This 14-night KwaZulu-Natal Adventure self-drive safari is a richly layered journey through one of South Africa’s most diverse regions. It combines some of the major highlights: walking or scenic touring in the dramatic mountain scenery of the Drakensberg, exploring the historic battlefields, game-viewing on a Big Five safari, and unspoilt Indian Ocean coastline including Isimangaliso.
This itinerary is particularly rewarding during South Africa’s winter and spring months, when the climate is warm, sunny and dry. Accommodation is carefully selected in the Premier to Luxury category, ensuring character, and a strong sense of place.
For those who prefer not to self-drive, this trip can also be arranged with seamless private transfers.
At a Glance – KwaZulu Natal Adventure Self-Drive – 14 nights
- On arrival, you collect from Group D rental and enjoy an overnight stay at Teremok Lodge or Ocean Vista, Bed & Breakfast
- 3 nights Drakensberg Mountains, The Cavern Hotel, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast
- 2 nights Natal Battlefields, Fugitives Drift Guesthouse (or Upgrade to the Lodge for an extra supplement), Full Board and including Two Battlefield Tours
- 3 nights on Safari at Rhino Sands Lodge, Fully Inclusive. Or upgrade to Phinda Zuka Lodge,
- 3 nights on the beach in Coastal Maputaland, 3 nights Thonga Beach Lodge, Full Board & Selected Activities
- Finally near the Isimangaliso Wetlands Reserve, 2 nights Serene Estate, Bed & Breakfast. Or upgrade to Makakatana Bay Lodge Full Board & Activities.
- Return your rental car to Durban airport for homeward flight.
Safari Description
Your journey begins just north of Durban in Umhlanga, where ocean views and a relaxed coastal atmosphere offer the perfect introduction. From here, travel inland to the soaring peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains, where days unfold at your own pace. Enjoy invigorating hikes or gentle walks through lush wooded valleys and beside clear mountain streams.
Continue to the evocative Natal Battlefields, where expert-led tours bring to life the stories of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. Then you enjoy a classic safari experience with three nights at an intimate private game lodge, where guided game drives and bush experiences reveal Africa’s iconic wildlife.
From the bush, you head to the shores of Maputaland for barefoot luxury on a pristine beach. Here, the rhythm slows; with ocean swims, coastal walks, and nature-based activities in a remarkably untouched setting.
Your final stop is at St Lucia near the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a World Heritage Site, offering a fascinating blend of lake ecosystems, wildlife, birding, and coastal wilderness.
Personalise to Suit You
This sample itinerary is designed as inspiration for a fully tailor-made trip. Accommodation can be upgraded, adjusted, or replaced entirely to reflect your travel style and available nights. You may wish to spend longer on safari, include additional cultural experiences, or skip a region. Whether self-driving or opting for private transfers, it can be refined to create a seamless, personalised safari experience.
Good to Know
- Best between April and October for optimal weather and safari conditions
- Self-drive is straightforward, with good roads and clear routing
- Private transfer option available for a more relaxed, chauffeur-driven experience
- We show a price below (‘With Transfers) assuming only 2 people travelling. But contact us if you are a party of four or more for a personalized quote.
- Luxury accommodation upgrades available at key stops
