Mkhuze Safari

Authentic Mkhuze Safari Tours

Experience Mkhuze, Beyond Your Imagination

We curate unforgettable nature-based African safaris, shaped by over 25 years of experience and deep local connections. With every adventure designed to leave a lasting impact – on our travellers, the land, and the local communities who call Mkhuze home.

25+ years of expertise in 15 Africa Countries

1000+ thoughtfully selected travel partners

200,000+ travellers, many of whom return year after year

Years Crafting Personalised African Safaris
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Client Reviews at 5 Stars on Feefo
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Globally Recognised Travel Awards Won Last Year
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Travellers, Many Returning Year After Year
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Travellers, Many Returning Year After Year
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Why Travel With Exodussafaris?

25 Years of Safari Expertise ​

For over 25 years, we've been crafting personalised African safaris, shaped by our first-hand knowledge and deep local connections in Mkhuze.

We Know Because We Go

Our deep roots in Africa mean we have invaluable expertise about every destination, every lodge, every experience, and every hidden gem we recommend in Mkhuze.

24/7 Support

From your first enquiry until you safely return home, we're by your side, handling every detail with 24/7 support. And because of the hard-earned trust we've built with our on-the-ground partners in Mkhuze, we know they'll go above and beyond for you, just as we do.

Every Adventure Makes a Difference ​

As part of the Nawiri Group, every trip to Mkhuze helps protect vital ecosystems and local communities, supporting them as they thrive together.

Complete Financial Protection

Our deep roots in Africa mean we have invaluable expertise about every destination, every lodge, every experience, and every hidden gem we recommend in Mkhuze.

World-Class Recognition, Trusted by Travellers​

Recognised by Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and the World Travel Awards, we take pride in being among the world's best. But more than accolades, it's the voices of our travellers to Mkhuze that matter most – Feefo.

Mkhuze Gallery

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Where To Go In Mkhuze

Discover the best destinations in Mkhuze, from the scenic Mkhuze Game Reserve to the breathtaking Lebombo Mountains and beyond.

Mantuma Camp & Resort

Mantuma Camp serves as the hub of Mkhuze Game Reserve, nestled beneath shady trees near the Nsumo and Nhlonhlela pans. Guests stay in cosy self-catering chalets or safari tents, enjoy casual meals at MiaMantuma’s Rhino Dine-O, and relax by the pool—all while wildlife roams freely nearby.

Big Five Game Drives

Mkhuze is a true Big Five reserve—buffalo, elephant, black and white rhino, leopard, and, increasingly, lion can all be observed. Enjoy scheduled game drives where expert rangers track animals passing between waterholes, offering prime viewing opportunities in varied bushveld terrain.

Hide‑Based Wildlife Viewing

Four strategically placed hides at Kumasinga, Kubube, Kwamalibala, and Nsumo offer unparalleled wildlife watching. These hides provide close-up views of animals at water, perfect for photographers and immersive observation without disturbance.

Fig Forest Guided Walk

A highlight of the reserve, this guided trail winds through ancient sycamore fig forest—one of the few remaining in Africa. Walk across hanging bridges beneath gargantuan trees, and observe birdlife including Trumpeter Hornbills and Pel’s Fishing Owl.

Night Drives & Walking Safaris

Experience the reserve’s nocturnal side with expert-led night drives and guided walking safaris. Discover elusive nocturnal wildlife like bushbabies, genets, and possibly golden mammals while enjoying the thrill of a moonlit wilderness.

Birdwatcher’s Paradise

With 420+ bird species recorded, Mkhuze is revered among birders. Look for rare sand forest species like the suni and Grey-Hooded Kingfisher, plus waterbirds such as Pelicans, Fish Eagles, and herons around the pans.

Lebombo Mountains & Sand Forest

Explore the dramatic slopes of the Lebombo Mountains, dotted with rare sand forests. These ancient forests host endemic species and unique flora, offering scenic hiking routes with striking contrasts of red dunes and dry woodland.

Nsumo & Inhlonhlela Pans

These two sprawling pans are central to wildlife sighting. They attract hippos, crocodiles, and hundreds of species of waterbirds. Nsumo Pan’s hide is open to all visitors, while Nhlonhlela is reserved for bush-lodge guests.

Cultural Village Experience

Visit a nearby Zulu cultural village to experience traditional life, crafts, and storytelling of the KwaJobe people. Learn about community conservation efforts and view a sacred burial site accessible only to local clan members.

