UMkhuze Game Reserve, Game reserve in northern Zululand, South Africa
uMkhuze Game Reserve is a 40,000-hectare protected area in northern Zululand with varied habitats for wildlife. The landscape includes acacia savannas, wetlands, woodlands, riverine forests, and hills that rise toward the Lebombo Mountains.
The reserve became a protected area in 1912 and was later incorporated into iSimangaliso Wetland Park, which received UNESCO World Heritage status. This designation ensures long-term protection of the region and its ecosystems.
The KwaJobe community within the reserve practices and shares traditional Zulu crafts and daily customs with visitors. This living culture offers insight into how local people maintain their heritage through everyday activities.
Four observation hides positioned near water sources offer good opportunities to watch wildlife including elephants, rhinoceros, giraffes, and more than 420 bird species. Early morning and late afternoon visits provide the best chances for animal sightings when creatures are most active.
A 1,400-hectare forest of wild fig trees lines the Mkhuze River, with some reaching 25 meters (82 feet) in height. This dense canopy creates a unique ecosystem where specialized animal and plant species thrive in the shade of these ancient giants.
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