Thula Thula Game Lodge

We are no stranger to safaris. This was our third trip and we booked it after a fancy-schmancy 5 star safari in Botswana and Zimbabwe. I had read all the books and was fascinated with the story behind Thula Thula. While it isn't one of those over the top luxury hotels, it is heaven. It feels so authentic and a little like old world Africa. We stayed one night in one of the suites (upgraded due to a plumbing problem in our cabin and it was wonderful). The food was delightful. The staff is superb. Our guide Kahya could spot a termite from a 100 yards away. The elephants act like no others we've seen. Our only disappointment was in not meeting Francois. I just sent a request for a reservation for next year and hoping she'll be on property.

What can I say that other reviewers haven't already said? Thula Thula is AMAZING. We booked "The Best of Both Worlds" and from the start of our planning process the staff were responsive and professional, and when we arrived, our week exceeded everything we could have imagined. The two nights in the tented camp were fun and we enjoyed communal dining with other guests. Waking up and hearing the birds, seeing the sun rise, and having nyalas grazing steps from our door was a peaceful time. And the 4 nights in the Elephant Safari Lodge were extraordinary. The rooms were comfortable, the food was outstanding, and the staff were friendly and service impeccable. We adored our guide, Muzie, who went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable on the 2 a day game rides, and who told us so much about the animals. We had 3 additional excursions added to our package, and Thula Thula arranged the transport to them (all reviewed separately). This week will be one of our best travel memories ever. I can't say enough about the joy of seeing the elephants, zebras, rhinos, giraffes, and all the other wonderful wildlife at this magical place.

Thula Thula is paradise, its elephants are unique it’s a life experience like no other. I did not want to leave Thula Thula, it brings you peace and tranquility. Francois’s team makes you feel at home fantastically well run game reserve. The staff are caring, they treat you like family, the food is excellent. The daily game drives leave you with memories that will last a life time. I hope to return soon.

We loved absolutely everything about the accommodation, the game drives and excellent game ranger (Khaya) and we can't say enough about all the staff who were wonderful. "Meeting" the elephants talked about in the books was so moving and one we'll never forget. It was a truly magical experience.

We did the 6 night package and stayed in tented camp. The tents are nice midrange accommodation. The lodge is tired, the food in tented camp is mediocre and the service is indifferent. We opted for private game drives because of loud obnoxious other party at lodge and our guide was lovely. This was not the camps fault but they did nothing to quiet things. The food is far superior ( if you tend toward French cuisine) at the lodge but the rooms are also tired and very small if you happen to book a single. It's not easy to combine this lodge with others but if you've read the book and want to experience the elephants it's worth it for max 3 nights. In hindsight I'd stay at lodge 3 nights and book as fabulous tented experience elsewhere.

As I'm rather ancient, I've managed to visit many Game Reserves in South Africa and Botswana. Thula Thula is my new favourite. Why?? It's not pretentious, but it offers every comfort any fussy traveller could want. (including memory foam and soft pillows!) Just over 2 hours drive from Durban. The staff are first class. As is the food.....and everything else. Khaya was our guide and made our visit with his charm, knowledge and excellent English. I could go on and on...but as this is not an overpriced Game Reserve, I suggest you book. Tell me if I'm wrong......

If you are looking for a safari to South Africa this is the palce you need to visit. Me, my wife and friends recently stayed there three nights. Unfortunately, we were on a world cruise and four days and three nights was the only time we could fir into our itinerary. But we hope some day to return. Andrew, our game guide, was extremely knowledgeable about the animals and very willing to share his knowledge and experiences. the staff worked hard to make our experience a great one snf they far exceeeded our expectations. On the days we toured other nearby preserves the staff always sent us off with a packed breakfast or lunch depending on our tour. The hospitality was guinuine and sincere. It was a truly great experience. One none of us will ever forget!

WOW! Amazing staff, animals, peaceful surroundings, and delicious food. What more could one dream of? A wonderful private Lodge and game reserve. Starting with seven rescued elephants now 28 that give you a different show every day. Elephants, Rhinos, Hippos, Buffaloes, Wildebeest, giraffes, zebras and more. The only thing I didn’t see were any mosquitoes or snakes. Our game drives with Siya were both fun and educational. Siya is a wealth of knowledge. He knows all 28 of the elephants by name and personality. We were able to have several of the animals within touching distance. He knows not only the animals, but also the plants, birds and the history of the reserve. Gourmet food at a game lodge in the bush, absolutely. So good with choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner that will satisfy the sophisticated palate. Hats off the the chef and the absolutely delightful wait staff. My only regret was that we were only there 5 nights. Thanks Thula Thula for a vacation of a lifetime. We will be back.

I have been on many safaris in many different Africa countries ... loving them all ... but THULA THULA was unlike anything I had ever experienced. I read the books by Lawrence and Francoise Malby-Anthony and came to this place very excited to see the animals. With Cenzo as our guide I got so much more than a sighting of the animals. Sharing his knowledge and taking such time, I was able to truly be IN the moment - IN the landscape -I got to learn about and observe the animals, the birds and all the flora and fauna -all with time. We were never rushed. Every staff member - the bartender, all the kitchen staff, those who looked after our rooms were wonderful people - never without smiles. Francoise was such a gracious host and the meals - just fabulous. The travelers I met were just a delight too - all brought together by the books and wanting to be IN this magical place. I will be back.