Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Big 5 Safari from Durban
Full-Day Guided Safari | Small Groups | Top-Rated Experience
Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve - 1 Day Safari from Durban
Experience a full-day Big 5 safari in one of Africa’s most iconic game reserve, just 2.5 hours from Durban. Guided by experienced professionals, this is one of the best safari tours near Durban.
From R2,850 per person
(Based on 2 guests sharing)
Solo traveller: R4,950
What you get
✔ Full-day Big 5 safari in Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park
✔ Experienced, knowledgeable safari guide
✔ Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
✔ Park entrance fees included
✔ Pick-up & drop-off from Durban
Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Safari from Durban – Overview
Experience a full-day “Big 5″ safari in one of Africa’s most iconic game reserves, just 2.5 hours from Durban. Guided by experienced professionals, this is one of the best safari tours near Durban.
Experience the thrill of a true African safari on a full-day adventure to Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, home to the iconic Big Five. This expertly guided safari by Tim Brown Tours offers one of the best opportunities to encounter Africa’s most famous wildlife just a short drive from Durban.
Located approximately 2.5 hours from Durban, Hluhluwe–iMfolozi is the oldest proclaimed nature reserve in Africa and boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife and landscapes. This world-renowned park is home to lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo, as well as a rich variety of other species thriving in their natural habitat.
Picture yourself watching a lion resting in the shade, a herd of elephants moving gracefully through the bush, or even the rare sight of a leopard on the hunt. Every safari is unique, offering unforgettable moments and real connections with the wild.
Our one-day safari is fully guided by experienced and qualified professionals, ensuring both your safety and the best possible wildlife sightings. Convenient departures are available from Durban and Richards Bay, making this an accessible and must-do experience during your stay in KwaZulu-Natal.
Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park is also a malaria-free area, making it a popular and safe choice for travellers.
Book your Hluhluwe–iMfolozi 1 Day Safari today and discover why this is considered one of the best things to do in Durban.
Still deciding? Take a look at our TripAdvisor reviews and see what past guests have to say about their experience with Tim Brown Tours.
Why You’ll Love This Safari
✓ Opportunity to see Africa’s Big Five in their natural habitat
✓ Visit the oldest protected reserve in Africa (established in 1895)
✓ Enjoy a safe, guided experience with knowledgeable local experts
✓ Experience the raw beauty and unpredictability of the African bush
Safari Itinerary – Hluhluwe–iMfolozi 1 Day Safari from Durban
06:00 AM – Pick-Up from Durban
Your day begins with an early morning pick-up from your accommodation in Durban.
We offer convenient pick-up and drop-off within Durban. If you are staying outside the city, please contact us — we are happy to assist, although a small additional fee may apply depending on your location.
Enjoy a comfortable 2.5 to 3-hour drive to Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park in one of our well-maintained vehicles (Toyota Fortuner, Toyota Quantum, or VW Kombi — subject to availability).
Your experienced guide will share insights about the region along the way, and you’re encouraged to ask questions to make the most of your safari experience.
09:30 AM – Arrival & Game Drive Begins
On arrival at Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, your guide will handle all entry formalities before beginning your safari adventure.
You’ll enjoy a guided game drive of approximately 3.5 hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, giving you the opportunity to spot the Big 5 and a wide range of other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Hilltop Camp Stop (Time Dependent)
We make our way towards Hilltop Camp, where you’ll have the chance to:
- Stretch your legs
- Take in breathtaking views over the reserve
- Check the wildlife sightings board
- Capture incredible photos
If time allows, we may stop for lunch at Hilltop Camp (own account).
01:00 PM – Continue Safari Experience
After the break, we continue with a relaxed game drive as we make our way toward the park exit.
This is often a great time for additional sightings — every moment in the bush offers something unique.
03:30 PM – Depart for Durban
After an unforgettable day in the African bush, we begin our return journey to Durban.
06:30 PM – Drop-Off
You will be dropped off at your accommodation in Durban.
(Times are approximate and may vary depending on wildlife sightings and park conditions.)
About Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park
Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park is the oldest proclaimed nature reserve in Africa, established in 1895 and spanning over 96,000 hectares.
The park is world-renowned for its conservation success — particularly in saving the white rhino from near extinction in the early 1900s. Today, it is home to one of the largest populations of white rhino in the world.
In addition to the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), the park boasts:
- Over 1,000 plant species
- Abundant birdlife
- A wide variety of reptiles and smaller wildlife
Every safari offers something different — from large mammals to the smaller, often overlooked creatures that play a vital role in the ecosystem.
💡 Tip: Ask your guide about the difference between black and white rhino — and see if you can spot both!
Important Information
Inclusions
- Park entrance fees
- Guided safari experience
- Transport (pick-up & drop-off)
- Qualified and experienced guide
- Bottled water (limited supply)
Exclusions
Additional Notes
- Group rates available on request
- Lunch stop is subject to time and guide discretion
- Additional water or refreshments are for your own account