natural diversity, national parks and recreational activities.

Find Hluhluwe along the Hluhluwe River, a hub of beautiful natural areas and exotic animals. See elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos and buffalo in the game reserves. Take a guided or self-guided safari in one of several reserves and visit stunning wetland areas.

A major center of tourism in KwaZulu-Natal, this town offers a wide selection of outdoor activities. Ride horseback along a serene nature trail, take a boat cruise or visit a crocodile park.

Explore one of the oldest proclaimed nature reserves in Africa, the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve. At about 370 square miles (960 square kilometers), this reserve has diverse wildlife, riverbeds and steep hilly country. See the endangered black rhinoceros and one of the world’s largest populations of southern white rhinos. Discover many other African animals including hippos, zebras and hyenas.

Tour the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the east coast of KwaZulu-Natal, spanning 137 miles (220 kilometers) of beautiful coastline. Explore the subtropical dune forests, wetlands and savannas. See the Nile crocodiles, marine turtles, whales and dolphins. Book a deep sea fishing charter or game viewing tour. Experience a kayak safari or walk along the untouched sandy beaches at Cape Vidal and Sodwana Bay.

Enjoy boating, fishing, bird watching, horse riding and self-guided hiking trails at False Bay. The bay is only 10 miles (16 kilometers) from the center of Hluhluwe. Snorkel and scuba dive in the warm water near the Coastal Forest.

The town has a small airport designed for light aircraft; however, if you are traveling from the Matsapha Airport, the drive is about 160 miles (260 kilometers). From King Shaka International Airport, the drive to Hluhluwe is around 150 miles (240 kilometers). With everything from luxury game lodges to smaller self-catered cottages, you’ll find the right accommodations to suit your budget.

When visiting Hluhluwe, book a turtle tour at the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and discover the last major nesting site in Africa of the loggerhead and leatherback turtles.