Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge
Ngweni Road, Hluhluwe 3960 South Africa
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Room & Suite (264)
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#5 of 57 hotels in Hluhluwe
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Travellers' Choice
The Heritage Safari Lodge was originally built in the 1940’s as a hotel and was a landmark pit-stop for weary travelers between Maputo and Durban. Acquired in 1996, the gracious building was lovingly restored to its original colonial grandeur, enhanced with new accommodation, and tastefully themed to highlight Zululand’s unique cultural heritage.With buffet-style meals in our restaurant, the wide, welcoming veranda and our ‘human watering hole’ - the pub or thatched boma, warm and relaxing atmosphere is conducive to shared good times and conviviality. The sparkling pool is always inviting, and you’re sure to enjoy browsing our beautifully stocked curio shop for a few authentic African mementos.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free internet
Pool
Free breakfast
Entertainment staff
Airport transportation
Meeting rooms
24-hour security
Secured parking
Internet
Outdoor pool
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast buffet
Kid-friendly buffet
Shuttle bus service
Gift shop
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
Laundry service
Ironing service
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Room features
Air conditioning
Private balcony
Safe
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
HOTEL STYLE
Great View
Mid-range
Languages Spoken
English, Afrikaans
Location
Ngweni Road, Hluhluwe 3960 South Africa
Getting there
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I never write reviews, but Ranger Graison was an amazing guide and deserves special recognition. He was accommodating in every way and provided insight and knowledge of the area and animals. The lodge and employees were all first class. I enjoyed the trip so much that I am going back next year and taking a friend to help complete his bucket list!
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled solo
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Room Tip: Take the side excursions that are suggested.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Accomodation was great, huge room and massive bathroom. Food was ok and the grounds lovely and well kept. Staff could have been a bit more friendly and some seemed reluctant to interact. The park we visited was the Hluhluwe National Park, which to be honest, was a bit disappointing, especially as there was another reserve minutes from Zulu Nyala, that was much better!
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
+1
My fiancé and I were very impressed with Zulu Nyala and had an amazing experience. The staff was kind and attentive to our needs, the rooms were very clean, and the grounds were beautiful. I am a picky and not an adventurous eater; therefore, I was worried that I would not like the food but I was impressed and well-fed. There is a wide selection of food options and something there for everyone. We stayed in one of the regular rooms which was plenty big and we loved that it was so close to the front of the property. Staying close to the main building, we were also lucky enough to have a strong wifi signal. There are nyala and monkey roaming the property, they are not tame at all, but you can get very close. You go on 2 game drives a day and have the option to book additional excursions, which are reasonably priced. We were randomly paired with 6 other people, which you also eat your meals with – we were lucky and had a great group. Chris was our guide; he worked very hard to find the animals, get us close and was very knowledgeable. I am sure everyone thinks they had the best guide but I cannot imagine this would have been quite as an amazing experience with someone else as our guide. Chris’s sense of humor is great and many hours were spent a day laughing hysterically. Everyone in our group agreed that he is invaluable to Zulu Nyala and we completely lucked out getting him as our guide – 2 of the couples have been on safari’s before so they were able to compare from precious experiences. I thought our trip to South Africa would be a one and done type of vacation, where we check it off our bucket list and there wasn’t a need to go back; however, I can assure you will visit South Africa again and I would definitely be open to staying a Zulu Nyala again. The only constructive criticism I could give is that it would be nice to have a map of the property or to list what is available. There is an amazing area in the back of the property with a nice gym and tv room that we would not have been aware of if Chris had not told us. Sadly this space is not utilized and it is extremely nice. Apparently there is also another lounge near reception, which Chris mentioned, but we never made it there. The other item where I think they can improve is at the bar – it was extremely hot and I would have loved to have frozen drinks. There were others at the pool that mentioned this disappointment as well. Also, music playing in the bar area all day would give it a better feel and I think people would hangout and spend more time and money there. Tips for anyone going – Hluhluwe Umfolozi Park and the Elephant Interaction Tour is a MUST! Also, take the advice of your guide and leave at the time they suggest, this isn’t a vacation that you want to sleep in, there is plenty of time to rest/nap between game drives. …
