By Jeff Wicks
Durban - Nestled in a thicket of indigenous sand forest, Umkhumbi Lodge is a gem hidden away in the heart of Zululand.
Umkhumbi, the Zulu word for the native red duiker, is an ideal retreat for holidaymakers and nature enthusiasts seeking a relaxing break in the backwaters of the province.
Centrally placed, Umkhumbi lodge is a model base from which to explore the region and its catalogue of cultural and natural wonders.
Three hours’ drive from King Shaka International Airport, the lodge is accessible by road. A short gravel track weaves its way through lush forest and provides a foretaste of wildlife resident in the region, with red duiker and nyala darting across the path.
Locally owned and run, Umkhumbi Lodge features a scattering of individual cabins which can sleep four. Featuring an inter-leading door between two air-conditioned rooms, the lodges are suited for family outings into Zululand.
Spacious cabins have en-suite bathrooms and balconies that gaze onto clearings of thick forest, and if one is quiet enough, some of the local wildlife can be seen edging their way through the brush.
The cabins, a central lounge and a swimming pool are connected by a pathway etched into the forest. This trail is softly lit at night time by strings of light which guide one along.
More often than not, guests will receive a warm greeting from Umkhumbi’s first citizen Copper, a boisterous Staffordshire terrier.
The bar and bonfire pit are aptly suited for long African evenings spent enjoying sundowners as the fading light burns the top of the tree line to the west, looking onto the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi national park.
Within an hour’s drive of Umkhumbi are the Sodwana Bay and False Bay parks which offer a host of bush trails.
Guided by the lodge’s own eco-wise staff, the trails are a learning experience as the rich region is explored.
While one weaves across the forest floor, African fish eagles call overhead.
Also within travelling distance further south is the picturesque Lake St Lucia where you can take to the water as part of the St Lucia Kayak Safari in the iSimangeliso Wetland Park.
This mode of tour offers guests a water-top perspective of Lake St Lucia, Catalina Bay and Cape Vidal.
As the kayaks slip silently across the water, hippos crane their necks near the shore as guests glide past. Crocodiles basking on the banks of the lake cast cursory glances as the guided water tours pass at a safe distance.
If one is lucky, kayakers can find themselves in the midst of swooping fish eagles plucking fish from the tranquil waters.
l For more information on Umkhumbi Lodge, visit www.umkhumbilodge.co.za. - Sunday Tribune