Frequently Asked Questions

We have answers

What makes Babanango Game Reserve unique?

Babanango spans over 20,000 hectares of pristine wilderness in the heart of Zululand. It’s one of Southern Africa’s most ambitious rewilding projects and now proudly a Big Five Reserve. Expect an authentic, slow safari experience with no vehicle crowding — just you, your guide, and nature at its most inspiring.

When is the best time to visit?

There’s truly no wrong season to visit Babanango.

  • Summer (Nov–Mar): Lush green bush, baby animals, migratory birds, and dramatic afternoon thunderstorms.
  • Winter (May–Aug): Golden landscapes, crisp mornings, and excellent wildlife viewing as animals gather near rivers and dams.

Each season brings its own sense of magic — from summer’s vibrant energy to winter’s serene calm.

How many bird species can be found at Babanango?

We’re proud to host 334 bird species and counting! From vibrant sunbirds and resident cuckoos to rare raptors, Babanango is a true birdwatcher’s paradise, especially during the summer months when migratory species arrive from across the globe.

Yes! Babanango is located in a malaria-free area of KwaZulu-Natal — ideal for families and first-time safari-goers.

Babanango enjoys a subtropical climate with warm summers and mild, dry winters.

  • Summer: 18–32°C, with short afternoon showers that refresh the bush.
  • Winter: 8–24°C, with clear skies and cool nights — perfect for cosy fires and stargazing.

We’re approximately 3.5 hours from Durban and 5.5 hours from Johannesburg. Guests can self-drive or request a transfer when booking. Directions and lodge details are provided in your confirmation email.

Yes — two guided game drives daily (morning and afternoon) are included for guests staying at our Big Five Babanango Game Reserve lodges: Madwaleni River Lodge, Zulu Rock Lodge, Valley Lodge, and Valley Lodge – Hill Top House. All drives are led by our experienced rangers.

What wildlife can I expect to see?

Babanango Game Reserve is proudly a Big Five destination — home to lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo — following one of Southern Africa’s most inspiring rewilding journeys.

But the magic doesn’t stop there! Our diverse ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes support an incredible range of species, from the shy brown hyena to the flamboyant purple-crested turaco and the critically endangered oribi.

Guests can also spot:

  • Diverse cat species including cheetah, serval, and caracal
  • 14 antelope species, including the rare Oribi
  • 79 butterfly species dancing through the valleys
  • Endangered aloes found nowhere else in Africa
  • 334 bird species (and counting!)

Every sighting at Babanango tells a story — from the thrill of a lion’s roar to the quiet wonder of a sunbird at dawn.

What should I pack for my safari?

Comfort is key!

  • Neutral clothing: Beige, olive, and khaki tones help you blend into the bush.
  • Layers: Mornings can be cool, even in summer.
  • Sun protection: Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essentials.
  • Comfortable shoes: Closed shoes for walks and sandals for relaxing.
  • Camera & binoculars: You’ll want to capture every unforgettable moment.

(And don’t forget swimwear for our lodge pools)

Guests at Babanango Game Reserve can enjoy a wide range of activities:

Included with your stay:

  • Two guided game drives daily (morning and afternoon)

Note: One of your included game drives can be swapped for any of the following free activities:

  • Guided bush walks
  • Night drives
  • Coppermine Tour

Optional activities (extra cost):

  • Wildlife monitoring
  • Historical battlefield tours (Isandlwana & Rorke’s Drift)
  • Ziplining adventures
  • Birding safaris
  • Cultural and community experiences
  • Geology Safari

For pricing and availability of optional activities, please contact our reservations team.

All activities are led by expert guides passionate about sharing the reserve’s wildlife, history, and conservation story.

Yes — guests staying at our adjacent Matatane Camp can enquire about private game drives at an additional cost. This is a great option for those wanting to experience safari wildlife while staying at the camp.

Yes — certain fees are not included in your accommodation rate and are payable on arrival. These fees help support the local community and ongoing conservation efforts at Babanango.

