Michelle arranged an incredible KwaZulu Natal safari for her guests. It was a varied choice of camps and lodges, which provided a diverse wildlife experience. Walt and Sharon stayed at Rhino Ridge in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park, Makakatana on the banks of Lake St. Lucia within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and the Thanda Tent Camp in KwaZulu Natal.
Here is their feedback :
Hi Michelle….back from our trip and all had a great time. Game viewing not as strong as Sabi Sands by a long shoot but still fun. We really liked all three lodges. As usual, the shuttles were right on time, in fact always waiting for us at the airport and lodges.
A few comments by location that you might find helpful.
Rhino Ridge…
Great room, great common area and excellent food. The dinner in the boma was good, sand was very loose so chairs sank in…no biggie. Staff excellent and game drives very good even if no off rooding allowed. Our ranger, Thebaca, ( hope I spelled correctly) was very good but also very soft spoken. Great animals except no cats at all were seen. The area is very large and limited by road only viewing.
Makakatana….
Again, great facility, great folks, excellent food, and super service. The staff actually learned our names even though we were there only 3 nights! Very limited game, no predators present in their area so prey stock seemed out of balance. Loved the included drinks!
River trip was great and boat host Warwick was excellent. Lots of hippos! The beach trip is a negative. Nothing really to do once there and beach access was terrible. A large hill of sand to both go down and up (see photo) really not suitable for most folks. Should be a full disclosures about it. We all felt not a good experience, except to say we touched the Indian Ocean.
Thanda Tent Camp…
Super! The tents were great, excellent food, loved the included drinks. Great game viewing despite its limited area. Our ranger, Vincent, and tracker, Derrick, were some of the best we have had. Great off-road driving for that up-close experience we are used to. The on-site photographer was great and Jain, Mike and I learned a lot from his free 2+ hour session. Highly recommend that to all interested in photography, despite their skill level. Tip…..tent 13 has great views but is a LONG uphill climb; staff said a 1/3 mile hike! We spent one night there then changed to a much closer tent….too old for it I am afraid!
Thanks for all your help in planning this trip. All of the Africa first timers are hooked. I just wish it did not take 24 hours of flights, excluding layovers, to get there! Phots are yours to use as you wish.
Please let me know of any questions and thank you again……Walt and Sharon
