True Spirit of Africa
THIS is one of Africa's oldest conservation areas and with its wooded savanna, floodplains and valleys, is sanctuary to the largest concentration of white and black rhino on the sub-continent. Besides the allure of the Big Five, the park is steeped in the history of the Zulu nation and epitomizes the true spirit of Africa.
Comfortable accommodation is provided in Hilltop Camp, a well-managed camp of thatched rondavels (huts) and a good restaurant. Those seeking a closer encounter with nature may prefer one of the bush lodges - small and remote, with their own Zulu chef, although one must supply one's own food and beverages.
The once-endangered white rhino is now a common sight, as are buffalo, nyala, impala, kudu, wildebeest, zebra and giraffe. Black rhino are more elusive as they prefer to browse the dense bushlands, but twitchers can have a field day sighting some of the 370 species which inhabit the park.
There are lovely picnic spots in the reserve and some short trails where one experience the thrill of walking through the African bush, with its myriad of sounds, sights and scents.
