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Rhino River Lodge


4 STAR LODGE IN ZULULAND
KWAZULU NATAL, SOUTH AFRICA

The Rhino River Lodge is nestled with a private game reserve in the heart of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. This luxurious lodge exudes a serene intimacy that eases the mind and body as soon as the fresh air and sunshine are experienced by weary travellers. The bushveld, high starry skies and abundance of fauna and flora is the ideal escape from the chaos of the outside world.

The private game reserve that is home to the lodge is part of the greater Zululand Rhino Reserve and is, therefore, the largest private game reserve in South Africa. This is also an area that has been selected for the reintroduction of the Black Rhino, which is both rare and endangered. The World Wildlife Fund and KZN Ezemvelo joined forces to ensure that this species is as protected as possible. At present, there are over 25 Black Rhinos on the reserve, six of which have been born since their introduction to the area. Other fascinating animals that guests can look forward to spotting are Red Duikers, servals, caracals, Vervet Monkeys, warthogs, jackals, porcupines, genets and tortoises. This variety makes for fun and exciting game viewing.

The Lodge

The Rhino River Lodge is perched on the Umsunduze River banks and boasts stunning facilities and convenient amenities that ensure that each of our esteemed guests feel welcomed. The Fig and Fever trees make for enchanting vistas, while the inviting lounge, dining room and bar are comfortable retreats after hot days spent in the African bushveld. The river is best enjoyed from the elevated deck.

Visitors wanting an authentic African experience are advised to sit around a roaring campfire inside the boma, a traditional meeting place. Here, they may sample some of the country's best wines, meet with other guests and compare their adventures. Pre-dinner drinks are served here.

The swimming pool's sparkling crystal waters are the perfect end to a summer's day, as guests refresh themselves before a hearty dinner.

The Rhino River Lodge is also ideal for conferences, training seminars, teambuilding initiatives, etc... Although the conference facilities are small, they provide excellent amenities and services within the serenity of the outdoors.

Accommodation

The Rhino River Lodge comprises four twin units and several thatched log cabins. The cabins each accommodate up to five people and are self-catering, giving guests an added measure of independence and flexibility. The floors are tiled using ironstone, ensuring that these cottages are cool and comfortable, even during the heat of South Africa's summer.

The twin units all enjoy en-suite facilities as well as a mini bar, private entrance, private balcony, views of the river and a tea- and coffee station. The balcony provides an idyllic retreat on which to savour a steaming cup of cocoa or a refreshing beer.

Activities

There are several activities available to the welcomed guests of the Rhino River Lodge, all designed to showcase the countryside and its residents to the best degree.

Game Drives Guests are urged to participate in both the morning and late afternoon game drives so that they have the opportunity to see the widest range of animals in their natural habitat. The morning game drive is interrupted by a coffee break at a watering hole or other relevant site, while the evening game drive is rounded off with a refreshing sundowner. Upon returning to the lodge, the fire will be awaiting the guests inside the boma, ready for an evening of good food, friendship and conversation.

The night drive is conducted some time after the sun has set, when the nocturnal creatures have left their hiding places to hunt, drink water and play in the cool of the darkness. Nocturnal species include leopards, bush babies and aardvarks.

Bush Trails Guests who are looking for a more intimate encounter with Africa should embark on a guided walk through the bush, where they are able to smell the warm air, feel the plants, hear the birds and taste the bushveld. A ranger will take a small group of guests (maximum of six people) along one of the trails and provide fascinating information regarding the multi-faceted, ever-changing world around them. These trips are conducted in the early morning and late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and take anywhere between two and three hours to complete.

Birding Avid bird enthusiasts are reminded to bring their binoculars and bird books along with them so as not to miss out on the plethora of birdlife around the beautiful Rhino River Lodge. Frequently seen species include the Paradise Wydah, Martial Eagle, Yellow Spotted Nicatar, Pinkthroated Twinspot, Rudd's Apalis and the Crested Guineafowl.

Tours

Day Tours
  • Tiger Fishing trips
  • Hluhluwe/Umfolozi Game Reserve Tours
  • Game Drive into Mkhuze Game Reserve
  • Hippo and crocodile tours in St Lucia
  • Whale watching
  • Elephant interaction
Sightseeing Tours include:
  • Ghost and Lebombo Mountain Range which overlooks the Greater St Lucia World Heritage Site.
  • Mkhuze River Bird Walk
  • Ghost Mountain Walk
Places of Interest:

Arts & Crafts
  • Ilala Weavers - Hluhluwe
  • Emdoneni Art Gallery
  • Zamampilo traditional market
  • Dumazulu cultural village: Aviary, Crocodile Pool, Zulu Dancing
Educational
  • Emdoneni rehabilitation centre
  • Elephant Interaction
Scuba Diving & Snorkelling
  • Sodwana Coral DiversCape Vidal
Location

GPS CO-ORDINATES:
S.27.80169
E.032.10732

Directions

We are 300km from Durban Airport. When travelling north on the N2 from Durban, approximately 27km past the Hluhluwe turnoff, turn left into the P450, opposite the Baobab Inn. At this point you will also see a brown road sign pointing to "Rhino River". Our main entrance gate will be on your right-hand side 4km along the P450. When travelling south on the N2 from Pongola/Johannesburg, approximately 20km past the turnoff to Mkuze, turn right into the P450, opposite the Baobab Inn.

Please ensure you have your confirmation of booking with you on which you will find the access code to operate the electric entrance gate.