Any time is the right time to visit Makongo Hills, where few thrills can beat the encounter with Africa’s Big 5, traditionally those animals who pose the greatest danger – lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard.
Our Big Five game drives offer an exclusive, intimate window into 15,000 hectares of pristine Zululand wilderness. With very few vehicles traversing the reserve at any one time, you are guaranteed a highly personalized safari, free from crowds or queuing.
Central to this experience are our exceptionally knowledgeable and passionate game guides. They are expert trackers and bush historians who love sharing the secrets of the reserve—from complex animal behaviours to local bird calls. Together with your guide, you will track the iconic lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo across diverse habitats, enjoying unhurried, front-row viewings.
This vast landscape gives the animals true freedom to roam, making every encounter authentic and thrilling. We ensure your safari remains private, quiet and deeply connected to nature, guided by experts who bring the African bush to life.
Helpful Tips For Your Stay:
Morning drives start chilly, and evening drives cool down quickly after sunset. Neutral-coloured layers (khaki, green, or grey) are ideal.
A wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
To ensure you stay comfortable and fully capture every moment on your game drive.
Essential footwear to keep you comfortable throughout your safari experience.
A lightweight, windproof jacket provides protection against the breeze in our open 4x4 vehicles.
Out of respect for fellow guests and the wildlife, we kindly request that all cell phones be switched off or turned to completely silent during game drives.
Tipping is not included in your lodge bill and is also not expected, but is a lovely way to show your appreciation for the care and service you receive. Our staff and guides are always grateful for tips, whether in local or foreign currency. There’s no set amount - simply give what feels right to you. If you’d like guidance, our friendly team will be happy to help.
The variety of habitats – from open grassland and rolling savannah to acacia woodland, riverine thicket, sand forest and rocky riverine cliffs – provides food, shelter and breeding habitat for an extraordinary range of birdlife.
For the keen birder, the reserve offers the pleasure of discovering both familiar African species and some of the more elusive and sought-after birds of northern Zululand. Water-loving species gather around the dams, pans and watercourses, while kingfishers, herons and bee-eaters can be seen along the water’s edge.
Open grasslands provide hunting and foraging grounds for lapwings, cranes, longclaws (also known as Geelkeelkalkoentjie) and Secretary Birds, while the woodland and thickets hold an abundance of smaller birds, including sunbirds, bulbuls, woodpeckers, flycatchers and seed-eaters. The cliffs and larger trees provide important nesting and roosting sites for raptors and other large species
Make your stay your own with a selection of special extras designed to add
a little more comfort, romance, adventure or authentic bush experience.
Available at an additional cost, these experiences must be pre-booked before arrival and are subject to availability.
Mid-morning game drive enjoy a breakfast in the heart of the bush, stopping beside a scenic dam for a relaxed picnic spread. Enjoy fresh fruit, pastries, eggs and breakfast favourites while taking in the sights and sounds of the reserve around you.
Make breakfast an experience of its own. Your private chef prepares a delicious breakfast in the bush and serves it at your table overlooking a scenic viewpoint, with nothing but the wilderness around you.
Spend a leisurely afternoon beside the dam, fishing for Bass and Tilapia and enjoying a packed lunch in the bush. Bring your own rod or hire one from the lodge for the day—a peaceful alternative between game drives.
Enjoy a relaxed picnic for two in the heart of the reserve, choosing between the tranquillity of our Bird Hide or the rustic charm of the Tamboti Forest Bushcamp. Your picnic basket can include charcuterie, cheese or fresh fruit, accompanied by sparkling wine. Speak to our Lodge Manager when booking to select your preferred setting and menu.
Experience the energy and traditions of Zulu culture through an evening of dancing and music, followed by an interactive traditional beer ceremony. Your contribution goes directly to the local dance troop, helping support their community needs.
