Where to Stay
Every captivating tailor-made itinerary needs a perfect base. Our team has handpicked this collection of properties to give you luxury options in styles to suit any adventure.
KwaZulu-Natal
From its subtropical palm-fringed shores, lapped by the Indian Ocean to the mountainous Drakensberg range, KwaZulu-Natal offers a wealth of scenic splendour.
Its green, rolling countryside is reminiscent of England’s shires and the Battlefields echo with history of clashes between the British, Zulus and Boers. Enjoying one of the best year-round climates in the country, the province is easily combined with other areas, although with the Big Five, Battlefields and beaches all on its doorstep, it’s well worth a visit on its own.
Why visit KwaZulu-Natal
- Diverse landscapes from mountain ranges to sandy beaches
- Go on a Big Five safari in some of the best games reserves
- Learn about the infamous Anglo-Boer and Zulu wars in the Battlefields
- Swim in warm Indian Ocean waters and see turtles nesting along the stunning coastline
- Explore the city of Durban, a coastal, cultural and colourful melting pot
- Visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – iSimangaliso (St Lucia) Wetland Park, and uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park
Why Steppes Travel?
Real Expertise
In this video, Illona invites you to look beyond the familiar. Her journey to KwaZulu-Natal reveals a place where culture, history and natural beauty come together. Private reserves offer Big Five safaris without the crowds. Golden beaches and the soaring Drakensberg ranges provide room to roam and take it all in.
Here, you can greet the day on a game drive and end it with your feet in the ocean. This is South Africa, seen differently.
Experiences
Tell us what you love doing and we’ll curate a journey that’s perfect for you.
South Africa
Phinda Mountain Lodge
Perched on a hilltop with uninterrupted mountain views, Phinda Mountain Lodge is the ultimate safari destination in the Phinda Private Game Reserve.
South Africa
Thonga Beach Lodge
Stretching along the azure shores of the Maputuland coast in northern Kwa-Zulu Natal is Thonga Beach Lodge; with no development for over 60 miles up and down the beach, this sanctuary for marine life is unrivalled.
Meet our experts
A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.
Illona Cross
Born in South Africa, I spent a decade working as a ranger, guide and lodge manager in the African bush. That experience taught me the value of well-paced itineraries, trusted local partners and the power of small details – what turns a good trip into a great one. I ask the right questions, listen closely and bring a level of insight that only comes from years in the field.
Talk with our experts
- 01285 880 980
Chris Johnston
I have spent nearly 30 years exploring Africa, from leading trips across the continent to crafting tailor made journeys backed by deep local insight. Named a Condé Nast Traveller Specialist for Madagascar, Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, I’ve worked with the BBC and National Geographic throughout Eastern, Southern and Central Africa.
Talk with our experts
- 01285 880 980
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