Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban
Durban, South Africa

Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban

Outty Ranking 51 3.8 · 5 traveler reviews7 hoursFrom $222
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Outty Ranking

51/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

3.8/5

Based on 5 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban worth booking?

Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban is a 7-hour experience in Durban, South Africa, from $222 per person. It scores 51 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 3.8/5 rating across 5 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
51 / 100
Rating
3.8/5 (5)
Duration
7 hours
From
$222 per person

This is a popular tour as it includes Tala Game Reserve, Natal Park and Phezulu Cultural Village. Encounter elephants at Natal Park. At Tala Game Reserve see the rhino, giraffe, zebra, kudu, eland, hippos, and many more. Experience Zulu culture and the exhilarating Zulu dances at Phezulu Safari Park. Highlights 1. Safari at Tala Game reserve 2. See elephants at Natal Park 3. Experience African traditional dance in Phezulu 4. Tour traditional zulu village in Phezulu

What you get

    About this experience

    This is a popular tour as it includes Tala Game Reserve, Natal Park and Phezulu Cultural Village. Encounter elephants at Natal Park. At Tala Game Reserve see the rhino, giraffe, zebra, kudu, eland, hippos, and many more. Experience Zulu culture and the exhilarating Zulu dances at Phezulu Safari Park. Highlights 1. Safari at Tala Game reserve 2. See elephants at Natal Park 3. Experience African traditional dance in Phezulu 4. Tour traditional zulu village in Phezulu

    What's included

    Included

    • African traditional performances at Phezulu Safari Park
    • Tour guide
    • Visit traditional village in Phezulu
    • Elephants, lions, giraffes, rhino, buffalo, zebra, and many more
    • See elephants at Natal Lion Park
    • African traditional dances in Phezulu
    • Game safari in Tala Private Game Reserve
    • Pick up and drop offs at hotels or airport or cruise ships

    Not included

    • Tips

    What you'll see and do

    1. KwaZulu-Natal

      We will pick you up at 6:00am to commence our tour. The Natal Park is home to Elephants. From Natal Park we proceed to Tala Game Reserve.

      120 minutes here

    2. Tala Private Game Reserve

      Tala Private Game Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary spanning over 3000 hectares and incorporating many diverse natural environments. The reserve features over 380 bird species, with big game that includes the rhino, buffallo, kudu, hippo, giraffe and eland. The reserve is well stocked with a rich variety of game, bird and plant life, nestled in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal. Get up close with the tiny mongoose, or the largest of all the antelope in southern Africa, the eland. Tala boasts around 20 species of antelope, including some special breeds, such as the oribi, bushbuck and reedbuck, with other game in abundance. Children four years old and over are permitted on game drives at Tala. Please note: In the event that Tala Game Reserve is un-available on the day of your tour, the game safari will instead take place at the nearby Gwahumbe Game Reserve, which offers a similar experience and quality of wildlife viewing.

      180 minutes here · Admission included

    3. Phezulu Safari Park

      Our final stop is the ‘Valley of 1000 Hills’ to experience traditional Zulu culture at PheZulu Cultural Village (optional extra). Visitors are taken into a traditional Zulu homestead to experience what traditional Zulu life was like those many years ago in the 1800. Inside a traditional Zulu homestead there are thatched huts placed in a circular position, with the cattle placed in the centre as a form of protection. At PheZulu’s ‘Sibaya’ or homestead the thatched huts are surrounding the auditorium which faces the beautiful ‘Valley of 1000 Hills’. Tourists are taken into traditional beehive shaped thatched huts, where the various artifacts, beliefs and rituals are explained, giving tourists an insight into the fascinating Zulu culture. The Zulu dancing show is impressive with the dancers in their traditional garb, showing off their skills with grace, agility and humour – a truly unforgettable experience.

      120 minutes here · Admission not included

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en, fr
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    African Sun Safaris

    Know before you go

    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban, photo 2Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban, photo 3Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban, photo 4Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban, photo 5Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban, photo 6Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 5 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    1 mention

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Organization

    1 mention

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Good for families

    1 mention

    Reviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.

    Small groups

    1 mention

    The group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.

    Traveler reviews

    5 verified traveler reviews for Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
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    1 star
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    Dreamer09007464570 · May 2025

    Wow, wow, wow!! What an experience. Lots of wildlife - rhinos, giraffes, lions, elephants and much more

    Wow, wow, wow!! What an experience. Lots of wildlife - rhinos, giraffes, lions, elephants and much more. Full Day Tala Game Reserve, Natal Lion Park & Phezulu from Durban

    via Tripadvisor

    Passenger35487480320 · October 2024

    A great day fully enjoyed

    A great day fully enjoyed the Full Day Tala Game Reserve, Natal Lion Park & Phezulu Safari Park from Durban. Lots of animals. Great mix of wildlife, nature and cultural activities

    via Tripadvisor

    Cruiser62468535882 · December 2023

    The Full Day Tala Game Reserve - Phezulu Safari Park from Durban was a day to remember for my family

    The Full Day Tala Game Reserve - Phezulu Safari Park from Durban was a day to remember for my family. We saw lots of animals including giraffe, zebra, kudu, antelope and more. We also saw lions and elephants at Natal Lion Park.

