Thanda Private Game Reserve, in Northern Zululand, combines romantic decadence and exclusivity with fabulous game viewing and an insight into Zulu culture. Thanda - meaning ‘love’ in Zulu - is set on a 14,000 hectare reserve approx three hours north of Durban and is the winner of the prestigious "Worlds Leading Luxury Lodge" category at the World Travel Awards in 2009.

Thanda is committed to restoring the area’s natural eco-systems and has reintroduced game including the “Big-Five” plus the black rhino, cheetah & wild dogs, the latter all  endangered species. Game drives are taken in open 4WD vehicles, and bush walks, led by knowledgeable and experienced game rangers and trackers, introduce guests to the sights and sounds of wildest Africa.

The nine luxury Bush Villas at the main lodge each have a private infinity pool, viewing deck, boma for private dining (open-air reed enclosure), private sala (an outside day bed area), lounge, fireplace and full bathroom with inside and outside showers. Thanda’s safari accommodation option also include the intimate Tented Camp as well as the exclusive-use Royal Zulu Private Villa, perfect for small group bookings.

Relaxation facilities include a lounge, library, dining room, large boma, dining deck, wine cellar, cigar bar, fully equipped business centre and viewing decks overlooking tranquil water features. In addition, Thanda’s award-winning Wellness Centre features signature treatments that draw inspiration from the Zulu culture. For an insight into tribal customs and traditions, Vula Zulu is an authentic homestead adjacent to Thanda and showcases traditional Zulu warriors performing age-old dancing rites. Guests are invited to taste traditional Zulu beer, observe spear combat methods, and watch as women weave baskets and create intricate bead accessories.

Thanda’s tagline, ‘for the love of nature, wildlife and dear ones’, underlines the responsibility to the community that underpins the reserve’s working philosophy.