For Madwaleni River Lodge, Zulu Rock Lodge & Valley Lodge:

  • Community & Conservation Fee: R180 per adult per day | R90 per child per day

For Matatane Camp:

  • Community & Conservation Fee: R20 per adult per day | R20 per child per day

What are these fees for?
These contributions go directly towards:

  • Supporting local communities through education, employment, and development projects
  • Funding wildlife conservation initiatives, habitat restoration, and rewilding programs
  • Ensuring the sustainability of the reserve and preserving the natural environment for future generations

By paying these fees, guests actively contribute to the ongoing protection of Babanango’s unique wildlife and the wellbeing of surrounding communities.

No, day visits are not available. Babanango Game Reserve is designed to offer an immersive and exclusive safari experience. Guests staying at our 4- and 5-star lodges enjoy two guided game drives daily — morning and afternoon — along with world-class accommodation, exquisite dining, and the serene atmosphere of our pristine wilderness.

Day visits cannot capture the full Babanango experience. We carefully maintain minimal traffic on the reserve, ensuring guests can truly unwind, connect with nature, and enjoy a private, almost isolated experience in the heart of Zululand.

Are children welcome at Babanango Game Reserve?

Yes! Children of all ages are welcome at Valley Lodge, Hill Top House, and Matatane Camp. Children over 8 years old are welcome at Zulu Rock Lodge and Madwaleni River Lodge.

Game drive age restrictions:

  • Valley Lodge & Hill Top House: Children 6 years and older may join game drives.
  • Zulu Rock & Madwaleni River Lodge: Children 8 years and older may join game drives.

Game drives are conducted with safety in mind, and certain animals may not be shown to younger children.

Private game drive option:

  • Families wishing to include younger children can book a private game drive (subject to availability).
  • Maximum: 2 drives per day, 3 hours each.
  • Additional fee: R5,250 per drive/day.
  • Guides may exercise discretion at certain animal sightings to ensure child safety.

Children Rates:

  • 0 to 3 years: Free of charge. May share a room with parents with no supplement for cot use.
  • 4 to 11 years: 50% of rack rate. May share selected rooms with parents.
  • 12 years and over: 100% of rack rate.
  • Children staying in a room alone: Charged full adult rates.

Please note: While sightings of the Big Five cannot be guaranteed across our 22,000-

Evenings at Babanango are pure magic — sundowners overlooking the valleys, fireside dinners beneath starlit skies, and the sounds of the bush surrounding you. It’s the perfect ending to each unforgettable day in the wild.

Babanango enjoys a subtropical climate with warm summers and mild, dry winters.

  • Summer: 18–32°C, with short afternoon showers that refresh the bush.
  • Winter: 8–24°C, with clear skies and cool nights — perfect for cosy fires and stargazing.

Guests at Babanango Game Reserve can enjoy a wide range of activities:

Included with your stay:

  • Two guided game drives daily (morning and afternoon)

Note: One of your included game drives can be swapped for any of the following free activities:

  • Guided bush walks
  • Night drives
  • Coppermine Tour

Optional activities (extra cost):

  • Wildlife monitoring
  • Historical battlefield tours (Isandlwana & Rorke’s Drift)
  • Ziplining adventures
  • Birding safaris
  • Cultural and community experiences
  • Geology Safari

For pricing and availability of optional activities, please contact our reservations team.

All activities are led by expert guides passionate about sharing the reserve’s wildlife, history, and conservation story.

Yes — guests staying at our adjacent Matatane Camp can enquire about private game drives at an additional cost. This is a great option for those wanting to experience safari wildlife while staying at the camp.

Are there any additional fees during my stay?

Yes — certain fees are not included in your accommodation rate and are payable on arrival. These fees help support the local community and ongoing conservation efforts at Babanango.

For Madwaleni River Lodge, Zulu Rock Lodge & Valley Lodge:

  • Community & Conservation Fee: R180 per adult per day | R90 per child per day

 

For Matatane Camp:

  • Community & Conservation Fee: R20 per adult per day | R20 per child per day

 

What are these fees for?
These contributions go directly towards:

  • Supporting local communities through education, employment, and development projects
  • Funding wildlife conservation initiatives, habitat restoration, and rewilding programs
  • Ensuring the sustainability of the reserve and preserving the natural environment for future generations.