Auto‑Trails and Self‑Drive Routes

Drive through over 100 km of well-maintained roads across diverse habitats—savanna, woodland, grassland—at your own pace. Ideal for game enthusiasts using 4WDs during dry months to explore the reserve independently.

Guest Swimming Pool & Picnic Sites

Mantuma offers a refreshing swimming pool for guests, while two picnic/barbecue sites at Mantuma and Nsumo provide relaxed outdoor dining. Enjoy scenic lunches shaded by fever trees and lush scenery.

Nhlonhlela & Nsumo Waterhole Hides

These wildlife hides offer intimate views of hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife. Positioned near vital water sources, visits at dawn or dusk often reward guests with large mammal herds coming to drink.

Umkhumbi & Reserve Lodges

Stay in bush lodges like Nhlonhlela Bush Lodge or Umkhumbi Tented Bush Lodge for an immersive safari experience combining comfort with direct access to wildlife, guided activities, and exclusive lodge-run drives.

Ghost Mountain Hikes Nearby

Just outside Mkhuze, hikes around the legendary Ghost Mountain offer breathtaking views and a chance to uncover ghostly folklore while exploring historical battlegrounds and steep trails—perfect for day excursions outside the reserve.

Best Time To Visit Mkhuze

Discover the best destinations in Mkhuze, from the scenic Mkhuze Game Reserve to the breathtaking Lebombo Mountains and beyond.

Mkhuze Safari in January

Mkhuze Game Reserve experiences its hot, humid wet season during January, with heavy afternoon thunderstorms and lush green scenery. Dense foliage makes large mammal sightings harder, but the park comes alive with migratory birds and newborn wildlife.泥 The wildlife hides and pans teem with activity—perfect for birdwatching and landscape photography. Roads may be muddy, so 4×4 vehicles are essential. Muddy trails and thicker bush make exploration more adventurous...

Mkhuze Safari in February

February remains deep in the wet season at Mkhuze, with daily thunderstorms keeping the reserve verdant and vibrant. Though elephant and buffalo sightings are less predictable, birdlife is at its peak, with hundreds of species flocking to replenish after summer breeding. The heat and humidity may be intense, but lodge rates are lower and visitor numbers few. Note that game drives depend on road conditions, which can be challenging after storms...

Mkhuze Safari in March

March continues the wet season, with intense heat, high humidity, and frequent afternoon rains. The bush is thick and verdant, challenging visibility but delivering spectacular birdwatching opportunities. Wildlife viewing around pans may become slightly easier as water starts concentrating in fewer spots. Rates remain low, and there’s a raw wilderness charm to the reserve that appeals to year-round explorers...

Mkhuze Safari in April

April marks the transition from wet to dry season in Mkhuze, bringing lush landscapes and thinning foliage. Rainfall lessens, improving road access and game-drive conditions. Wildlife sightings become easier as animals begin to cluster around fewer water sources. Bird activity continues, especially for late migratory species before departure. Traveling in April combines dramatic scenery with gradually improving safari comfort...

Mkhuze Safari in May

May brings the start of Mkhuze’s dry season, with cooler mornings and clear skies. The bush thins, opening up bushveld views perfect for game drives and animal spotting. Wildlife hides at waterholes are now highly productive, drawing elephants, buffalo, rhino, and antelope. Temperatures dip in the early mornings—bring warm layers. May is ideal for combining comfort with excellent wildlife visibility...

Mkhuze Safari in June

June offers peak dry-season conditions in Mkhuze, with virtually no rain and crisp, cool mornings. Wildlife concentrates heavily at pans and waterholes, making game drives highly rewarding. Long days and pleasant afternoons create perfect conditions for bush walks, hide-viewing, and photography. Bird hides deliver superb looks at resident and returning species. The reserve is at its most accessible and wildlife-rich...

Mkhuze Safari in July

July is prime safari time in Mkhuze, featuring clear skies, low humidity, and almost no rainfall. Water sources dwindle, concentrating wildlife in smaller areas. Elephant herds, buffalo, rhino, and predators appear frequently. Guided walks and night drives are excellent in dry, cool conditions. Temperatures drop significantly at night, so pack layers. This month promises optimal wildlife viewing and comfort...

