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South Africa safari
Zululand & The Elephant Coast
Ancient battlefields and wild shores merge to create a multi-faceted masterpiece.
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Zululand & The Elephant Coast Safari Trips & Tours

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About Zululand & The Elephant Coast

Stretching along South Africa's northeastern frontier, where KwaZulu-Natal flirts with Mozambique, this untamed corner of the country is nature's own variety show. Here, the historical heartland of the Zulu nation meets Africa's very first World Heritage Site, creating a mesmerizing blend of culture, conservation, and raw wilderness. From the rolling hills where ancient kings once ruled to the pristine beaches where turtles still nest, this region promises unique diversity. The landscape transforms from bushveld to coastal forest, from freshwater lakes to marine reserves, each transition bringing its own cast of characters. Historic battlefields share space with modern conservation success stories, while traditional kraals dot hillsides near sophisticated eco-lodges. The iSimangaliso Wetland Park anchors the coastal region with its intricate network of lakes and marine reserves, while inland, reserves like Hluhluwe-iMfolozi guard precious populations of rhino and elephant. This is where whale sharks cruise past coral reefs, hippos wallow in Africa's largest estuary, and the Big Five roam through reclaimed farmland turned wilderness paradise.

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Why you'll love it

Few places on Earth offer such a perfect blend of safari, sealife and history. Whether you're watching whales breach from coastal dunes, tracking rhinos amidst ancient woodland or learning about earth-shaking battles, each day brings a new adventure.


Off the beaten track

Take a guided walk through the coastal forests of Kosi Bay, where local Thonga people still practice their centuries-old fish-trapping traditions in crystal-clear lakes. Plan a visit during summer to witness nocturnal turtle tours, where loggerhead and leatherback turtles lumber up beaches to lay eggs as they've done for millennia (but be prepared for the heat).


Something to think about

While the region offers year-round attractions, each season brings its own highlights – whale watching peaks from June to November, and turtle nesting from November to March. Also, a 4x4 is essential for exploring many areas, especially the coastal sections.

When to go

March - October

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Wildlife in Zululand & The Elephant Coast

Elephant
Abundant
Giraffe
Abundant
Hippo
Abundant
Black Rhino
Rare
White Rhino
Abundant
Lion
Occasional
Cheetah
Occasional
Leopard
Rare
Hyena
Rare
Wildebeest
Abundant
Buffalo
Occasional
Zebra
Abundant
Warthog
Abundant
Wild Dog
Occasional
Meerkat
None

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What our guests are saying

4.9 / 5
Based on 940 reviews
Hannah
Mar 2025 • 9 nights in South Africa
Everything went super smoothly and everyone was very helpful along the way!
Susan
Feb 2025 • 16 nights in Tanzania and Kenya
Annie was our travel consultant and she was excellent! She answered all questions in a timely manner and provided... Read more
Yuet
Feb 2025 • 6 nights in Tanzania
From her first email, Joana treated us as family. She asked thoughtful questions and offered responsive suggestions.... Read more
Guest
Feb 2025 • 11 nights in Tanzania
Jenna was great handling the lodging, and Bekim from Exito travel was great handling the flights. I would use... Read more
Ana
Feb 2025 • 12 nights in Tanzania
I mentioned this on the previous page.
Guest
Feb 2025 • 9 nights in Kenya
Annie Irankunda went to all lenghts and further to make my trip to Kenya lovely. She helped with all the things I... Read more
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