Staying at Bonamanzi Game Reserve in South Africa

After spending so many months in London without a break, I almost forgot how it felt to be free from the everyday. The everyday sounds of busyness, smell of exhaust from public transport, the feeling of being trapped in the hustle.

We drove up to the Bonamanzi Game Reserve in Hluhluwe after flying into Durban from London early morning after breakfast overlooking the Indian ocean. As we got closer and closer to Bonamanzi, the streets became more and more dense with vegetation. I advise getting a driver for the morning after if your fight arrives into Durban late. There are plenty of animal crossings that it is considered dangerous for both you and the animals! Also, this is a great way to stop by any of the fruit stands on the way and pick up fresh, vibrant, sweet fruit!

As we arrived, the sweet hello’s and exchange of smiles and smirks commenced at Bonamanzi Game Reserve!

Bonamanzi Game Reserve is truly well taken care of and you wouldn’t even know you’re staying on a game reserve with so much land around you. I klooked out into the abyss of raw earth and forced myself to stop thinking. To think that just on the other side of the world there was a place that I came from where everything felt like pure mayhem. It was a beautiful experience and I would do it again and again if I could! There were lots of wildlife, the game reserve was well taken care of, and the service was amazing. It felt like we were home, to be completely honest with you!

Activities at Bonamanzi Game Reserve

There are plenty of activies available to do depending on the type of traveler you are! Here were our highlights.

• Guided walks are fun if you’re looking to learn more about the flora and fauna.
• Game drives with Champagne are so fun! You’ll see lot of different wildlife and the best is stopping in the middle to have champagne and biltong. We did the game drive a few times because you’ll see different animals. The best part is that the Bonamanzi Game Reserve’s person
• Nightime game drives are a whole other experience. Animals really come to life and I suggest doing this.

Tips for Enjoying the Bonamanzi Game Reserve

• You’ll get the basics and that’s really it. Make sure to take your own toiletries, but I think that might depend on the type of lodging you’re staying in.
• We were in the Tree Lodge! Call for a car a little ahead of the game as it might take time to get to you if you’re trying to get to the main reception from where you’re staying.
• I personally think a 2 night stay is more than enough!
• Get out as much as possible! Make a bucket list of what you want to do and let it include things like “watch the sunset” as it is magical.
• After talking to some frequent travelers to Bonamanzi Game Reserve and others in South Africa, a minimum tip for a good serve would be about R100 for game drivers from each guest and the same for general staff, per day you stay. So if I stayed 2 days, I would tip a minimum of R200 for my game drive and R200 for staff.