Romantic getaways in Zululand Game Reserves

Zululand is one of South Africa's most underrated safari regions: Big Five reserves, beautiful lodges and the beaches of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park just down the road.

Private reserves such as Phinda, Thanda and Manyoni have a mix of habitats, from forest to grassland to wetland, which makes for varied game drives. The lodges tend to be small, with private decks and plunge pools, and several offer star beds or bush dinners for two. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, one of Africa's oldest game reserves, is close by.

What makes Zululand special for couples is how easy it is to add a few days at the coast. Lake St Lucia, Sodwana Bay and the lodges near Kosi Bay are all within reach, so you can pair dawn game drives with lazy beach days.

Zululand is a low-risk malaria area; talk to a travel clinic before you go. The dry winter months (May to September) are best for game viewing and the most comfortable for travel.