Situated 23km north of Hluhluwe, in northern Zululand, Thanda Private Game Reserve is a celebration of the Zulu people and their rich culture. Not only will guests have the opportunity to learn more about the Zulu history and traditions, but will have an unforgettable experience, getting up close with some of South Africa’s most fascinating wild animals.

Thanda Private Game Reserve aims to restore nature's balance by reintroducing species endemic to the area. The rehabilitated land has encouraged the bird and wildlife to flourish, and has assisted in the re-establishment of the natural ecosystem.

Neville and Nigel head out on a drive in an open game viewing vehicle guided by a knowledgeable and experienced game ranger, who shows them some of Zulu’s most fascinating wild heritage including rhinoceroses, giraffes and zebras.

Five species of rhinoceroses exist in the world today and two of these, the white and black, can be found in the Thanda reserve.  The white rhino was almost driven to extinction by relentless hunting. The reserve has been the savior to the species, and over many years White rhinos have been moved from here to restock game parks across South Africa.

The long neck of the giraffe allows it exclusive access to the fresh, young, tender leaves at the top of trees.  They also use their extremely flexible tongue that can get up to 45cm long, to hook around branches and pull them in to nibble on. They can spend 15-20 hours a day feeding, and are usually found in herds of between 4 and 30 individuals wandering the dry savanna woodlands.

The guys encountered a troop of 10 wild elephants and even saw a baby rhinoceros, which they believe was one of the highlights of their time in South Africa. 

The guys also found some interesting wild plants growing in the reserve. These include:

• Kei apple
• Mountain aloe
• Yellow trunked fever tree  

The accommodation at Thanda Reserve is spectacular. Nine luxury villas, each with their own outdoor spa and day bed are perched on a hillside offering guests endless views of the African savannah. The accommodation is right in the middle of the reserve so animals get right up and close. Thanda is the Zulu word for love and the hosts specialize in adding a romantic ambience to the amazing rooms. What a great way to top off an adventurous day seeing all South Africa’s extraordinary wildlife and plants.

Contact
Thanda Private Game Reserve
Between Hluhluwe & Mkuze
KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
Tel: +27 (0)11 469-5082

For more information and to start planning your trip, visit the South African Tourism website at www.southafrica.net