Mkhuze Game Reserve

The Mkhuze Game Reserve (sometimes spelled Mkuze) is a major part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park to the west of Sodwana Bay connected by a narrow strip of land surrounding the Mkhuze River before it enters Lake St Lucia and bounded by the Lebombo Mountains to the west. Although it is rich in mammalian wildlife it is most notable for spectacular bird life (over 430 species) and beautiful landscapes. This varies from seasonal flood plains of the Muzi Pans with water lilies, reed beds and swamps to savannah. To the south of the Mkuze River are towering fig forests, home to trumpeter hornbills. Several hides have been erected at artificial waterholes and on the edge of the pans and here are some of the best and most relaxing ways to view the wildlife. One of Africa’s most colourful birds, the lilac-breasted roller may be spotted together with pelicans, flamingos and kingfishers. Big cats are elusive and there are no lions, but black and white rhino are likely sightings as are monkeys and baboons.