Thanda Safari Hluhluwe Nature photoThanda Safari Hluhluwe Exterior photoThanda Safari Hluhluwe Exterior photo
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From930US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

D242 Road Off The N2, Hluhluwe, South Africa, 3960
-
Near Greater St Lucia Wetland Park
Perfect
9.2
9.3
/10
4.7
4.8
/5

Accommodations

Thanda Safari spans 14,000 hectares with four distinctive accommodation options: Thanda Safari Lodge, Villa iZulu, Thanda Tented Camp, and The Royal Thanda Club by Thanda Safari. Thanda Safari Lodge includes nine self-contained suites, each featuring a heated plunge pool and an outdoor sala overlooking the reserve. Villa iZulu offers a private retreat with five en-suite bedrooms, a dedicated staff, and a helipad for convenience.

Wildlife Experiences

Thanda Safari offers guided safari drives led by expert wildlife guides and trackers, showcasing the Big Five and a variety of African wildlife. Guests can participate in wildlife conservation efforts, including time spent with specialist rhino monitors. The reserve also provides opportunities for photographic safaris to capture stunning views of the landscape and its inhabitants.

Cultural Immersion

Guests at Thanda Safari can engage with the Zulu culture, experiencing one of the richest traditions in Africa. The hotel collaborates with local communities to offer insights into Zulu customs through various programs and events. Activities may include traditional Zulu dance performances and cultural tours within the reserve.

Wellness and Dining

Thanda Safari boasts a spa offering treatments that blend Western techniques and ancient Zulu holistic practices. Dining options include sumptuous bush breakfasts, high teas, and al fresco dinners, prepared by skilled chefs using local ingredients. The central dining area overlooks a waterhole, providing an inviting setting for guests to enjoy their meals.

Family-Friendly Amenities

Thanda Safari welcomes families, offering activities designed to engage children with nature and wildlife education. Personalized family safaris can be arranged, ensuring a tailored experience that includes child-friendly meal options and activities. The spacious accommodations accommodate families comfortably within the reserve's stunning landscapes.

Highlights

Accommodations: Four unique lodging options with private plunge pools

Wildlife: Up-close encounters with the Big Five

Cultural Immersion: Programs showcasing Zulu traditions

Wellness: Spa treatments fusing Western and Zulu practices

Dining: Local cuisine served in an open-air dining area

Must-do experiences

  • Join a guided bushwalk to spot unique flora and fauna.
  • Taste the local biltong at the nearby Hluhluwe market.
  • Visit the Zululand Cultural Museum for insights into local heritage.
  • Experience a traditional Zulu dance at a cultural village tour.
  • Take a sunset boat cruise on Lake St. Lucia for stunning views.
View all

Select your room type

Thanda Safari offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Tent
2 persons
595 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Bathtub
Suite
2 persons
2370 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Private pool
Tent Plunge Pool
2 persons
810 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Private pool
Lodge Suite
2 persons
2370 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Shower
Private pool
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Facilities

Thanda Safari offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.0/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi in public areas
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Luggage storage
  • Currency exchange

Sports & Fitness

  • Hiking

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Valet parking
  • Room service
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Outdoor dining area
  • Dinner
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Babysitting/Child services
  • Board games
  • Children's menu
  • Kids club
  • Game room

Spa & Leisure

  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Sun loungers
  • Live entertainment
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Sauna
  • Pedicure
  • Manicure
  • Waxing
  • Body scrub
  • Facial
  • Treatment room
  • Body wraps
  • Massage
  • Pool with view

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Mini-bar
  • Soundproofed rooms
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Dining table
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Washing machine
  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Parquet floor
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Dining Onsite

Onsite dining at Thanda Safari offers a delightful array of meals designed to cater to diverse tastes and preferences. With a focus on inclusivity, the restaurant emphasizes warm family-friendly settings and intimate romantic backdrops, creating spaces perfect for any occasion.
Thanda Safari Hluhluwe Restaurant photo
Thanda Safari Hluhluwe Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

