​Established in 1895, the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is the oldest game reserve in Africa. Although it is not as well known as the Kruger National Park further north, it is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful parks in the country. Due to its successful rhino conservation program the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is now home to the largest and most dense white rhino population in the world. Therefore white rhino sightings are almost guaranteed, we often lose count of the number we see during a day tour. Visitors to the park can admire the famous Big 5 as well as find a wide variety of other animals. The park is home to cheetah, African wild dog, hyena, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe and many species of antelope. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi can roughly be divided into two parts; the north Hluhluwe section, which is more densely forested, and the southern iMfolozi section where people can experience a slightly drier and more open African savannah. 

Mpila Camp

Mpila Camp is located in the middle of the iMfolozi section of the park. The open grounds give people an impressive view of the savannah and surroundings. Apart from an electrified elephant wire, the camp is not fenced. Wild animals can walk through the camp, so you can expect visits from hyenas when you braai (BBQ) at night! The electricity is turned off at ten pm, which results in a total blackout for the entire camp. This creates a special bush atmosphere at Mpila Camp and allows for some excellent stargazing. The accommodation options are safari tents or basic three star quality chalets. The accommodations are all self-catering, with no restaurant on site. Guided game drives and guided walks can be booked from the camp, but are for guest’s own account.  Children of all ages are welcome at Mpila Camp; with a small children’s play area within the camp. As the camp is unfenced, adults must keep a close eye on children.

Hilltop Camp

Hilltop Camp is situated in the northern Hluhluwe part of the reserve. As the name suggests this accommodation is placed on the top of a hill. As a result visitors are spoilt with stunning views of the entire reserve and on clear days views can be extend all the way to lake St. Lucia and the Indian Ocean. Due to its location guests can also enjoy a cool breeze during the summer. Hilltop camp provides both self-catering and non self-catering units. There is a restaurant on the premise for the guests, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests can also chose to braai (BBQ) at their units. The camp has a small souvenir shop, which sells an array of gifts, and also some limited food supplies for self-catering guests. Hilltop camp has a swimming pool that guests can use to cool off in between game drives. Hilltop camp is fully fenced, so apart from monkeys, few animals will be seen in the grounds. Guided game drives and guided walks can be booked from the camp, but are for guest’s own account. Children of all ages are welcome at the camp. 

Nselweni Bush Lodge

Nselweni Bush Lodge is the perfect place for travellers to unwind and relax in idyllic bush surrounds. The camp consists of eight two bed self-catering units. The chalets are located on the bank of the Black iMfolozi River. Guests can watch animals from the comfort of the main deck as they come to quench their thirst at the river. Guided game drives and guided walks can be booked at Mpila Camp, but are for guest’s own account. Nselweni Bush Lodge offers more modern accommodation than the other bush lodges. However, the other bush lodges offer a cook and safari guide included in the rate, where as at Nselweni you have to cook yourself, and have to book activities separately. Children of all ages are welcome at Nselweni Bush Lodge. 

Private bush lodges (Munywaneni, Muntulu, Masinda, Hlathikhulu and Gqoyeni)

Munywaneni, Muntulu, Masinda, Hlathikhulu and Gqoyeni bush lodges are available to groups of six to eights guests. These lodges can be found throughout the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park. These lodges are situated in the middle of the wilderness with only the bare necessities available. Although guests are accommodated in reed chalets, each with en-suite bathroom and real beds, these lodges are best appreciated by travellers who are used to camping in the outdoors. The lodges have a rustic charm and allow you closer to nature than the larger camps. Due to the remote locations guests are required to take their own food and drinks. However there is a cook available at the lodges that can make a delicious meal with the ingredients you take. A private armed game ranger, who can take you on walking safaris throughout the beautiful surroundings is stationed each lodge. The huts are not fenced so prepare to be in close contact with the animals living in the vicinity, and hear lions roar whilst sitting by the campfire. Children of all ages are welcome at the bush lodges, but children under 13 are not allowed to join the guided walks. 

Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge

Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge is the most luxurious and comfortable way of spending time in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park. With its outdoor swimming pool with an unbelievable view, spa treatments and spacious sundeck the lodge will cater to guests every need. Each room is positioned ideally so guests can enjoy stunning views of the surroundings. All these facilities have earned the Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge a 4-star rating. The family suites are perfect for families traveling with children. There are also two honeymoon suites available, which have private plunge pools. All meals are included for guests during their stay. Two guided game drives a day are also included in a stay here.  Children of all ages are welcome at the lodge. Children under 3 are not able to join game drives unless a private game drive is booked at an additional cost. Children between the ages of 3 - 6 are accommodated on a kiddie’s game drive later in the day. 
Click here to See tours that feature Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park
Do you want to visit Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park but prefer something different to the options above? Get in touch and we'll happily design your Tailor Made tour!