Babanango Game Reserve is Conveniently Located Close to the Coast for the Perfect Holiday Mix
South Africa’s stunning KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) region is a popular holiday destination for locals and tourists alike, offering beach, bush, and mountain getaways. Visitors are often torn between spending time in the warm waters of our province’s coastline, or heading to the bush for a big five safari. Fortunately at Babanango Game Reserve, our Big 5 retreat in Zululand, you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Conveniently located near the beach, while nestled in the heart of the bush, this is the ultimate bush lodge destination.
Why Is Babanango The Ideal Bush And Beach Escape?
We are located close to several great KZN coastal locations so you can combine beach and bush. The entire KZN coastline – from the Wild Coast in the south to Cape Vidal in the north – has some of the best swimming, snorkelling, and diving beaches in the world, ideal for a family-friendly vacation.
If you’re flying into Durban’s King Shaka International Airport, we’re just a three-hour drive north. This means you can stay over and enjoy a seaside holiday at Durban, or head north to Ballito and uMhlanga, two popular tourist destinations, before coming to Babanango. If you’re driving from Joburg, you can stop at any of these – and more – top beaches for some seaside fun, before continuing onto the bush for tranquil wilderness.
We’re also just over two hours away from Mtunzini, an exquisite coastal village with an expansive beach and mangroves. This is a great spot for beach walks, swimming, water sports, and hunting for crabs in the unique mangroves. And, further north, just over three hours from us is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a natural jewel within KZN with Cape Vidal Beach a top swimming and fishing destination.
Luxury Lodges For Every Type Of Traveller
Once you arrive, we have a number of fantastic lodges designed to cater to your different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for luxury, romance, family fun, or a comfortably rustic experience, we have something for you.
Madwaleni River Lodge
Type: 5-star Luxury Lodge
Accommodates: 24 people
This 5-star lodge has elegant suites that combine comfort and luxury, with world-class service and cuisine throughout your stay. There are seven exquisite tents, each a haven of opulence featuring its own private heated plunge pool. This high-end, unfenced lodge overlooks the White Umfolozi River, so you’re sure to have incredible wildlife sightings.
Zulu Rock Lodge
Type: 4-star Luxury Lodge
Accommodates: 16 people
Nestled atop a hill, Zulu Rock Lodge provides panoramic views of the reserve. It’s designed for couples seeking a romantic escape, or families wanting some quiet time together. You can look forward to beautifully decorated rooms with private decks, and intimate dining experiences. When you’re not out on safari, rejuvenate at our pool, with panoramic valley vistas as the backdrop. The serene atmosphere and stunning scenery make it a perfect destination for honeymooners or those celebrating special occasions.
Valley Lodge
Type: Luxury Family Lodge
Accommodates: 18 people
Valley Lodge is the go-to choice for families. With spacious accommodation, a swimming pool, and beautiful open space for kids too, our family Lodge will ensure parents and children have an unforgettable experience. You can enjoy guided nature walks, family safaris, swimming in the pool, boma fires, and even the battlefield and coppermine tours – there’s activities for all ages.
Matatane Camp
Type: Rustic charm for groups in self-catering chalets and safari tents
If you’re looking to get back into nature in a more laid-back setting, then Matatane Camp is ideal. It’s great for families or groups looking for a fun, self-catered holiday in the bush. There are so many great activities to be enjoyed at this camp, including hiking trails, an obstacle course, zip line, and great historical day tours.
Bush Activities And Experiences
Beyond our incredible accommodation offerings, we offer a variety of activities that connect you with the heritage and natural beauty of the African bush. Some of the family-friendly bush adventures on offer include:
- Game Drives: Enjoy a thrilling game drive as you try to find the Big Five, as well as the many rare animal sightings found at Babanango.
- Guided Walks: Our experienced guides will lead you as you explore our reserve on foot, giving you the chance to see the smaller wonders of the bush, up close.
- Bird Watching: With over 300 bird species, we’re an absolute haven for bird enthusiasts.
- Bug Walks for Kids: If you have curious youngsters, they will love hunting for bugs in the African bush, with nature up close.
- Star Gazing: There’s nothing quite like the sparkling African night sky which can be enjoyed on a night drive.
- Battlefield Tours: History buffs will love this full-day trip to Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift battlefields where a knowledgeable guide will share details about these pivotal battles.
- Zipline Adventures: At Matatane Camp you can experience the thrill of ziplining over the African bush!
- Coppermine Tour: Just 10 minutes from Valley Lodge is this unique mine shaft adventure, which includes viewing of the leafnose bat colony residing here.
- Beach Trips: Our proximity to the KZN coastline means you can easily enjoy activities such as surfing, snorkelling, diving, or simply relaxing on the beach before or after your bush adventure.
Plan Your Dream Holiday: Beach, Bush, And Beyond
If you’re looking for a fun beach and bush holiday, contact our reservations team to help you with your planning. We are ideally located for visitors flying into or driving through Durban, with top-class beaches found along this route. Whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, a family getaway, or a much-needed retreat, we have the accommodations and activities to meet your needs.
Ready to plan your perfect getaway? Contact us today to book your stay!
