Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is South Africa's oldest proclaimed game reserve, renowned for its rich biodiversity and exceptional wildlife viewing, especially of the Big Five.
Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park spans over 960 square kilometers in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. It combines two former reserves, Hluhluwe and Imfolozi, and is celebrated for its pioneering rhinoceros conservation programs that helped save the white rhino from extinction. The park features rolling savannahs, acacia woodlands, and river valleys that provide diverse habitats for animals including lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and both black and white rhinos. Visitors can experience self-drive safaris or guided game drives to observe abundant wildlife in their natural environment. The park also has a rich cultural heritage linked to the Zulu people and offers ancient archaeological sites such as the Lebombo Bone nearby. Key landmarks include the steep Lebombo Mountains to the east and the diverse terrain of the central Imfolozi Valley. Camping and bush lodges within the park supply comfortable accommodation options, while ranger-led walks and night safaris deepen visitors' connection to the wilderness. Hluhluwe-Imfolozi is a top destination for travelers seeking authentic African safaris combined with well-maintained infrastructure and conservation success stories, making it one of the most visited protected areas in South Africa.
White Rhino Conservation Area – renowned for successful rhino preservation efforts
The Lebombo Mountains – scenic ridges with panoramic views over the park
Big Five Wildlife Viewing – lions, elephants, black and white rhinos, buffalo, leopards
Hluhluwe River Valley – lush habitat supporting diverse birdlife and animals
Hluhluwe-Imfolozi played a crucial role in reviving the white rhino population through intensive protection programs.
A volcanic mountain range forming the eastern boundary of the park, offering excellent viewpoints and unique flora.
The park is one of the few places where visitors have high chances to see all Big Five species in the wild.