Bushlands Road,
Hluhluwe,
South Africa,
KwaZulu-Natal
-
Near a wildlife park
8.9
/10
4.3
/5
Loved by guests
Amazing staff
Spotlessly clean amenities
Well-kept roads
Private campsite
Easy walking routes
"This reserve is a birdwatcher's delight!"
sharonT4416TD from South Africa
read full review
"Great viewings of birds, buffalo, elephant and plains animals."
gael597
read full review
"Private campsite is a special gem of a place to be."
Passenger18794746316
read full review
Bonamanzi Game Reserve is a privately-owned Big-4 game reserve with the Hluhluwe River forming the Eastern border. This 3-star reserve offers an array of accommodation options and is recognized as one of the best birding destinations in Southern Africa with over 426 species.
Diverse Accommodation Options
Bonamanzi Game Reserve accommodation ranges from air-conditioned Lalapanzi Deluxe Chalets with satellite TV to self-catering Tree Houses built on stilts. Each unit contains either a king bed or single beds with en-suite bathrooms, while the Family Tree Houses can accommodate 2 adults and 2 children across two levels.
Scenic Dining Experience
The elegant Lalapanzi Restaurant features an outdoor bar next to a fire pit and tables extending into gardens under a massive tree. A viewing deck overlooks the Lalapanzi Dam where guests can relax and watch the sunset, making it an ideal place for family meals.
Wildlife Adventure Activities
Guests can traverse the wilderness in custom-built open vehicles for twilight game drives or experience the Hluhluwe river on guided two-hour tours. The reserve offers interactive bush experiences including guided walks, boat cruises with knowledgeable guides, and evening entertainment with Zulu dancing extravaganzas.
Strategic Conservation Location
Located 40 km from Phinda, Bonamanzi provides access to the Hluhluwe/Imfolozi Big Five Reserve within a 30-minute drive. The Isimangaliso Wetland Park is accessible via the Ndlozi Gate, also just 30 minutes away.
Must-do experiences
Embark on a sunset game drive for stunning wildlife sights.
Savor boerewors at the local market for a true taste of South Africa.
Visit Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, home to the Big Five and rich landscapes.
Try the local biltong from shops in Hluhluwe for an authentic snack.
Explore the Zuluultural village for a glimpse of local traditions.
View all
We are looking for rooms with better price.
Looks like there are no rooms available in this hotel for your dates.
You can check other available hotels or try other dates.
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
Location
Bushlands Road,
Hluhluwe,
South Africa,
KwaZulu-Natal
Map view
Bushlands Road,
Hluhluwe,
South Africa,
KwaZulu-Natal
City landmarks
Landmark
Crocodylus Private Sanctuary and Ostrich Farm
3.8
km
Landmark
Bonamanzi Game Reserve
4.6
km
Landmark
Kuleni Game Park
4.6
km
Landmark
Zulu Croc Reptile Park
4.9
km
Landmark
Tunga Needlework Studio
4.9
km
Landmark
Super Spar Food Store
5.0
km
Nearby
Bonamanzi Private Game Reserve
290 m
Explore Hluhluwe
Explore Local Attractions
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Bonamanzi Private Game Reserve
7 minutes walking
A wildlife sanctuary featuring diverse African animals and guided eco-safaris for an immersive experience.
Crocodylus Private Sanctuary and Ostrich Farm
10 minutes drive
An interactive facility allowing close encounters with crocodiles and ostriches, offering guided tours and educational exhibits.
Zulu Croc Reptile Park
10 minutes drive
Showcasing a variety of reptiles, this park offers visitors lively displays and educational sessions about these creatures.
Kuleni Game Park
10 minutes drive
A private game park where guests can enjoy guided drives and self-guided walks amid rich wildlife and scenic landscapes.
Eco-Safaris
7 minutes walking
Guided eco-safaris at Bonamanzi offer wildlife sightings in natural settings, ideal for nature lovers and families.
Game Drives
10 minutes drive
Join guided game drives in nearby reserves for thrilling wildlife encounters, typically lasting about two to three hours.