    Response from the operator: We are pleased that you enjoyed the tour, thank you

    via Tripadvisor

    Peli1020 · November 2023

    Extremely dissatisfied. FAR to expensive.

    The tour was totally overpriced. It cost € 180 per person and was not worth more than €60. We are extremely well travelled people who have quite a lot of safari and your experience. I have even organized such tours in Namibia and South Africa for small groups of photographers. We we were highly disappointed. Our driver was okay. He drove safely. Unfortunately I did not see that Get your guide was offering the same tour including the cultural village and the reptile house whereas we were expected to pay extra. The safari tour was just a drive round an enclosed area. Definitely nothing for experienced safari travellers.

    Response from the operator: We are sorry to hear that Peli did not enjoy this tour. This tour is popular and has largely been enjoyed by most of our customers because firstly we go to Tala Game Reserve where the traveler gets into a 4 x 4 game drive with an experienced Guide and get to see a lot of animals - giraffes, rhino, impala, kudu, antelope and a lot more. Thereafter we go to Natal Lion Park where they get to see lions, elephants, baboons, and many other. The program clearly states that at the 3rd stop which is Phezulu Safari Park, the client can do any activity at their cost (optional extra)

    via Tripadvisor

    Sanjay_R · November 2022

    Worst experience ever

    Firstly, I paid for a private tour for myself and my visitor. This did not happen. More people was included. (to save costs) I paid for a 4 x 4 experience. The vehicle that fetched us was a Corolla Quest with absolutely no ground clearance. The route chosen to arrive at the game park was ridiculous. 100's of speed bumps travelling at 20km an hour for more than an hour and a half. On arrival, I expected to change vehicles for the game drive but this did not happen. We actually went on the game drive using a Corolla Quest. That poor vehicle was nearly destroyed....Game drive was over within an hour due to the vehicle not being able to cope with the terrain. All passengers paid for a full day experience which according to us included Tala Game Reserve, National Lion Park and Phezulu Cultural Village but this was not the case. We were later told that Phezulu Village is now optional and we have to pay again. We eventually had to cut our losses and return home without going to Phezulu Village. We paid for a 10 hour day and got about 4 hours for our money.

    Response from the operator: We are sorry that Sanjay did not have a good experience on the day. We would like to respond as follows: 1. Tala Game Reserve 4 x 4 Game vehicle was full on the day. We did not want to cancel the tour so a decision was made to do a self drive tour of Tala Game Reserve. 2. Sanjay was taken to Natal Lion Park and appeared to have enjoyed the experience there watching lions and elephants. 3. Phezulu Safari Park is being offered as an optional extra. We do take our guests to Phezulu Safari Park but the guests decide what it is that they want to do at Pezulu Safari Park. It is unfortunate that Sanjay did not read the program correctly at the time of booking. 4. The vehicle allocated to Sanjay was a brand new very well airconditioned Toyota Quest. The vehicle has sufficient clearance to move on the roads in Tala Game Reserve. There are a lot of smaller vehicles being used at Tala Game Reserve. 5. We always look to improve our services and we have always received very positive feedback on this tour.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    7 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $222 to $5,490
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    2
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by African Sun Safaris, who run 31 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 55.5.

    See everything African Sun Safaris runs

    Why this scores 51

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)63
    Review evidence (18% weight)34
    Booking momentum (14% weight)26
    Value for money (12% weight)42
    Listing quality (10% weight)72
    Local standing (8% weight)29
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Durban.

    How much does Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban cost?

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    Prices start at $222 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Durban usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban take?

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    Plan for about 7 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Durban is not rushed.

    Is Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 51 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (3.8/5 across 5 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Durban, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban?

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    Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Durban can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Durban and add a light layer if any part of the 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Durban within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Durban?

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    On Outty we rank every Durban experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Culture Walking Tour of Durban, Sani Pass & Lesotho 4x4 Experience Day Tour from Durban, Luxury Canal Boat Cruise - Fun Things Durban Ushaka. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Durban?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Durban?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban?

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    Included: African traditional performances at Phezulu Safari Park; Tour guide; Visit traditional village in Phezulu; Elephants, lions, giraffes, rhino, buffalo, zebra, and many more; and See elephants at Natal Lion Park. Not included: Tips. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 211 listed pickup locations in and around Durban. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban offered in?

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    It is offered in English and French. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Durban. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Safari at Tala Game Reserve Natal Park & Phezulu from Durban?

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    Across 5 reviews averaging 3.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, organization, good for families. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

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