International with Halal, Kosher, Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free, and Dairy-free options
Ambiance
A welcoming atmosphere suitable for families and couples, fostering memorable dining experiences with a focus on comfort and relaxation.
Key Offerings
Start the day with coffee and biscuits at sunrise followed by a delectable breakfast featuring smoked salmon omelettes, banana pancakes, and a refreshing buffet of stewed fruits, cold meats, and yoghurt drizzled with mint coulis.
Reservation
No
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Thanda Safari Location

D242 Road Off The N2, Hluhluwe, South Africa, 3960
Map view
D242 Road Off The N2, Hluhluwe, South Africa, 3960
Explore Hluhluwe
Explore the Surrounding Area
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park
10-minute drive
Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park is famed for big five wildlife and guided safaris, offering a chance for close encounters in their natural habitat.
Zulu Botanical Gardens
8-minute drive
A tranquil space showcasing indigenous plants, the gardens emphasize conservation and education with guided tours available.
Safari Excursions
10-minute drive
Guided safari tours in the nearby national park provide thrilling wildlife experiences, suitable for wildlife enthusiasts and families.
Wellness Retreats
5-minute drive
Local wellness centers offer yoga and spa experiences, focusing on relaxation and rejuvenation for guests seeking tranquility.
The Dining Room
5-minute walk
A cozy ambiance featuring local cuisine and international dishes, with favorites like bobotie and venison steak. Reservations recommended.
Kfc Hluhluwe
8-minute drive
Casual fast-food outlet known for its fried chicken and affordable meals. Ideal for families and quick bites on-the-go.
Hluhluwe Theater
10-minute drive
Family-friendly cinema showcasing the latest blockbusters in a comfortable setting, perfect for evening outings.
Local Market
5-minute drive
A vibrant market featuring hand-made crafts and local food stalls. Great for souvenirs and cultural experiences on weekends.
Getting around
City Centre
Hluhluwe28 min  ·  11.3 mi
Airports
Phinda (PZL)29 min  ·  11.9 mi
Richards Bay (RCB)169 min  ·  69.8 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-19:00
Check-out
from 06:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.
Breakfast
A continental breakfast is served and charges are applicable. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Year renovated:
2010
Number of rooms:
25
Former name
thanda private game reserve - thanda bush villas/ thanda tented camp

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Thanda Safari from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 69 verified reviews
9.4/10
Perfect
99%
Recommend
Breakfast
9.0/10
Cleanliness
9.5/10
Comfort
9.4/10
Facilities
9.0/10
Free Wi-Fi
6.7/10
Location
9.4/10
Paid Wi-Fi
6.6/10
Staff
9.6/10
Value for money
8.7/10
Guest reviews
based on 135 reviews
9.2/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About Thanda Safari
What are the check-in and check-out times at Thanda Safari?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is at 11:00.
What is the distance from Thanda Safari to Phinda Airport?
Thanda Safari is located 21 km from Phinda Airport.
What amenities are available in the rooms at Thanda Safari?
Rooms include an electric kettle, refrigerator, air conditioning, and complimentary toiletries.
Is there free Wi-Fi available at Thanda Safari?
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
What dining options are available on-site at Thanda Safari?
An on-site restaurant serves a variety of dishes, and guests can also enjoy private boma dining.
Is there a spa available at Thanda Safari?
The property features a spa offering beauty treatments and services such as massages and body scrubs.
Are there any recreational activities available at Thanda Safari?
Guests can participate in daily game drives, hiking, and have access to a kids' club and games room.
Is parking available at Thanda Safari?
Private parking is available on-site free of charge.
How far is Thanda Safari from the nearest city centre?
Thanda Safari is approximately 20 km from the city centre of Hluhluwe.
What languages are spoken by the staff at Thanda Safari?
The staff at Thanda Safari are proficient in multiple languages, including English and Zulu.
Are there opportunities for children at Thanda Safari?
Children can enjoy a mini club with activities tailored for their age, and a children's menu is also provided.

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