Natal Beach and Wildlife Self Drive

Day 1 – 4: The Oyster Box (B)

You’ll be met on arrival at Durban King Shaka International airport where you’ll pick up your car for the duration of your stay. The beautiful 5 star Oyster Box Hotel & Spa is just a short, scenic drive up the coast at Umhlanga.

The Oyster Box Hotel is one of Africa’s most distinguished hotels, with an abundance of colonial charm. It stands majestically on Umhlanga’s prestigious beachfront, with lush landscaped gardens and direct beach access. The hotel is conveniently situated in relation to the Natal Midlands and Drakensberg Mountains, as well as game parks, historic battlefields and eco-attractions.

Check into your beautifully appointed luxury room overlooking the sea. Equipped with everything you could need for your stay including deluxe toiletries, luxurious bathrobes and slippers and a selection of essentials for the beach – including bats, balls and sun umbrellas.

During your four days here you’ll find plenty to keep you busy. The beachfront is just a short stroll away and the hotel will be happy to set up your sun lounger wherever you want it. If you’re feeling active, why not enjoy a workout in the fully equipped fitness centre. There’s an indulgent spa to pamper the body and the latest film releases showing in the onsite cinema. Take a dip in the heated outdoor pool or just wander through the lush indigenous gardens which surround the hotel.

When you start to feel peckish, you’ve a tantalising selection of restaurants to enjoy. Whether you want sophisticated fine dining at The Grill Room, a casual snack on The Ocean Terrace or a legendary cocktail at The Palm Court – you’ll find your choice is expertly catered for. Plus don’t forget their award-winning wine list and the option to take afternoon tea with exquisite handmade scones, pastries and cakes.

Day 5 – 7: Mkuze Falls Lodge (B,L,D)

Leave The Oyster Box and enjoy a beautiful drive into the bush to get to Mkuze Falls Lodge. Located along the bank of the river and overlooking the Mkuze Waterfall, it is one of only two private game reserves in the region.

You will be shown to your luxury thatched chalet which comes complete with a breathtaking view of the bush and mountains. Each chalet has its own plunge pool and outside shower (don’t worry – there’s an ensuite too), air-conditioning, minibar, and a viewing deck to ensure you stay in the utmost comfort and style.

Why not sip a cocktail from your private viewing deck while you listen to the magical sounds of nature all around you. Take a dip in the outdoor pool or enjoy a drink at the bar as you recount the wonderful sights you’ve seen. After a busy day animal spotting, pamper yourself with a luxurious spa treatment.

Enjoy an open-vehicle safari with the experienced rangers. There are two drives a day: one in the early morning to catch the animals as they awake for the day, after which the guides will take you back to the lodge for a sumptuous breakfast. The second drive follows a hearty afternoon high tea before you set out to track down the animals active in the early evening. Your expert guides know the best places to watch the sunset and will bring the bush alive with their knowledge. With a little luck you’ll see elephants, lions, cape buffalo, rhino and leopards and many other wonderful animals who live in the reserve.

For a different perspective, you have the option to view the wilderness from a Safari Pontoon. Drift down the river and keep an eye out for animals and birdlife along the riverbank. Maybe you’ll spot an elephant enjoying a cool-down dip or the beautiful African Fish-Eagle about to swoop.

Day 8: Return to Durban (B)

Make the scenic drive back to Durban. Don’t forget to pack your camera with all your wonderful photos!

Price includes:

• Meet and Greet at King Shaka International Airport
• Detailed Digest including maps, directions and info
• Group C Toyota Corolla or similar – Classic plus navigation for 8 days (inclusions specified above)
• 4 nights’ accommodation at Oyster Box Hotel in a luxury sea facing room on a Bed and Breakfast basis
• 3 nights’ accommodation at Mkuze Falls Game Reserve in a luxury suite on a Full Board Basis with Activities

Price excludes:

• All flights (International and Domestic) for passengers and tour leader
• All other meals
• Optional tours
• All items of a personal nature – i.e. all drinks, laundry, telephone calls, curios, etc.
• All gratuities for guides / drivers (Recommended at US$ 1 per person, per guide / per driver, per day)
• Any other services not mentioned above