 

By paying these fees, guests actively contribute to the ongoing protection of Babanango’s unique wildlife and the wellbeing of surrounding communities.

Babanango Game Reserve offers a range of accommodation styles to suit every traveller:

  • Madwaleni River Lodge:
    Our five-star flagship lodge offers unmatched luxury with private plunge pools, panoramic river views, and elegant fine dining.

    Starting from R10,650 per person per night sharing     – includes two game drives, all meals, and local alcoholic beverages.
  • Zulu Rock Lodge:
    A 4-star luxury lodge offering romantic, elevated suites with sweeping valley views and elegant Zulu-inspired design. Guests can enjoy the lodge’s deck area, pool, and intimate wine cellar, perfect for relaxing or entertaining.

    Starting from R5,150 per person per night sharing     – includes two game drives, all meals, and water, basic teas, and coffee.
  • Valley Lodge:
    A 4-star, family-friendly lodge nestled in the south of Babanango Game Reserve. Featuring nine luxury rooms, Valley Lodge offers gardens, infinity and kids’ pools, a spa, gym, jungle gyms for children, and an outdoor boma with a firepit. Perfect for families or small groups seeking comfort, privacy, and fun. It is our only enclosed Big Five lodge.

    Starting from R4,450 per person per night sharing     – includes two game drives, all meals, and water, basic teas, and coffee.
  • Valley Lodge – Hill Top House:
    A secluded, family-friendly retreat nestled high in the hills, featuring three bedrooms, a private pool, private boma, and breathtaking views of the reserve. Available as either a self-catering or fully catered option. It is our only enclosed Big Five lodge.

    Self-Catering (min 4 guests): R4,250 per person per night sharing     – includes two game drives.
    Catered (min 4 guests): R5,600 per person per night sharing – includes two game drives, all meals, and water, basic teas, and coffee.
  • Matatane Camp
    A 3-star “Back to Basics” safari camp ideal for families, groups, or adventure seekers seeking a relaxed, nature-focused stay. Accommodation includes chalets and Meru-style tents. The camp features two campsites, two pools, hiking trails, obstacle courses for children, and encounters with non-dangerous wildlife. Guests also have access to the 5-platform zipline tour through the gorge.

    Matatane is located outside the Big Five reserve on a 130-hectare property adjacent to Babanango, separated by the White Umfolozi River and connected via a suspension bridge.

Starting prices:

  • Self-Catering Chalets: R1,150 per person per night sharing – includes water, basic teas, and coffee.
  • Catered Chalets: R1,600 per person per night sharing – includes all meals, water, basic teas, and coffee.
  • Catered Meru-Style Tents (max 2 guests): R1,250 per person per night sharing – includes all meals, water, basic teas, and coffee.
Are day visits to Babanango Game Reserve allowed?

No, day visits are not available. Babanango Game Reserve is designed to offer an immersive and exclusive safari experience. Guests staying at our 4- and 5-star lodges enjoy two guided game drives daily — morning and afternoon — along with world-class accommodation, exquisite dining, and the serene atmosphere of our pristine wilderness.

Day visits cannot capture the full Babanango experience. We carefully maintain minimal traffic on the reserve, ensuring guests can truly unwind, connect with nature, and enjoy a private, almost isolated experience in the heart of Zululand.

Can guests drive within the lodges or the reserve?

Self-driving is not allowed within Babanango Game Reserve to ensure guest safety and protect wildlife. All wildlife viewing is done from our guided game vehicles.

Getting to your lodge:

  • Zulu Rock Lodge & Madwaleni River Lodge: Guests may drive from the northern Nhlopeni Gate along a short 2-minute road to the hub, where they park and transfer into a game vehicle. Travel from the hub to the lodge takes 20 minutes to Zulu Rock and 1 hour to Madwaleni River Lodge.
  • Valley Lodge & Hill Top House: Guests may drive from the southern Nsuben Gate along a straight 10-minute road directly to the lodge. From there, all wildlife viewing is via guided game drives.