the area discover the rich culture and history of Zululand
The Zulu Kingdom is one of the most naturally diverse and beautiful places in South Africa. Why not make the most of your trip by visiting some of its attractions along the way? Read more about things to do and see en route to Rhino Ridge.
Travelling from Durban?
Many of our guests choose to fly into and drive from Durban, the third-largest city in South Africa. With a warm sub-tropical climate, Durban is South Africa’s favourite holiday resort city, and its modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere and vibrant mix of cultures make it a
worthwhile stop along your way.
Top tourist attractions include the Golden Mile beachfront promenade, the Durban Botanic Gardens, Umgeni River Bird Park, the cultural Indian Quarter, uShaka Marine World, Moses Mabhida Stadium, and many more.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park
Proclaimed as a World Heritage Site in 1999, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park is situated 80kms from the lodge and is an easy 2-hour drive. The area was proclaimed as South Africa’s first World Heritage Site in 1999 by UNESCO. It’s a place of superlative natural beauty, comprising three major lake systems and eight ecosystems with 526 bird species and coastal sand dunes amongst the highest in the world.
St Lucia
St Lucia is two-and-a-half hours’ drive from King Shaka International Airport and is a worthwhile stopover on the way to Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge. You’ll need to drive about half an hour towards the coast, but visiting St Lucia is a wonderful way to experience a taste of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. St Lucia boasts the largest free-roaming hippo population in South Africa and, to this day, hippos
can still be seen wandering down the streets at night.
Taking a boat safari on the St Lucia Estuary is an absolute must where you will see an astonishing number of hippos, birdlife and crocodiles.
Lake St Lucia
Lake St Lucia is Africa's largest estuarine system. Home to over 800 hippos and 1200 crocodiles, this dynamic system hosts large flocks of pelicans, flamingos and a variety of fish and aquatic species. Situated approximately 100kms from the lodge, it is a 2.5-hour drive and offers a wide variety of activities.
Travelling from Kruger Park?
Guests travelling by car from the Kruger National Park exit the park via Crocodile Bridge and then travel through the charming mountain kingdom of Swaziland, winding through hills and valleys on their way to the vibrant province of KwaZulu-Natal. An overnight stop either in Swaziland or just south of the Golela border post in KwaZulu-Natal is advised to break the journey.
Recommended accommodation stops:
Mkhaya Game Reserve -Swaziland
Ghost Mountain Inn