Excursion Thula thula game reserve - safari & lunch tour at Richards Bay

Explore the diverse landscapes and wildlife at one of the oldest private game reserves in South Africa during this thrilling, full-day safari excursion with lunch at Thula Thula.

Richards Bay, Thula Thula Game Reserve

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.15-hour drive to the Thula Thula Game Reserve, the oldest private game reserve in Kwa-Zula Natal, and former hunting ground of the legendary Zulu King Shaka. Thula Thula (‘peace and tranquillity’ in Zulu) boasts a unique diversity of landscapes, including riverine bush, savannah, and forest.

Main Lodge, Welcome Drink & Cooled Towels, Guided Game Drive

Upon arrival at Thula Thula's gate, a short transfer brings you to the main lodge. After a comfort stop, you are escorted to your awaiting, ten-seat, open-air, 4WD safari vehicle. Meet your experienced ranger/guide, receive your safety and tour instructions, then board your open-air, 4WD safari vehicle for an exhilarating, approximately two-hour game drive on the reserve.

Elephants, Buffaloes, Rhinos, Leopards, Giraffes, Zebras, Hyenas, Crocodiles, Bird Species

Thula Thula is home to a diverse African wildlife population, including the elephant, buffalo, rhinoceros, leopard, giraffe, zebra, nyala, hyenas, crocodile, kudu, wildebeest, and a spectacular variety of other indigenous species, great and small. Bird-life is prolific here with over 350 identified species, including raptors. The re-introduction of a family herd of seven elephants in August 1999 marks the historic return of these great creatures to the area for the first time in 100 years. By the beginning of 2010, the family had grown to a herd of 20 elephants.

Guided Walking Tour, Thula Thula Restaurant, Lunch

During the game drive, enjoy a unique opportunity to explore the beautiful landscape. The qualified rangers plan a specific route according to the fauna and flora in which your group is most interested.  Upon returning to the lodge, proceed for a lovely lunch at the Thula Thula restaurant that includes a selection of local specialities. After lunch and an unforgettable day, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1 hour 30 minutes drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Richards Bay, Thula Thula Game Reserve, Game Drive, Elephants, Buffaloes, Rhinos, Leopards, Giraffes, Zebras, Hyenas, Crocodiles, Bird Species, Rhinos, Buffaloes, Giraffes, Zebras, Impalas, Lions, Lunch at the Lodge

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of off-road driving and a minimal amount of walking for approximately 109 yards (about 100 metres), at times over uneven, bumpy, gravel, and natural surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and open-air, 4WD safari vehicles, and several steps at the Thula Thula Game Reserve. The ride may be rough at times, and guests will experience bumpy, jerking motions. This tour is recommended for active guests in good physical condition. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guests with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, cotton safari wear (long-and-short-sleeved shirts and pants) with flat, sturdy, and closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, a light, weatherproof jacket, bottled water, and local currency or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Guests must be at least six years old to participate on this tour; minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Guests are not permitted to speak loudly, or stand up on the game drive vehicles, as this disturbs the animals. Smoking is not permitted during the game drives. No food may be taken into the reserve on the open-air, 4WD safari vehicles. Guests are advised not to wear jewellery on this excursion. The open-air, 4WD safari vehicles utilised on this tour are not covered, and guests are therefore exposed to the elements. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, wildlife and bird sightings are not guaranteed. Due to the prevailing weather conditions and movement of dangerous wildlife on the game drives, the tour sequence, timings, and itinerary are subject to change by the lodge management without prior notice. The driving time between the pier and sites visited is approximately 1.15-1.30 hours in each direction. A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Guests are required to fill out an indemnity form to participate in this activity, indicating passport or National ID number.