Thanda and Fancourt
A golf estate on par with the best in the world, Fancourt is situated in George on the Garden Route. It is ideally located to base oneself from to discover the Garden Route and all its beautiful charms, from the whale-watching haven of Hermanus, to Knysna renowned for its oysters. Access to Thanda from George is via Johannesburg or Durban. Charter flights are available from Johannesburg to Thanda with Thanda Air, and transfers are available from Durban to Thanda.
Best of KZN: Destinations of distinction
Welcome to a collection of independent, stylish, totally individual and above all owner-driven destinations in the lush, verdant countryside of KwaZulu-Natal. Each destination offers unique and genuine hospitality with great emphasis on the guest’s complete comfort, with attention to all the minute details it takes to create an atmosphere of relaxation, as well as offering exciting and different activities.
Thanda Private Game Reserve is proud to be associated with the following lodges and hotels, and recommends these combinations when travelling to KwaZulu-Natal.
Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse
KwaZulu-Natal’s amazing gourmet getaway is tucked deep in the spectacular Drakensberg Mountains under the shadow of Giant’s Castle. With crystal clear rivers, towering mountains and magnificent scenery, this foodie’s paradise is owned and run by Richard and Mouse Poynton.
If it’s good food you are after- this is the place to be. Cleopatra is fast becoming world-renowned for its innovative menu. The menus change every evening according to the season and availability of local produce. Choose the right bottle of wine from the cellar deep underground.
Fugitive’s Drift
David and Nicky Rattray, pioneers of heritage tourism in South Africa, created award-winning facilities for visitors to savour the extraordinary saga of the Anglo Zulu War.
If one tried to dream up geography and topography for the clash between two great empires, one could hardly come up with a more fantastic scene than these famous battlefields, where the opening battles of the Anglo Zulu war were fought.
Hotel Izulu
World-renowned for luxury accommodation, outstanding service, outstanding cuisine and award-winning spa and an extraordinary wedding venue, Hotel iZulu’s warm atmosphere and attentive staff contribute to an unforgettable experience of relaxation, peace and tranquility.
Built using only local craftsmen and products from Ballito, Hotel Izulu has been awarded its rightful ‘Proudly South African’ status.
Karkloof Spa
Karkloof Spa is a wellness and wildlife retreat where relaxation and rejuvenation go hand in hand. Home to Africa’s most spacious eco-friendly spa, along with a wealth of wildlife, birdlife and exquisite landscapes, Karkloof Spa offers a unique experience, inside and out.
Situated 24-kilometres from Pietermaritzburg this pristine peace of paradise is cocooned in the Karkloof Valley.
Three Trees at Spioenkop
Set in the foothills of the majestic Drakensberg mountains, the luxurious and private rooms overlook a picturesque game-filled valley which is home to 290 bird species. In the lee of the famous Spioenkop Hill, the period-piece lodge has been built amongst the striking Aloe Spectabilis and Paperbark Acacia.
The historical tours showcase the Second Anglo-Boer War (1899-1902) with the Battle of Spioenkop being a focal point.


