Tala Game Res, Lion Park & Phezulu Full Day Tour From Durban

If you’re heading to Durban and craving a taste of South Africa’s vibrant wildlife, this full-day tour offers a balanced mix of safari excitement and cultural experiences. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive wildlife adventure without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. From stunning game drives to observing lions and elephants, and even exploring a reptile park, it promises a day filled with memorable encounters.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the luxurious setting of Tala Game Reserve, providing a scenic backdrop for spotting giraffes, rhinos, and kudus. Second, the up-close wildlife viewing at Natal Lion Park, where lions and elephants roam just a short drive away from Durban. Lastly, the visit to Phezulu Safari Park, offering not only a reptile park but also a touch of local culture with optional traditional dance performances.

A potential downside? The tour’s packed schedule means you’ll be on the move most of the day, which might feel rushed if you’re seeking a more relaxed experience. Also, some activities like the game drive and cultural dances at Phezulu are optional extras, so if you want the full culture or additional safaris, expect to pay extra.

This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, culture curious travelers, or families wanting a full day of adventure. If you’re eager to see South Africa’s iconic animals in a safari setting but prefer a guided, well-organized day, this experience offers fantastic value.

Contents show

Key Points

Balanced itinerary includes game drives, a reptile park, and cultural activities.
Wildlife diversity with over 380 bird species, rhinos, giraffes, lions, and elephants.
Comfortable transport with hotel pickups and drop-offs included.
Flexible options for cultural dances and additional game drives at Phezulu.
Educational and fun with opportunities to learn about local flora and fauna.
Cost-effectiveness considering the multiple stops and activities packed into one day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting the Day: Pickup and Departure

The tour kicks off early, with pickups from Durban hotels, the airport, or ports around 7:30am. This makes it suitable for travelers with tight schedules or those looking to maximize their daylight hours. Once onboard, the comfortable transport ensures a smooth journey to your first destination.

The group sizes tend to be moderate, allowing for a more personalized experience, and the English-speaking guides are well-versed in local wildlife, flora, and cultural stories—a bonus for those seeking more than just photos.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Durban

Exploring Tala Game Reserve

The first highlight is Tala Game Reserve, where you’ll do a 4×4 game drive. This reserve is known for its lush landscapes and diverse birdlife, boasting over 380 bird species. The terrain is a delightful mix of acacia thornveld, open grassland, and wetlands, providing excellent sightings and photography opportunities.

During the drive, you’ll encounter big game like rhinoceros, kudu, and hippos, along with giraffes browsing at eye level and elusive antelopes such as the rare Sable. Many reviews highlight the serene, picture-perfect scenery that makes game viewing so rewarding. One review mentioned that the landscape “feels like a painting,” with some guests even spotting a fiery aloe bloom amidst the wildlife.

The guides are praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, often pointing out interesting plant species like the Euphorbia or fragrant Wild Sage, adding an educational element to the safari. For bird lovers, spotting species like the Yellow Billed Kite or the Long Crested Eagle is a bonus.

Natal Lion Park: Lions and Elephants Close Up

After lunch, the tour heads to the Natal Lion Park, roughly 30 minutes away. This park is especially notable for its African lions and elephants, which are kept in lush, naturalistic enclosures. Reviews frequently mention how accessible and up-close the animal viewing is here, with many noting the spectacle of lions resting or prowling within view.

The park also houses baboons, impala, and nyala, making it a well-rounded safari destination. Visitors appreciate the cleanliness and spaciousness of the enclosures, as well as the informative guides who share insights about animal behavior and conservation efforts.

Of particular interest is the park’s collection of bird species, including the Crowned Eagle and the Barn Owl, adding to the overall biodiversity experience. Guests often comment that “seeing the elephants and lions together gave a real sense of the African wilderness,” emphasizing the park’s authenticity.

Note: The game drive in Phezulu Safari Park is optional and not included in the basic tour price, but if you opt for it, you’ll enjoy a different perspective of wildlife and landscapes.

Phezulu Safari Park and Reptile Encounters

In the late afternoon, the tour moves to Phezulu Safari Park. Here, the highlight is the Reptile Park, where you can observe crocodiles sunbathing and marvel at a variety of venomous and non-venomous snakes. Many visitors find the reptile park both educational and slightly thrilling, especially if you’re afraid of snakes but want to see them up close.

Beyond reptiles, Phezulu offers optional activities such as a game drive through the park’s lush terrain and a chance to watch traditional African dances—though these are extra costs. The park’s location in a lush setting offers scenic views and an authentic taste of local culture, with some reviews mentioning the lively dance performances as a highlight.

The reptile park, in particular, is praised for its well-maintained enclosures and informative guides, who help demystify the animals’ behaviors and ecological roles. It’s a great add-on for families or those with an interest in herpetology.

More Great Tours Nearby

Returning to Durban

By late afternoon, the tour wraps up and heads back to Durban, arriving around 7 PM. This return time makes it feasible for travelers to plan dinner or evening activities afterward. The transport is comfortable, and the guides are often praised for their friendly demeanor and local knowledge.

There's plenty more to explore in Durban

Overall Value and Experience

For $207 per person, this tour packs in a significant amount of wildlife observation, cultural exposure, and scenic beauty. The multiple stops and inclusion of hotel pickups make it a practical choice for visitors staying in Durban, especially those wanting a comprehensive day without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.

While some activities—like the cultural dances and additional game drives—are optional extras, the core experience of witnessing big game and birdlife in naturalistic settings** provides solid value. The guides’ expertise and the quality of the reserves help justify the price, especially given the diversity of wildlife and landscapes covered.

This tour is particularly suited for families, first-time safaris, or wildlife enthusiasts eager to tick off several key experiences in one day. The early start and packed schedule suit those with an adventurous spirit and a desire to maximize their time in KwaZulu-Natal.

This full-day tour from Durban offers a well-rounded glimpse into South Africa’s rich wildlife and cultural tapestry, all in a comfortably organized package. The blend of game drives, reptile encounters, and cultural elements ensures a diverse experience that appeals to a wide range of travelers.

You’ll especially enjoy the opportunity to see lions, elephants, and rhinos in naturalistic environments, complemented by birdwatching and educational insights. The scenic landscapes and friendly guides make it a memorable outing, perfect for those with limited time but big wildlife dreams.

While it’s a busy day, the variety and quality of experiences make the price worthwhile. Whether you’re a wildlife fanatic or just looking for a fun, educational day out, this tour delivers genuine value and authentic sights of South Africa’s incredible fauna.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The pickup is generally at 7:30am, allowing you to make the most of your day exploring wildlife and culture.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour provides pickup and drop-off from Durban hotels, the airport, and ports.

What are the main activities?
You’ll enjoy game drives in Tala Game Reserve and Natal Lion Park, a visit to the Reptile Park at Phezulu Safari Park, with optional extra activities like traditional dances and additional game drives.

How long is the total tour?
The tour runs from early morning until late afternoon, roughly 11-12 hours including travel and activities.

Are meals included?
The tour price does not include meals, but there are stops for lunch, typically at local eateries or picnic spots.

Can I see specific animals?
Yes, you may see giraffes, kudus, rhinos, lions, elephants, and various bird species, depending on luck and animal activity.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, especially for families eager for an educational and fun wildlife experience.

Do I need to pay extra for optional activities?
Yes, activities like the cultural dances and additional game drives at Phezulu are available for extra fees.

This tour strikes a nice balance between wildlife, scenery, and cultural elements, making it an engaging, value-packed choice for a day outside Durban.