Named after the local chiefs who contributed their land, Mthembu Lodge will open its doors in October 2018 and Biyela Lodge will be ready to welcome guests from January 2019.

The Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park is the oldest proclaimed protected Game Reserve area in South Africa, dating back to 1895. Stretching over 96,000 hectares, it is located approximately 190km (2.5 hours) north of Durban.  The reserve is known for its rich wildlife and conservation efforts. The uMfolozi Big Five Reserve will be on the south-western border of the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, overlooking the wilderness area.

Hluhluwe iMfolozi is well known for its conservation efforts and more notably, ‘Operation Rhino’ spearheaded by Dr Ian Player.  Breeding groups of rhino were captured and relocated to ensure their long term survival.  Viable populations went from approximately 650 white rhinos in 1960 to approximately 18 800 in 2010.

Every villa is designed to offer ultimate privacy and unparalleled views over the iMfolozi River and the surrounding savannas.  Game drives and walks on the 6000 hectares uMfolozi Big 5 Reserve will be exclusively for guests staying on the reserve. uMfolozi guests will also have the added benefit of game drives and walking safaris within the main reserve.

Biyela Lodge, nestled on a spectacular bend on the White iMfolozi River, will have 12 luxurious 1-bedroom Private Villas each with private pool, and two 2-bedroom Family Villas, sleeping 32 guests in total. Spa and Gym facilities will also be on offer.

Mthembu Lodge, with panoramic views of the water and thickets, will comprise of 7 luxurious 1-bedroom Private Villas and two 2-bedroom Family Villas, sleeping a total of 22 guests.

These first time features can be found in the Thompsons Africa brochure and Online Tariff http://console.virtualpaper.com/thompsons-africa/south-africa-2019/#100/

So looking forward to these new additions to the Kwazulu Natal region!