ithala wildlife

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Ithala Game Reserve is a 29 653-hectare scenic destination and is considered a game viewer’s paradise. It is situated within the rugged and mountainous thornveld about 400 km north of Durban, in northern KwaZulu-Natal. Being proclaimed as a nature reserve in 1973, it is one of the youngest game reserves in South Africa. Ithala Game Reserve’s most admirable characteristic is its astonishing geological diversity which has resulted in the production of a variety of soils and a rich diversity of vegetation. The reserve encompasses densely vegetated river valleys, high-lying grassland plateaus, mountain ridges and cliff faces. The altitude varies from 400 m along the Phongolo River to 1,450 m along the Ngotshe Mountain escarpment.

This game reserve was the setting of many historic events in South Africa, including the reign of Shaka and his successive Zulu kings. Evidence of earlier occupation by middle stone age and iron age people can be seen. Ithala also features some rock formations dating back 3 000 million years and some historic sites wherein stone age spear and ax heads dating back some 20,000 years are found.

Wildlife in Ithala

Ithala Game Reserve is also home to a wide array of wildlife species including giraffe, rhino, elephant, buffalo, zebra, blue wildebeest, impala and a wide variety of antelope including tsessebe, eland, red hartebeest and mountain reedbuck. Visitors will surely enjoy observing all the animals and plants and listening to the sound of chirping birds in the wild.

Things to do in Ithala Game Reserve

Ithala Game Reserve does not only offer a fascinating variety of terrain, history and rich wildlife, it also offers a wide selection of tourist facilities and a variety of game activities such as ranger-guided walks, game drives, swimming, and picnics. It also offers an excellent auto trail. Visitors are welcome to try out the mountain bike trails. Read More

The DumaZulu Traditional Village which is located in Hluhluwe, Zululand, KwaZulu Natal offers a different kind of experience for its vacationers. Situated in the heart of rich cultures of Africa, lies a beautiful village that will give you an insight on how they thrive as a village.

The Village

The DumaZulu Traditional Village prides itself as a place not only to stay and dine but also of a place full of unforgettable experiences. DumaZulu directly translates to “Thundering Zulu” which is a perfect description for this place offers such scenic view and exciting events. It has 21 rounded ethnic huts arranged in a circle around a central cattle traditional African village to resemble the traditional Zulu Village. Experience the traditional KwaZulu Natal culture and hospitality in each hut housing twin rooms and double rooms which includes en-suite bathroom, air conditioning, telephone and tea/coffee making facilities. The exteriors of each living space represent the variety of vast South African tribes such as the Zulu, Swazi, North Sotho, Xhosa, Venda, Tsonga, and Ndebele. The extravagant exteriors represent the warm and intimate colors of Africa.

The Village Life

As its interior and exterior gave you a glimpse of what is their culture, the main event here is really the village life. Discover the Zulu way of life in their cultural village which 60 Zulu residents form part of their living museums. Witness the villagers showing off their craftsman skills by making spears and shields. They also make clay pots, intricate beadwork, and basket weaving. Be also amazed by the magic of the sangoma or the witch doctor of the tribe that would show his skills and prayers. They also showcase bone-throwing and amazing Zulu dances that culminates the cultural experience of the Zulu tribe. These showcasing of tradition and culture typically performed daily at 8:15 and 15:15. After you enjoy these shows you will be treated to its famous and scrumptious lunch that you will surely come back for more. In addition, you can also taste their Zulu beer as one of their famous attractions. At this point, you, will already experience their culture and be amazed at what these people have to offer. Read More