Craft and Cultural Markets
10 minutes drive
Visit local markets showcasing crafts and foods, allowing guests to experience Zulu culture and support artisans.
Spa Treatments
10 minutes drive
Relaxing spa services at nearby facilities offer rejuvenating treatments, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
The Bush Restaurant
10 minutes drive
Offers local and international dishes in a rustic-chic setting, with favorites like game meat specials and fresh salads.
Kfc
10 minutes drive
Fast-food favorite known for fried chicken and quick service, perfect for a casual meal after a day of activities.
Pioneer Lodge Restaurant
10 minutes drive
A family-friendly venue serving comfort food and local delicacies with an inviting outdoor seating area.
Hosts various cultural events and local performances, providing family-friendly entertainment options throughout the year.
Local Bars and Pubs
10 minutes drive
Lively spots for enjoying local brews, often featuring live music and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for social evenings.
Bushveld Nightlife
10 minutes drive
Experience exciting nightlife with seasonal events like jazz nights and dance clubs, catering to all ages for fun evenings.
Getting around
City Centre
Hluhluwe35 min
 ·Â
2.9
km
Airports
Phinda (PZL)60 min
 ·Â
39.7
km
Richards Bay (RCB)140 min
 ·Â
93.3
km
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback from previous guests about their experience.
Guest reviews
5.0/10
based on 5 reviews
Victor
United Kingdom,
FebruaryÂ
2025
6.8/10
My stay at Bonamanzi was a unique experience. the grounds were incredibly beautiful, bursting with wildlife. I loved the laid-back atmosphere and the chance to appreciate the natural surroundings. However, there were some hiccups, particularly with the dining options and some aspects of service that could be improved.
Rooms
8.0
I stayed in a tree house that was perfect for my needs. it was close to the main restaurant and well-kept. I found the bedding comfortable, which was important for a good night's sleep.
Service
7.0
The service was decent, though there is definitely room for improvement. sometimes I felt like things could be a bit more organized.
Location
8.0
The reserve is situated in a lovely area of Zululand. being near Hluhluwe offered great access to the natural beauty of the region.
Dining
6.0
The dining experience had its ups and downs. while the meals were tasty, I found the prices a bit steep, and the portions could be reduced.
Facilities
6.0
The facilities were generally good, with clean environments and essential services available. I did have some issues with the condition of the tap water, though.
Georgia
United Kingdom,
JanuaryÂ
2025
6.4/10
Bonamanzi Game Reserve offered a beautiful backdrop for my recent getaway, with well-kept accommodations and an informative game drive that added to my experience. However, there were some service hiccups, particularly with the restaurant reservations and a maintenance issue that needed addressing. Overall, it was nice, but improvements could enhance the stay further. 🌿🦓
Rooms
10.0
The room was clean, featuring two single beds joined to form a king bed, providing comfort for my stay.
Service
6.0
While the reception staff was friendly and professional, I faced challenges during my visit, including a misunderstanding with restaurant reservations that dampened my dining experience.
Location
10.0
The reserve's setting was stunning, located on the main dam, allowing for beautiful views and easy access to other park areas.
Dining
5.0
The dining experience was just okay overall, and my planned dining at the restaurant did not go as smoothly as expected due to miscommunication.
Facilities
6.0
The facilities were generally good and clean, but I encountered a maintenance issue with the power supply that marred my overall experience.
Jade
United Kingdom,
JanuaryÂ
2025
6.4/10
I had a wonderful holiday at Bonamanzi Game Reserve. The peace and beauty of the area were simply magical, though I didn't get to see the big four during my stay. The staff was exceptionally friendly and kept everything well-maintained, making it a lovely experience overall.
Rooms
10.0
I enjoyed a comfortable king bed, which was kept clean throughout my stay.
Service
10.0
The staff were very friendly and helpful, and they made my stay even more enjoyable.
Location
8.0
The scenery along the river was beautiful, but it was a bit frustrating to only have access to heavily forested areas.