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
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Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
+1
This was our second visit to Zulu Nyala. The staff is diligently working to bring things back post pandemic. I visited with my sister and my son. We were in a very lovely 2-bedroom unit. The nyala on the property greeted us often and the monkeys enjoyed our porches. The grounds are immaculate, and the staff continue to be friendly, kind and dedicated to ensuring that all guests have a wonderful experience. The lodge has two pools, a gym, a library, a TV room, a gift shop and two dining rooms with a cocktail lounge. As the lodge is still trying to get its numbers back up from the pandemic, lunch is usually still offered from a fixed menu but dinner was a nice buffet featuring both African and western selections. There is also a Zulu show onsite which guests can attend for an additional fee. Each guest is offered two game drives a day. Our guide, Siya was awesome. Each day we went on different routes and saw so many animals. We were thrilled to see several baby rhinos, hippos, elephants, warthogs, giraffes, zebras, many birds, monkeys, buffalo and a jackal. There are no large cats in the park due to size but we did take a side excursion to a lion park and we saw lions and cheetahs. The staff at the park also offer many side excursions that guests can participate in such a visit to nearby St. Lucia, scuba diving, snorkeling, lion park, or elephant interaction. Everyone who works here clearly loves their job and are dedicated to the animals and ensuring that the habitat stays safe. The grounds are immaculate and very safe to navigate. Do bring a flashlight for walking at night and do not leave anything outside unless you want a monkey to take it (LOL). All rooms are provided with bottled water and coffee and tea daily..…
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Bring a flashlight as although paths are lit it can be very dark at night and the nyala and...
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
+1
My husband and I had the most amazing time at Zulu Nyala. The accommodations were clean and spacious, the grounds and garden paths were beautiful, the food was great and the staff was wonderful! Our guide Siya was the best, and made each game drive special. And the wildlife… it was beyond anything we could have expected. I would highly recommend Zulu Nyala to anyone wanting to see the sights of Africa.
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Lise Holloway, Marketing at Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge
Responded 1 week ago
Thank you for taking the time to review our venue and for your 5 star rating throughout! This is what the Zulu Nyala Team strives for. Great pride is taken in every aspect from housekeeping to landscaping and gardening. The staff are always embracing and happy to welcome each and every safari guest as this gives all the opportunity to share the gem of a place that we call 'home' to others. Ranger Siya is a great Ranger with his knowledge, experience and hosting skills. Nothing is too much trouble and each game drive is 'special' to him and hence his guests that he hosts. We're so pleased you enjoyed the wildlife. Our private reserve while not huge, sure has an incredible selection of animals that are in abundance - great photo opportunities and just the experience of being in the African bush in their natural habitat. Your recommendation is appreciated and we hope to welcome and host many more safari guests in order to share the 'sights of Africa' with them. Kind regards. The Zulu Nyala Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
Undoubtedly one of the greatest experiences of my entire life! I came here on my honeymoon with my wife and we both had an absolute blast! We had the big suite and it was very comfortable and accommodating. Felt like a mini home and it had everything we needed. Our bed was very relaxing and were able to sleep very well every night. Every staff member at the resort was very friendly and our tour guide was the best! We had an excursion every day and we were able to see every single animal in the whole park! It was absolutely amazing! We had the pleasure of meeting two other super cool couples that we traveled with. They made every trip/outing very exciting and adventurous! The animal parks and St Lucia beach trips were top tier we were able to get tons of good pictures and videos. My wife and I also got massages and went swimming on site…every little detail was incredible. Well worth the 20+ hours and 10,000 miles to travel here. Unforgettable experience that we’ll never forget! We’ll certainly come back if given the opportunity. Highly recommend for any traveler. Zulu Nyala made our trip very special and memorable.…
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Be prepared for the weather. Game drives can get very windy so bring a light jacket and maybe a...
