I'm going to Johanesburg for a conference in August, and would like to visit Tembe and/or Ndumo parks in Kwazulu Natal, as well as the beach. Has anyone visited these areas? If so, how did you get there? I'm hesitant to rent a car and drive by myself from Jo'burg, but I'm not clear that intercity buses go to these places. Thanks!

Hi Sara,

You might consider one of a number of options. You could take the bus to Durban and rent a car from there. You might take the plane from Johannesburg to Durban and then rent a car at the airport.

Those Reseves and Park are very nice but very expensive, even with the great exchange rate you'll be getting. There are a number of great other parks in the area offering the same wild life experience for a lot less.

When you arrive here you might want to have a word with a tour guide or a porter at the hotel where you'll be staying. If you have any furher questions or you would like for me to see if i can help let me know.

I travel a lot and know some short cuts. I would also be happy to put you in touch with a list of reputable companies that will be able to assist you.

Feel free to send mail to philipma@africon.co.zaphilipma@africon.co.za

I have to disagree with the earlier reply. For what you get, which is just about everything, Tembe is not expensive. I don't know anything about the other reserve you mention. I sell golf tours and am presently thinking seriously of offering Tembe to my visitors there. But Tembe have their own web site complete with cam photos at a watering hole which I - a Canadian - if a bit transplanted right now, find fascinating. Have a look at it. Their URL is http://www.elephantcam.net/tembe-accommodation.htm
If I am not mistaken you will find that for less than US$100.00 a day you get accommodation, game drives, meals and a bunch of other stuff. And if they are anything like the Reserves I am already doing business with, the service is extremely good with trained rangers, top of the line chefs and etc. If you go, let me know what you think - it will be interesting to hear what another North American thinks. One thing's for sure, you certainly picked a great place to visit. Have fun
Karen

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