Umkhumbi (Red Duiker) Lodge is situated in the heart of Zululand in KwaZulu-Natal and is ideal for those seeking a truly relaxing experience. It is also a fantastic base from which to explore this diverse region.
Family owned and run, Umkhumbi Lodge is the latest venture of hosts Emma and Anton Roberts. Having been in the safari and tourism industry for the past 15 years doing guided safaris all over Southern Africa, the couple decided to build a lodge in the heart of the region they know best.
Umkhumbi is a luxury lodge comprising just six units with comfortable and spacious air-conditioned rooms, all nestled in the African bush. Each lodge has two rooms, each with full en-suite bathrooms and interleading doors, making them perfect for family groups.
The central lapa is the gathering place for meals, drinks and relaxing. It is ideal for sundowners followed by languid evenings swopping stories around the fire with the other guests and guides. Anton, with his vast bush experience and involvement with international TV productions such as Survivorman and Venom Hunter, will delight you with stories.
The focus at Umkhumbi is on conservation through eco-tourism and delighting guests with the often-overlooked “small stuff”.
Within close proximity you can explore the world-famous Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve either with one of the lodge’s game drive vehicles or self drive. Mkhuze Game Reserve, Sodwana Bay and False Bay Park are all under an hour’s drive from Umkhumbi Lodge.
As part of the guest experience, you can explore further south, with St Lucia Kayak Safaris in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park offering guests an insight into the wonders of the southern part of lake St Lucia, Catalina Bay and Cape Vidal. The less adventurous can take boat cruises on the lake and game drives on the Eastern Shores of the wetland park.
Other attractions, within an hour away, include the Zulu Croc Reptile Park, the cheetah rehabilitation facility, elephant interaction, Tiger fishing at Jozini and flights over the area. - Sunday Tribune
• Visit www.umkhumbilodge.co.za to find out more