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Lise Holloway, Marketing at Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge
Responded 1 week ago
Thank you for your review and 5 star rating throughout. Your compliments, kind words and great recommendation are so very appreciated. Congratulations on your recent marriage. We are honoured to have been your destination of choice for your honeymoon! Forever memories shared with the Zulu Nyala Team - as they say 'priceless'! Partaking in the off-site excursions which resonate with you sure does add extra to your memories. The on-site spa and two pools - bliss well enjoyed. A great way to wind down from long travel time which is well worth it, you say - thanks! We strive to create a 'home-away-from-home' for each and every guest and are thrilled that that was accomplished in every way. As we say - arrive as strangers, leave as part of the Zulu Nyala family! Please do post your photos and videos on our FB Group for all to see if possible - Zulu Nyala Guest Photos - and if not already done! Sharing experiences with others is so important for all. We hope you do have the opportunity to return someday and appreciate 'Highly recommend for any traveler. Zulu Nyala made our trip very special and memorable' in every way. Kind regards. The Zulu Nyala Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Great Safaris and Staff, Room was clean and comfortable. Terrific gift shop. My only complaint is the food was terrible. Very bland and not up to par with your program. The bar wine and spirits could use a higher grade selection as well.
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Lise Holloway, Marketing at Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge
Responded 2 weeks ago
Thank you for taking the time to review Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge and for your input. The Team prides themself in delivering on all aspects of our safari offerings and it pleases us to receive your compliments. 'Curiosity' does have an excellent selection of gifts, necessities and mementos - terrific - thank you! The Catering Team strives to prepare and provide good, wholesome food to suit the variety of palettes presented to us by our safari guests. Our bar is well stocked with drinks that are found to be popular and well received within variety, personal tastes and price-point. We're sorry you found us lacking in these aspects and have taken note. Arrive as strangers, leave as part of the Zulu Nyala Family! With thanks and appreciation.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My friend and I had a fabulous time at Zulu Nyala. We stayed in the luxury heritage camp lodging "suite." It was spacious, clean, and had all the amenities one would need. We thoroughly enjoyed sitting on the veranda each evening as the sun set, watching the nyalas and monkeys up close. The food was tasty and plentiful. The daily game drives and various excursions were well planned, organized and priced accordingly. Other travelers in our group were friendly and fun to be with. We did not experience any rolling blackouts - as the resort now has a generator. Graison - our guide - was exceptional. His knowledge and experience ensured that we got to see everything we could and eat at some great local restaurants. The spa services were also nice. Various options at reasonable prices. My only requests: face (wash) cloths in the bathrooms and have a large coffee pot/machine & paper cups in the game drive meeting area. Can't wait to come back again in the future. Thank you Zulu Nyala. …
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled with friends
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Lise Holloway, Marketing at Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge
Responded 2 weeks ago
Thank you for your review and 5 star rating throughout. Your comprehensive, positive comments and feedback are so appreciated. We're pleased you enjoyed the outdoor veranda at your room - it is a great place to just still and to enjoy all around you. Our catering team has a great menu variety and strives towards offering variety and something for each taste palette. Ranger Graison is an awesome host and valuable member of our Ranger Team. It seems like he took wonderful care of you not only on our private game reserve twice daily game-drives but, also in the organising and co-ordination of your off-site excursions including experiencing some of the local restaurants. Our on-site spa is a welcome place for relaxing and rejuvenating and has many treatments available to suit what each and every guest may need. A lovely way to treat oneself post a long journey or just because one deserves to be pampered. We have noted your requests. Please, do come back! You know how to reach us when you're ready and we sure look forward to hosting you once again. Arrive as strangers, leave as part of the Zulu Nyala Family!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
Excellent safari experience at Zulu Nyala! The highlight was definitely the opportunity to see animals in their natural environment, up close and personal. We were two Canadian couples in adjoining suites, and ended up getting teamed up with two English couples. The eight of us went on early morning and late afternoon safari drives together, plus we went on off-site excursions. First: guide Chris was outstanding! We were so lucky to have him. Second: the rooms were great with amazingly comfortable beds, linens, bathroom facilities, etc. Our favourite off-site excursions included Imfolozi Game Reserve (lions), local restaurants (there was a grapefruit g+t), and Ilala Weaving. The ZN grounds are beautiful too. All meal were served buffet style, and the food was good but not outstanding. Maybe some a la carte meals could be added? Service was very good, everyone was friendly and helpful. Overall, we had an unforgettable experience, highly recommend. …
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Really excellent and unforgettable experience overall, the animals! Think ahead about extra money...
