Welcome – Thanda Private Game Reserve

Open your mind to the spiritual culture of rhythmic dance, colourful beadwork and intricate reed creations as the descendants of King Shaka share ancient tales of the powerful Zulu people.

The Zulu nation rose to its most triumphant during the reign of Shaka kaSenzangakhona (Shaka, son of kaSenzagakhona) who gave his people the name ‘Zulu’. The word Zulu refers to sky, lightning or heaven, natural elements of the highest standing.

Thanda Private Game Reserve welcomes you to a first-hand experience of ‘heaven on earth’.

Situated 23-kilometres north of Hluhluwe in Zululand, South Africa, Thanda Private Game Reserve is a celebration of the Zulu nation and their vibrant cultural tapestry. Located in the heart of the Elephant Coast, Thanda offers guests the Big Seven game experience encasing the illustrious Big Five within its 14,000 hectare borders. Its close proximity to the Indian Ocean ensures a balmy climate throughout the year and safely establishes Thanda as a utopian bush and beach luxury travel destination. Thanda, meaning ‘love’ in Zulu, embraces the philosophy ‘for the love of nature, wildlife and dear ones’. The only private game reserve to hold exclusive membership with The Leading Hotels of the World, Thanda’s superlative facilities include a decadent main lodge, authentic safari-style tented camp and award-winning wellness centre.