Hluhluwe - iMfolozi Game Park

                                                      Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Park (HiP):

Proclaimed as a protected area in 1895 it has become a world-renowned nature reserve in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Famous for being the oldest game reserve in Africa and a global leader in conservation, this is where the last vestiges of the Southern white & black rhino were brought back from the brink of extinction. 

The Park extends to over 96,000-hectares of which 24,000-hectares is a declared Wilderness area with access restricted to foot trails only.

In the south the iMfolozi Park, including the wilderness area, is 72,000 hectares, with Hluhluwe at 24,000 hectares, making up the balance in the North.

How did the (HIP) Get Its Name:

Hluhluwe is a Zulu Name which comes from the (umhluhluwe vine or thorny rope plant) which grows in the region.

iMfolozi, also a Zulu name, is named after the Black Umfolozi (Mfolozi eMnyama) and the White Umfolozi (Mfolozi eMhlope) which meet within the iMfolozi side of the park.

Key Attractions & Activities

Wildlife Viewing: 

The park is a top destination for viewing the “African Magnificent Eight” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, black and white rhino – the Big 5, as well as cheetah, African wild dog, and Hyena). It boasts diverse fauna & flora, located in the beautiful rolling hills of Zululand.

Game Drives: 

Visitors can enjoy open game viewer safaris conducted by concession holders and can be booked via your Pelican Collection accommodation facility. (www.pelicancollectionstlucia.co.za)

All Guided tours are undertaken by registered guides. One may also enjoy self-guided game drives in their own vehicles.

Wilderness Trials and Walks:
For a more immersive bush experience, the iMfolozi section offers world-renowned guided walking wilderness trails – either spending nights along the trail or day guided foot trails for those who have less time.

Picnic Sites & Hides: 

The park features numerous well-maintained picnic sites and hides where visitors can get out of their vehicles and observe animals gathering at waterholes.  

Location: 

The park is approximately 3 hours’ drive north of King Shaka International Airport, Durban. 

The nearest towns are Mtubatuba, 30km from the Nyalazi Gate, and St Lucia which is 54km from the Gate. Nyalazi Gate allows direct access to both the North and South sides of the park.

We welcome you to our amazing and incredibly diverse part of the world which we would love to share with you, your family & friends. 

Always a warm Zululand greeting, accompanied by unmatched hospitality. 

A lifetime of memories to be made.

Gavin Udal 

All photographs by Gavin Udal