Mkhuze Safari in August

August continues the dry-season brilliance with warming days and crisp mornings. The bush remains sparse, aiding spotting of big game around the pans and waterholes. Bird hides provide excellent viewing, and the dry weather supports robust safari activities. August combines reliable wildlife sightings with increasing daylight hours, making it one of the best months to visit Mkhuze...

Mkhuze Safari in September

September brings hotter, drier conditions to Mkhuze with minimal rainfall. Vegetation is at its sparsest, producing clear game sightings. Wildlife congregate heavily at water points, and birdwatching remains high, with early migratory patterns beginning. Expect hot afternoons but mild early mornings—ideal for dawn drives. The combination of clarity, wildlife focus, and warm weather makes it a top safari month...

Mkhuze Safari in October

October starts to warm sharply as the dry season ends, with bush cracking under the heat. Wildlife becomes concentrated near lasting water in the pans. Visitor experiences include scenic bush drives, nocturnal game drives, and exploration of birding hides. It's hot by midday, so plan dawn or dusk activities. October delivers impressive wildlife sightings in rich dry-season light...

Mkhuze Safari in November

November marks the onset of the wet season in Mkhuze, with early summer rains beginning—though often limited to afternoon thunderstorms. The bush bursts back to life in vibrant green; birdlife peaks with returning migratory species. Roads may become patchy, but game hides still deliver wildlife scenes. Expect hotter afternoons and humid nights. It’s a season of renewal and dramatic transformation in the reserve...

Mkhuze Safari in December

December is firmly wet season at Mkhuze, with heavy rainfall and high humidity causing thick bush and fewer large mammal encounters. The landscape becomes a lush, tropical paradise filled with birds, frogs, and butterfly activity. Though game visibility wanes, this month appeals to wild beauty seekers. Roads may get muddy; 4×4 access is essential for exploring deeper areas. The reserve feels refreshingly alive...

Our Recommended Activities In Mkhuze

Explore our recommended experiences in Mkhuze and find your perfect way to connect with its natural beauty.

Mantuma Camp & Resort

Big Five Game Drives

Hide‑Based Wildlife Viewing

Fig Forest Guided Walk

Night Drives & Walking Safaris

Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Safari Lodges, Tented Camps and Villas
in Mkhuze

Savute Elephant Lodge, A Belmond Safari

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African Bush Camps Atzaro Okavango Camp

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Cha Cha Metsi

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What You Need To Know About Mkhuze Safaris

Find everything you need to know to plan your Mkhuze adventure, from travel tips to essential insights for an unforgettable trip.

Mkhuze Food and Tipping Practices

While visiting Mkhuze, you’ll enjoy a range of South African dishes, including grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and local specialties. Tipping is customary and appreciated; a 10-15% gratuity is standard at restaurants. Safari guides, trackers, and lodge staff generally receive tips at the end of a stay, with amounts depending on the level of service provided.

Mkhuze Food and Tipping Practices

A safari in Mkhuze caters to various budgets, ranging from affordable self-drive experiences to luxury lodges offering all-inclusive packages. Costs include park fees, accommodation, meals, and guided game drives. High season prices are higher, while low season offers better deals. Transfers and optional activities like bush walks or birding tours may add to the overall expense.

Cost of a Mkhuze Safari

Pack light, breathable clothing in neutral colors for safari, along with a good pair of walking shoes or boots. Don’t forget a sunhat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a pair of binoculars. A lightweight jacket is useful for chilly mornings, and a waterproof layer is handy during the rainy season.

Packing List for Mkhuze

The main languages spoken in the Mkhuze area are Zulu and English, with lodge and park staff fluent in English to assist international travelers. Learning a few basic Zulu phrases can enhance your connection with the local community. Guides and rangers communicate clearly to ensure an informative and enjoyable safari experience.

Languages in Mkhuze

Mkhuze experiences a subtropical climate, with hot, wet summers and dry, mild winters. The wet season runs from November to March, bringing lush greenery and excellent birdwatching opportunities. The dry season from May to September is ideal for game viewing as animals gather around limited water sources. Mornings and evenings can be cool in winter.

Climate in Mkhuze

Mkhuze is generally safe for visitors, especially within the boundaries of the game reserve and established lodges. It’s important to follow safety guidelines, such as staying in vehicles during game drives and listening to ranger instructions. Roads leading to Mkhuze are well-maintained, but self-drivers should remain cautious of wildlife crossings and local driving conditions.

Is Mkhuze Safe?

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