Within the breathtaking KwaZulu-Natal province is Babanango Game Reserve, a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Boasting a diverse African terrain, extensive wildlife, and cultural significance, our reserve offers visitors a variety of unforgettable outdoor wilderness activities. Whether you’re an experienced explorer or a first-time visitor, we have an outdoor wilderness activity for you to enjoy! Let’s dive into the top activities you can experience at KwaZulu-Natal’s Babanango Game Reserve.
Game Drives: A Window into Wildlife
What happens on a game drive?
One of the most popular ways to view African wildlife is on a game drive. Our guide will share detailed information about the animals and plants as you take it in from the comfort of a safari vehicle. At our Big 5 game reserve, you can look out for other iconic wildlife such as the rare and elusive oribi, klipspringer, brown hyena, aardwolf, porcupine, and servals.
As a result of our massive rewilding project, more than 3 000 large mammal species have found a home back in this wilderness. Beyond merely spotting game, our guides will also share fascinating insights into animal behaviour, the reserve’s ecology, and conservation efforts.
How long is a game drive?
Typically, our game drives last about 3 hours. Morning drives often begin at sunrise, while evening drives offer the added magic of witnessing the golden sunset, with sundowners enjoyed while you take in the view.
Guided Bush Walks: Up Close with Nature
What is a walking safari?
To experience the African wilderness, we recommend booking a walking safari during your stay with us. This is a chance to explore the game reserve on foot, guided by a knowledgeable ranger. Unlike a game drive, a walking safari focuses on the smaller details of the wilderness, such as animal tracks, bird calls, and endemic plants – you will get to see a lot of the interesting elements that go unnoticed on a game drive.
How long is a walking safari?
Walking safaris usually last 3-5 hours, depending on your group’s pace and interests. This requires a minimum of 2 people and is for those aged 16 and over. It’s an ideal activity if you’re looking to connect with nature on a deeper level.
Wildlife Monitoring: Behind-the-Scenes Conservation
What is wildlife monitoring?
One of our most unique outdoor wilderness activities is wildlife monitoring. You can spend a day with our wildlife monitors tracking the endangered black rhino through the dense bush or looking out for the elusive cheetah. More than just viewing the wildlife, you have the opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation for these animals and the conservation efforts we have in place to keep them protected.
How long is wildlife monitoring?
The average wildlife monitoring activity takes 3-5 hours, depending on your group’s pace and sightings.
Battlefield Tours: Step Back in Time
What is the battlefield tour?
KwaZulu-Natal and Zululand in particular has a rich history as the location of the Zulu and Anglo-Boer wars, pivotal battles that shaped South Africa’s trajectory. As one of our guests, you can experience a historical tour of the nearby Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift battlefields where knowledgeable guides will bring history to life. The tour also includes a breathtaking panoramic view of the battlefields from the Nqutu Ridge, providing a unique perspective of the terrain that played a crucial role in the outcome of the battles.
How long is a battlefield tour?
Battlefield tours are a full day but must be booked ahead of time, weather conditions dependent.
Coppermine Tour: Unearth History
What is a Coppermine Tour?
Another unique wilderness activity that we offer on the reserve is the Coppermine Tour which is just 10 minutes from Valley Lodge. This guided tour will take you to the depths of an old mine shaft, uncovering the story of ‘fool’s gold’ and the fascinating history behind a geologist’s dreams and hardships. This mine is also home to a thriving colony of Cape Leafnose bats, making this a unique cultural and wilderness activity.
How long is a Coppermine tour?
This is a 2-hour tour suited to those 12 years and older.
Bush Lunch: Dine in the Wilderness
What is a bush lunch?
A bush lunch is a unique al fresco dining experience where you’re treated to top-notch lunch (or brunch) within the reserve itself, surrounded by sights and sounds of the wild. The lunch menu features a variety of delectable dishes, each made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This is the perfect way to break up your day of game drives or walking safaris and create unforgettable memories in the heart of the African wilderness.
Who can go on a bush lunch?
Bush lunches are suitable for individuals, couples, and families. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a unique dining experience, it’s a memorable option for all ages.
How long is a bush lunch?
Bush lunches typically last about 3 hours, giving you ample time to savour the experience and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Zipline Adventure: Thrill in the Skies
What is the Zipline Adventure at Babanango Game Reserve?
Based at Matatane Camp, the Babanango Zipline Adventure is a 5-platform zipline course that takes you through the river gorge, with views of the reserve. The longest zipline is 200 metres and it’s a must for thrill-seekers wanting a memorable extreme wilderness activity.
What is the Duration of the Babanango Zipline Adventure?
The zipline activity is 2 hours long, taking you along 5 zipline platforms.
Why Choose Babanango Game Reserve?
We offer a wide range of wilderness activities that infuse the local history, culture, and conservation elements of the Zululand region. Our reserve is set on the unique topography of the upper White Umfolozi River Valley, with an expansive wilderness area of over 20,000 hectares steeped in Zulu history and layered on geological features that date back to the beginning of time.
In an effort to ensure this remains a wildlife haven, our team has embarked on one of the largest game translocation projects in the country, reintroducing African wildlife to the ancient lands they once roamed. This landscape boasts a variety of birds, plants, insects, reptiles, and mammals..
Babanango Game Reserve also combines conservation with luxury, boasting eco-friendly accommodations, expert-guided activities, and quality cuisine. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping activities or peaceful moments in nature, the reserve offers an unforgettable wilderness experience.
