Itala Game Reserve

Description:

Itala Game Reserve bordering the Pongola River Valley. Surrounded by mountainous thornveld commonly found in northern KwaZulu-Natal. It is 400km from Durban and 500km from Johannesburg reachable by well maintained tarred roads.

Founded in 1972 the Itala Game Reserve covers an area of 296km.

Itala host a spectacular Flora veriety for the visitors to view at close qourters.

Itala Game Reserve is scenically an extremely beautiful area, with six rivers running through the reserve as well as open grasslands, rugged outcrops, valleys and bushveld. Itala Game Reserve has 75 different mammal species, among them black and white rhino, elephant, leopard and cheetah. There are also 320 different kinds of birds, making it a hot spot for birders.

Because of some of the oldest rock formations in the world that are found here, dating back three million years, it makes Itala Game Reserve a much aracteristic and geographical diversity area. Some of the oldest rock formations in the world are found here, dating back three million years.

The reserve is also situated on historic land. It was the setting for many historic events and frontier wars of the 19th and 20th centuries. Early gold mining enterprises blossomed here and great battles from the Anglo-Boer wars were fought close by.

The topography varies from 400 metres above sea level to 1 450 metres above sea level, giving rise to a great diversity of habitats, flora and fauna.

Activities in Itala Game Reserve

Self-guided Walking Trails

The wooded mountainside above Ntshondwe camp invites tourists to enjoy glimpses of the indigenous wildlife while stretching their limbs. Rhino ccasionally enter the camp at night.

Self-guided Auto Trails

A number of well laid out auto trails enable visitors to appreciate aspects of the reserve's fascinating wildlife while enjoying the comfort and privacy of their own vehicles. One is continuously aware of the wide range of habitats which support a large biodiversity of plant, bird and animal life in the reserve.

Day and Night Drives

Guided by well qualified guides, these night drives are conducted in open viewing vehicles and are a popular tourist attraction in the reserve.

Picnic Sites

Picnic sites are situated in several scenic spots which offer spectacular views and are ideal for game watching. These all have barbecue facilities and toilets.

Accommodation in Itala Game Reserve

Itala Game Reserve is geared to cater for the sophisticated international ecotourist and business executive and for large tour groups and family parties.

Itala Game Reserve also has limited facilities for camping in tents where athatched shelter serves as a communal lounge / dining facility.

Also there are some B&B's, Guest Houses and small hotels near the park.