Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife launches adventure route

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife has unveiled an exciting new adventure route called Beach2Bush, offering travellers a rich blend of wildlife, culture, and coastal beauty.

This route connects the world-renowned Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, Africa’s oldest game reserve, with the pristine shores of St Lucia-iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Designed for nature lovers, families, school groups, and corporate teams, Beach2Bush invites visitors to explore KwaZulu-Natal’s famed Elephant Coast – one of South Africa’s most ecologically and historically significant regions.

“Beach2Bush offers travellers a unique lens through which to experience the province,” said Ebrahim Mulla, Ezemvelo’s Commercial Operations Executive Manager. 

“It blends biodiversity hotspots with land and water-based safari experiences and pays tribute to KZN’s natural beauty, wildlife, and heritage,” he said.  

The route kicks off at Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, once the royal hunting grounds of King Shaka Zulu. Established in 1895, the 96 000-hectare reserve is famous for its conservation work, particularly in protecting rhinos.

Visitors are treated to regular sightings of the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), as well as cheetah, giraffe, wild dogs, crocodiles, and hippos. The park also features sites of historical interest, such as places where King Shaka hosted tribal gatherings or hid his people from enemies.

From the heart of the bush, the journey transitions to the coastal haven of St Lucia within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Here, guests can explore coastal forests, estuarine lakes, and endless beaches.

Home to more than 6500 species of plants and animals, iSimangaliso supports everything from nesting leatherback turtles to over 500 species of birds.

“Whether it’s a boat cruise on the estuary, a bush picnic, or spotting wildlife on a game drive, there’s something for every kind of explorer,” said Siphelele Luthuli, Ezemvelo’s Senior Manager for Sales and Marketing.

One of the route’s signature experiences is the Bush Braai – an open-air dinner under the stars, enriched by traditional storytelling and conservation history.

To enhance visitor experiences, Ezemvelo has embarked on upgrades across various facilities. At Hilltop, chalets, decking, and lighting have been refurbished. Further enhancements are planned for Mthwazi Lodge.

“Thanks to the subtropical climate of the Elephant Coast, Beach2Bush is a year-round destination. The campaign is part of Ezemvelo’s broader tourism strategy, “Drive, Xplore and Stay in the Zulu Kingdom”, which promotes domestic travel and partners with hospitality brands across Durban and the Dolphin Coast,” said Luthuli.

“Our partnerships will help us reach wider local audiences and support sustainable ecotourism and conservation,” added Luthuli.