Hluhluwe-Umfolozi GR Sightings

Although we’ve seen lots of game in this reserve, it’s not easy to spot it. Because of the sloping landscape and the massive vegetation it can be quite hard to find animals. It happened to us that we drove around for hours, and that we spotted just some gnus, nyalas, warthogs and a “lost” giraffe. The better the feeling of spotting a special specimen….at last.

On beforehand, we were informed that the chance of spotting cats were fairly little. However, against all expectations we had 2 lion spots (8 lions in total) within just 4 days.

Rare

 

Good

 

Poor

 

Good

 

Good

 

Good

 

Poor

 

Good

 

Interesting links

stop rhino poaching save the rhino programme in Hluhluwe-Umfolozi

Thoughts about Hluhluwe-Umfolozi GR

Having been founded by the end of the 19th centrury, Hluhluwe-Umfolozi GR is the oldest and biggest reserve in the province of Kwa Zulu Natal. One of the main goals of the reserve was protecting the rhino, which number had decreased dramatically because of hunting.

Memorial Gate is located in the nort east part of the reserve. From there, through the hills, a long tarmac road leads to Umfolozi in the south. From there, it makes its way through Mpila Camp where the quality of the tarmac deteriorates, although it’s still driveable with a normal car. This tarmac main road has got numerous exits, but those side roads are not paved. With some exceptions those roads are (well) accessible.

This reserve is frequently included in the programmes of group travels, but please take due note of the fact that safari trucks (the so-called overlanders) do not leave the tarmac roads, which means that you will miss the most beautiful parts of the reserve. Hopefully, your travel organization will offer alternative safaris in jeeps.