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Trusted by 15000+ customers
Babanango Zulu Rock Lodge
Trusted by 15000+ customers
Select your dates to reserve
from R8,280
/ for 2 guests
WiFI
Bath
Safe
Patio
Fireplace
Aircon from R10,710
/ for 2 guests
WiFI Bath Patio
Private Plunge Pool Fireplace Aircon from R8,910
/ for 2 guests
WiFI Bath Safe Patio Fireplace Aircon from R15,170
/ per unit, sleeps 6
WiFI Patio Private Plunge Pool Fireplace
Kitchenette Aircon 
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Accommodation Description
Perched on a vantage point within the Babanango Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal, Zulu Rock Lodge offers an intimate safari retreat. The lodge features six luxurious free-standing villa-style suites and a family villa, accommodating a maximum of 16 guests. The uniqueness of Zulu Rock Lodge lies in its unparalleled views, as it overlooks the vast landscape from the edge of a mountain cliff. Crafted for an intimate and serene experience, Zulu Rock Lodge allows guests to connect seamlessly with nature. The absence of fences enhances the beautiful views and exhilarating wildlife encounters.
From the elevated pool, guests can enjoy the vistas of the valley, while the lodge's wine cellar, thoughtfully curated with exquisite wines, complements the culinary offerings enjoyed beneath the open sky or indoors. During the winter months, the fireplace lounge provides a cosy retreat, where the comforting warmth and enchanting crackle of flames enhance delightful conversations with fellow guests.
Setting Description
Located in the heart of Zululand in South Africa, Babanango Game Reserve stands as a testament to one of the most ambitious rewilding projects in recent years. This conservation marvel is located within the breathtaking topography of the upper White Umfolozi River Valley, spanning over 20,000 hectares. Steeped in Zulu history and layered upon geological features dating back to the beginning of time, the reserve is a showcase for the successful rewilding efforts in the region.
The rugged mountains and valleys of Babanango Game Reserve provide refuge for an extraordinary diversity of birds, plants, insects, reptiles, and mammals, including the elusive aardvark and aardwolf. With the recent return of the African elephant, the reserve proudly claims its Big Five status. Visitors can embark on an unrivalled safari experience, guided by highly knowledgeable guides who navigate the expansive wilderness. Beyond the wildlife encounters, the reserve holds historical significance, with notable battle sites like Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift located close by. This adds a layer of cultural richness to the safari experience, allowing guests to delve into the storied past of the region.
Activities
Game Drives
Walking Safari
Battlefield Tours
Bush Lunch
Reviews
L. Bell
Stayed at: Babanango Zulu Rock Lodge
Wonderful stay
The property was absolutely incredible, with such friendly staff and an amazing guide. The housekeeping was outstanding.
K. Rowe
Stayed at: Babanango Zulu Rock Lodge
Luxurious and comfortable
Amazing views. The accommodation was so luxurious and comfortable. Super pleasant dedicated and friendly staff. We loved having a fireplace inside the room.
L. Bell
Stayed at: Babanango Zulu Rock Lodge
Wonderful stay
The property was absolutely incredible, with such friendly staff and an amazing guide. The housekeeping was outstanding.
K. Rowe
Stayed at: Babanango Zulu Rock Lodge
Luxurious and comfortable
Amazing views. The accommodation was so luxurious and comfortable. Super pleasant dedicated and friendly staff. We loved having a fireplace inside the room.
Location
R34, (Between Vryheid and Ulundi), Vryheid and Ulundi, 3100
How to get there
DIRECTIONS FROM KING SHAKA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
There will be three toll gates on the way which require cash or a credit card. The fee ranges from ZAR15.50 to ZAR44.00.
From King Shaka, merge onto the N2 Kwadukuza towards Tongaat and travel 79km.
Take Exit 277 (the Gingindlovu turnoff) for the R66, continue for 800m then turn left onto the R66 towards Gingindlovu/Eshowe/Ulundi.
Travel for 103km passing through Melmoth town Please ignore all signs referring to Babanango Town Continue on the R66 until you merge onto the R34, towards Vryheid. Continue for 41km.
Look out for the Babanango Game Reserve sign on your left. Enjoy your stay!
[Dirt road access. 4x4 not required]
Please adhere to the speed limits as there are many speed traps along the way. Please also be aware that a large portion of the roads are regional roads and you maybe drive past many cows and goats whom can walk across the road at any given time.
ESTIMATED DRIVING TIME: 3 HOURS 30 MINS
TOTAL DISTANCE: 228KM
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DIRECTIONS FROM CENTRAL JOHANNESBURG
There will be three toll gates on the way which require cash or a credit card. The fee ranges from ZAR300 to ZAR350.
Take the N3 south out of Johannesburg for about 150km. After you pass through Villiers, take Exit 133 and turn left onto the R34 towards Vrede. After 13km, turn right onto the R103, then after 15km turn left onto the R34. Travel for 13.5km to get to Vrede,
then turn right to stay on the R34. After 89km, turn left and then continue straight for 12km until you come to the N11. Turn right onto the N11 and continue for 1.2km, then turn left on to the R34 towards Utrecht. After 75.6km, turn left onto the R33/R34 and proceed for 23km. Turn right onto the R34 and proceed for 6km, and then turn right again to stay on the R34. After 57km, look out for the Babanango Game Reserve sign on your right. Enjoy your stay!
[Dirt road access. 4x4 not required]
Please adhere to the speed limits as there are many speed traps along the way. Please also be aware that a large portion of the roads are regional roads and you maybe drive past many cows and goats whom can walk across the road at any given time.
ESTIMATED DRIVING TIME: 6 HOURS
TOTAL DISTANCE: 455KM
Frequently asked questions
Yes, the Big Five can be spotted at the game reserve.
Children 8 years and over are permitted at this lodge. Ensure that children are not left unattended and respect the privacy of other guests.
No, Zulu Rock Lodge is located in a malaria-free zone.
Yes, the conservation levies are payable at the lodge directly on arrival.
