KwaZulu Natal, South Africa has to be one of the most popular Big 5 Destinations in South Africa. With it's temperate climate, ease of access, variety of Big 5 Reserves and incredible beaches travelers are fast adding this province to their itinerary. No where else in South Africa can one enjoy such a variety of Bush & Beach Big 5 Safaris.

The top Big 5 Game Reserves in KwaZulu Natal has to be undoubtedly the Hluhluwe Umfolozi Big 5 Game Reserve. This reserve or park is the largest in KwaZulu Natal and is 96000 hectares. Compared to the largest reserve, the Kruger National Park Hluhluwe Umfolozi offers easier self drive and safari options.

Why do so game reserves have the Big 5 Animals while other reserves do not?

• Carrying Capacity of Wildlife (the area of the park has to be sufficient in size)
• Fauna & Flora (not all animals can survive in specific reserves)
• Water sources (having adequate water is paramount)
• Pro-Creation (predators do consume large amounts of wildlife)
• Area to roam (certain wildlife need larger areas in which to roam and hunt)

The above contributing factors are but a small summary of factors needed to have the African Big 5 within certain game reserves. Conservation is critical and experience needed is paramount.

KwaZulu Natal is fortunate that such massive conservancy areas where dedicated to such areas. Hluhluwe Umfolozi Game Reserve being the very first such area. Initially the game reserve was not a Big 5 Reserve due to hunting that had transpired in the past.

Furthermore the Hluhluwe Umfolozi Big 5 Game Reserve was the reserve that saved the Rhino from near extinction when less than 100 Rhinos roamed the Earth in the early 60's.

The Game Capture Team to date are still utilizing techniques founded in those years. For those interested in more information should travel to the Centenary Centre in the Umfolozi Game Reserve where some splendid information, pictures and models may be found.