Article written by: Amanda O’Brien

I love safari! I had never visited a private game reserve and I hadn’t been on safari in South Africa so was thrilled to visit Thanda Safari in Zululand, South Africa. This 14000-hectare reserve is situated about 260km north of Durban and feels almost like visiting another world. Home to the big 5, Thanda Safari – Private Game Reserve offers an unforgettable luxury safari experience!

5StarTips🌟 For enjoying a luxury safari:

🌟 Take A Safari Photography Lesson

Uniquely, Thanda Safari offers every guest a free 90-minute photography lesson. Christian Sperka is the resident wildlife photographer at Thanda. Not only is he a fantastic photographer, he is also an outstanding teacher. Christian will teach you how to get the most out of your phone if that is all you have on safari as well as supporting more advanced equipment. If you are already a keen photographer, make sure you book some time on Christian’s customized safari photography vehicle – the Green Mamba! It comes with a Nespresso machine and a signature martini!

🌟 Pace Yourself – You Don’t Have To Do Every Game Drive

Game drives can be addictive! The fear of missing out on an amazing drive where there are cubs, or a kill, can make most people feel they can’t miss a single drive whilst on safari. Even though you are mainly sitting in a vehicle while on safari, it can be exhausting.

Early starts and fresh air can all build up – and remember you are on holiday! Thanda Safari is also so beautiful it feels like a shame to not have some time enjoying your luxury accommodation. So perhaps miss one game drive and sleep in or have an afternoon nap and refresh!

🌟 Visit the Spa

Yes, a spa in the middle of a safari! And not just someone coming to your room for a massage. Thanda Safari has a proper spa with a swimming pool, steam and sauna rooms and treatment rooms. Even better, the spa at Thanda Safari also incorporates ingredients and treatments used for centuries by the people of Zululand. Try Thanda’s Signature Marula Balm Massage. It uses Shea Butter and African Marula oil to leave skin soft.

🌟 Bring Some Zip Off Trousers

Zip off trousers are not a Paris catwalk item but they come into their own when it comes to safari. The temperature on safari changes massively across the day. 6am game drives start with guests covered in warm blankets. By 10am the sun is high up and most days a t-shirt and shorts will be most comfortable. However, temperatures will change across the day with swings in weather – and of course once the sun drops so does the temperature. Zip on and off trousers are ideal for providing flexibility in responding to changing weather conditions.

🌟 Learn About the Fascinating Zulu Culture

Thanda Safari works very closely with the local community. They are able to organize a visit to a traditional Zulu homestead, visit a Zulu healer or enjoy Zulu singing and dancing.

Final Thoughts:

Thanda Safari is the only resort in Zululand who is a member of “The Leading Hotels of the World” and it is clear as to why this is the case. In the 14000 hectares* there are only 9 bush suites, 15 luxury tents and one villa – and a considerable number of staff focused on the visitors!

*hectare: a metric unit of square measure, equal to 100 ares (2.471 acres or 10,000 square meters).

The suites are stunning. Beautifully decorated in modern yet rustic styling. My suite had a sitting room, fire, private plunge pool, a private BBQ area and a choice of an inside or outside shower. Add some amazing food and private dining opportunities and this is an Always5Star safari at its best! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

For more Always5Star Tips and Inspiration about traveling to South Africa:

Always5Star South Africa Tips For Five “Over The Top” Luxury Experiences That Are Not To Be Missed!

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