Dining
9.0
I loved the gourmet sandwiches offered, which were a treat after a day of exploring.
Facilities
10.0
The facilities were well-kept, including the clean pool and private camping amenities.
Jennifer
United Kingdom,
NovemberÂ
2024
5.6/10
I enjoyed my stay with comfortable and clean accommodations, though the air conditioner was a bit of a hassle as it blew directly on my head all night. The meals were decent but felt somewhat overpriced for what was offered. However, the lovely evening on the veranda and witnessing a Nyala doe give birth made my experience quite special.
Rooms
6.0
The room was kept clean and had adequate facilities, including two single beds put together to form a king bed.
Service
6.0
The reception was friendly and professional, making me feel welcomed upon arrival.
Location
8.0
The location by the river was stunning, providing a beautiful setting for relaxation and exploration.
Dining
6.0
The quality of the meals was average, and I found the pricing to be a bit high for what was served.
Facilities
6.0
The facilities were generally adequate, although some aspects fell short of expectations.
Evelyn
United Kingdom,
NovemberÂ
2024
5.4/10
My stay at Bonamanzi Game Reserve was a refreshing escape into nature. The scenery was beautiful and I enjoyed spotting a variety of antelopes, zebras, and even a couple of giraffes and buffalos. However, I missed seeing some of the larger animals like elephants and leopards. Overall, it was a very relaxing experience, perfect for a weekend getaway.
Rooms
8.0
I had a comfortable room with two single beds put together, and the cleanliness was great. The bedding was well-maintained and added to the overall comfort of my stay.
Service
10.0
The staff at Bonamanzi were incredibly friendly and provided sincere hospitality that made me feel welcome throughout my visit. Their assistance was commendable, enhancing my overall experience.
Location
8.0
Located on a small island in the main dam of the Hluhluwe national park, the setting was beautifully immersive. I did find it a bit frustrating at times to only have access to the heavily forested areas, but it still felt authentic and serene.
Dining
10.0
I enjoyed the meals offered during my stay. The food was delicious and provided a great dining experience, complementing the overall relaxation of my trip.
Facilities
8.0
The facilities were well-kept and suited to my needs, providing a good base to explore the area. I appreciated the options available, even if I didn't use all of them.
Curious about the exclusive early booking rate?
Don’t wait—secure exclusive rates right now!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:59
Check-out
until 10 am
Number of rooms:
51
FAQs
About Bonamanzi Game Reserve
What is the distance from Bonamanzi Game Reserve to the center of Hluhluwe?
The hotel is located 3 km from the center of Hluhluwe.
What notable attractions are near Bonamanzi Game Reserve?
Nearby attractions include Hluhluwe/Imfolozi Big Five Reserve (11 km), Phinda Game Reserve (40 km), and iSimangaliso Wetland Park (44 km).
What on-site dining options does Bonamanzi Game Reserve provide?
The hotel features the Lalapanzi Restaurant with an outdoor bar and seating overlooking the dam.
Is there a swimming pool available at Bonamanzi Game Reserve?
The hotel includes a communal pool for guests to enjoy.
What amenities are included in the rooms at Bonamanzi Game Reserve?
Rooms at the hotel feature air conditioning, a TV, and tea and coffee-making facilities.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Bonamanzi Game Reserve?
Check-in is from 14:00 and check-out is by 10:00.
Does Bonamanzi Game Reserve offer babysitting services?
The hotel provides babysitting services, including paid child care for guests traveling with children.
What transport options are available for Bonamanzi Game Reserve guests arriving at Phinda Airport?
Guests can expect approximately a 53-minute drive from Phinda Airport to the hotel.
Are there self-catering options available at Bonamanzi Game Reserve?
The hotel offers self-catering accommodations including fully equipped lodges and tree houses.
What recreational activities can guests partake in at Bonamanzi Game Reserve?
Guests can enjoy guided game drives, boat trips on the Hluhluwe River, and interactive Zulu dancing experiences.