When looking to take a truly unforgettable adventure, going on an awe-inspiring safari through the heart of the wild is what you want to do. Experience the sights of incredible animals in their natural habitat, a simply stunning surrounding landscape and be immersed in local culture.
These were my thoughts as I embarked on a solo adventure trip to Rhino Ridge in KwaZulu-Natal – a province of South Africa that was created in 1994 when the government merged the Zulu Bantustan of KwaZulu (“Place of the Zulu” in Zulu) and Natal Province. It is a coastal province known for its beaches, mountains and savannah populated by big game.
The safari destination Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, in the northeast, is home to black and white rhinos, lions and giraffes. Cultural villages around the town of Eshowe showcase the traditions of the indigenous Zulu people. Nowhere else in the world will you find such a unique fusion of raw natural beauty, modern sophistication, cultural diversity and pulsating energy – all in the most breath-taking natural setting.
My journey started from Johannesburg, with a quick flight to King Shaka International Airport in Durban where I picked up a rental car for a three-hour thirty minutes’ drive to Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park via the Memorial Gate entrance.
On my way, I passed through several villages. Every moment feels like a nature documentary. Cruising through majestic locations, soaking up the breath-taking scenery, I was so excited and the promise of wildlife spotting had me looking forward to a great experience.
There is something about going on a safari that makes you forget all your sorrows and feel as if you had drunk half a bottle of champagne — bubbling over with heartfelt gratitude for being alive.
Upon arrival, I was warmly welcomed by Nomvelo, whose bright smile set the tone for a fantastic stay. I was served a cup of bush coffee, and Nomvelo gave me a quick tour of the lodge. She mentioned that there are 18 rooms in total – eight Luxury Bush Villas, two Honeymoon Villas, eight safari rooms. And in order to maximise the view & ensure guests’ privacy, some rooms are as far as 200 metres away from the main lodge facility.
Temperature ranges from 15°c – 35°c between October and April (my time of visit), days are hot & humid with occasional afternoon & evening thunderstorms, and from 11°c – 24°c between May and September – sunny days with cool mornings and evenings.
For clothing, get yourself a comfortable, casual, cool, cotton bush wear of preferably neutral colours/bush tones. Hats, scarves, warm jacket/windbreaker year round, swimwear & sandals, comfortable sturdy walking shoes, smart casual wear for dinner, and don’t forget your sunscreen and binoculars.
After the quick tour, I was settled into my luxury villa and it was magnificent! The villa is modern and tastefully furnished with its own swimming pool. This will be my abode for the next two nights and I love it!
As the evening grew chilly, Khumalo assisted me in making a fire in my room, which added to the warmth and ambiance of my stay. This small gesture showcased the staff’s willingness to go above and beyond to ensure guest’s comfort.
I dressed down, unpacked my bags, took a nice warm bath, settled next to the cozy fireplace and curled up to a book sipping a glass of wine. I feel so refreshed and can’t even feel the long hours of drive. About an hour later, it was time for dinner and I was notified that my first game drive will be early the next morning.
After a sumptuous three-course dinner, I retired to bed and slept like a baby! The next day awaits.
Day 2:
I jumped out of bed at 6am ready for my very first game drive. The call of the wild is impossible to resist. And as they say, the best kind of therapy is a safari. Thirty minutes later, and after a quick morning wash, Zwane knocked on my door to fetch me for the drive.
An early morning bush coffee and snacks set the tone for our drive, joined by fellow guests from the lodge. Our guide, Vusi, offered a brief introduction and tempered our expectations with his calm, knowledgeable presence
At Rhino Ridge Safari lodge, guests are pampered with two game drives daily. Other activities at the lodge include guided game walks, bird watching and community tours. Guests can expect to see wild animals like White Rhinoceros, African Elephant, Impala, Kudu, Leopard, African Lion, Plains Zebra, Warthog, African Buffalo, African Wild Dog, Black Rhinoceros, Wildebeest, African Cheetah, Giraffe, Hippopotamus and others.
Vusi mentioned that safari drives are not only about seeing wild animals, but learning more about the amazing ecosystems and creatures great and small. He is very knowledgeable and imparted a wealth of fascinating information, bringing us closer to the natural environment.
Three hours later, we were back at the lodge and ready for breakfast. I went quickly to my villa to freshen up and back in no time to the breakfast table. The breakfast was a three-course meal. I tried out the Rhino Ridge Ranger Breakfast that consists of eggs, bacon, chicken sausage, grilled tomato and sauté mushrooms.
The waiters at Rhino Ridge were exceptional, displaying great patience and attentiveness throughout my stay. Their friendly demeanour made me feel at home, and I appreciated the effort they put into ensuring that my needs were met.
Hours later after noon and after a light lunch, we were whisked away again on a game drive. The evening drive was even more insightful. Vusi provided lots of great context during every sighting and showed us how to identify the female Zebras, Rhinos and Giraffes. He was attentive to our interests, and tailored the drives towards what we were keen on – a wide array of wildlife. We explored more of the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park and it was indeed a memorable encounter.
Day 3:
After the morning drive, I was ready for breakfast and ready to check out afterwards.
My two-night stay at Rhino Ridge was a great experience. However, one aspect that fell short of my expectations was the lack of Wi-Fi in the villas. In today’s digital age, reliable internet access is essential, and its absence was noticeable. I hope that Rhino Ridge will consider installing Wi-Fi in all rooms/villas to enhance the overall guest experience.
Despite this, I did have some great interactions with the staff. The manager, Khumalo, and Zwane were particularly welcoming and helpful. One suggestion for improvement would be to include drinks and snacks in the booking package. Given the distance from shopping centres, it would be convenient for guests to have these essentials already included in their rates.
Departing from the lodge felt like returning to a mother’s embrace after wandering far. As I journeyed, the landscapes grew more familiar, then slowly gave way to a new, untouched beauty. Nothing compares to the serenity of the African plains and in the vastness of Africa, we find our own vastness.
Each turn brought me closer to my roots—those of the earth and the heart—as I breathed in the scent of the land and found myself amidst rolling farmlands. I marvelled at the expansive fields, whispering to one another, and the quiet marvels of the land spoke to my soul.
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