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Zulu Nyala, Marketing at Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge
Responded 3 weeks ago
Thank you for your 5 star rating and much appreciated, comprehensive review. This makes the Zulu Nyala Team incredibly happy - 'Overall, we had an unforgettable experience, highly recommend.' Our private reserve certainly allows for many close-and-personal animal viewing experiences, great photo opportunities with cameras or cellphones - be ready as you never know what may be around the next corner! Ranger Chris is outstanding as you mention, he is an excellent host with great passion, knowledge and a sense of humour and big smile. The off-site excursions do add to the greater safari and time spent in South Africa experience, wow to seeing lion - this is never a guarantee as they are ultimately wild and live on a huge reserve being Imfolozi Game Reserve. Our selection of accommodation options does allow for each traveler to chose what suits them both. Good sleep is important plus comfort while in your rooms, delivered on this aspect in every way for you. Our landscaping/gardening crews consistently maintain and care for the vast Heritage property gardens. So much beauty to see plus abundant bird and insect life. We strive towards - no-one goes to bed hungry and providing meals that offer something for each taste/eating preference. Good food delivered by a committed catering team, each time. Your suggestion for some a la carte meals has been noted. Service with a smile as the saying goes - friendly, helpful - that's the Zulu Nyala way... Arrive as strangers, leave as part of the Zulu Nyala family - unforgettable experience - thanks once again. Highly appreciate.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Overall great experience. James our guide for the week was super! He went above and beyond to make sure our group of 8 were taken care of. Great animal drives and our timing was amazing and we saw so many animals. Once in a lifetime experience. Lodge was clean and nice. Food was good but nothing special, and plenty of it. Service staff was excellent. I would recommend a stay for sure.
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Zulu Nyala, Marketing at Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge
Responded 3 weeks ago
Thank you for taking the time to review our Heritage Safari Lodge. Your comments and recommendation are greatly appreciated. Ranger James is an outstanding host with vast knowledge, dedication and a sense of humour. He is proudly our Head Ranger and certainly knows the lay of the land to find animals. We strive for excellence in every department and way from housekeeping to landscaping, catering to maintenance, service in the restaurant and bar AND everywhere else possible - 'Excellent' is what we love to hear. Thank you. Kind regards. The Zulu Nyala Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
PRICE RANGE
US$152 - US$214 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
zulu nyala heritage safari hotel hluhluwe
LOCATION
South AfricaKwaZulu-NatalZululandHluhluwe
NUMBER OF ROOMS
57
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Claim Your ListingZULU NYALA HERITAGE SAFARI LODGE - Now R 3 037 (Was R̶ ̶4̶ ̶0̶6̶2̶) - UPDATED 2023 Hotel Reviews & Price Comparison (Hluhluwe, South Africa) - Tripadvisor
Frequently Asked Questions about Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge
Which popular attractions are close to Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge?
Nearby attractions include Ilala Weavers (6.7 km), Zulu Croc Reptile Park (7.7 km), and Tunga Needlework Studio (7.8 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free breakfast, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.
What food & drink options are available at Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge?
Yes, free parking and secured parking are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge?
Conveniently located restaurants include Rafikis, Ngweni Railroad Brewery, and Zulu Croc.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge have an airport shuttle?
Yes, Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge offers an airport shuttle for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Does Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge have airport transportation?
Yes, Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Afrikaans.
Is Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge accessible?
Yes, it offers wheelchair access and facilities for disabled guests. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.