Abu Madi Game Ranch, Mkuze | Quick Reference Fact Sheet

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DESCRIPTION:

Abu Madi is situated in the heart of Northern Zululand, KwaZulu Natal. Located six kilometers south of Mkuze village, it is conveniently close to the N2 National highway to be an ideal stop over for guests travelling between Kruger National Park and Durban.

The privately owned game reserve is found within the Zululand Rhino Reserve of over 23 000 hectares of pristine bushveld. being a sanctuary for the endangered black rhino, and hosts furthermore white rhino, elephant, buffalo, leopard, zebra, giraffe, blue wildebeest, nyala, kudu, impala, suni, duiker, warthog, bushpig and ostrich.

There are many other fascinating smaller mammals like the blackback jackal, vervet monkeys, leopard tortoise, caracal, serval, mongoose and the personal favourite being the porcupine that come around the lodge every evening.

Bird watchers have recorded 310 species of birds. A booklet on the "Birds of Abu Madi" as well as our "Tree Guide booklet" are available at the office. Game drives can be arranged with Management at a nominal fee in an open game viewing vehicle. Guests are given a map of Abu Madi upon arrival and may also undertake their own self-drives around the Ranch.

Accommodation

The Lodge
The Lodge is an ideal family holiday venue or a restful stopover for the weary traveller wanting a peaceful night’s rest. The atmosphere is homely and comfortable and the décor bright and cheerful. Our Zulu staff service the lodge daily and are friendly and helpful.

The lodge complex which is serviced daily consists of three separate units under thatch. The main lodge sleeps 10 in 3 bedrooms, lounge, dining room, bathroom, enclosed front porch and fully equipped kitchen and open patio with views in the background of Ghost Mountain and Lebombo Mountains.

There is a large rondavel with double bed and single bed and kitchen and bathroom ensuite in the shady garden next to the swimming pool and in close proximity to the boma. The thatched squaredavel has two single beds with kitchenette and bathroom ensuite.

All linen, kitchen utensils, braai equipment are supplied. Wood can be purchased at the lodge, and meals can be catered for upon prior timeous notice.

The Bush Camp
For a true "out of Africa" experience the bushcamp is well recommended. There are 3 bedrooms with 2 single beds in each, a fully equipped kitchen and dining facilities, with a boma in close proximity to enable guests to braai and have their meals around a roaring fire under the African stars.

The flush toilets and gas showers are found in a semi-open reeded environment where one can watch the animals on their way to drink water. The water pond directly infront of the camp gives visitors the opportunity to sit on their verandah quietly observing the animals and abundant birdlife coming to drink throughout the day.

Camp Sites
There are also campsites available and firewood can be purchased in camp. All kitchen utensils and braai equipment are available, as are bed linen, visitors are requested to bring their own towels.

Facilities

The cluster of thatched cottages, which form the Lodge, are set in cool shady gardens on a hilltop overlooking the bush. From the swimming pool and the shady trees on the front terrace there is a panoramic view of the lush acacia bush below and the Ghost Mountain in the east. In close proximity to the cottages and conveniently placed for evening entertainment, is our reed boma. This is a most popular spot to spend the evening - a place of warm camaraderie - the soft lantern light, the blazing fire, the sound of jackal and nightjar and the aromatic meals cooked under the stars - are undoubtedly a source of lasting memories.

Game & Wildlife

Game is approachable and easily photographed. Game drives in an open safari vehicle are offered. Tree hides are well placed for bird and game viewing.

The Msegane river meanders scenically through the reserve and offers excellent bird and game watching opportunities. The riverine bush provides a habitat for the shy bush buck and suni as well as pink throated twin spots and the purple crested lourie. A booklet of the Birds of Abu Madi is available at the lodge. The swimming pool, cool patios and the shady gardens at the lodge provide refuge for those wishing only for peace and quiet.

Activities & Attractions

Should you exhaust all we have to offer at Abu Madi, we are able to suggest a suitable variety of Day excursion in the area. Guests are encouraged to visit the Zululand National Parks.

Mkuze Game Reserve is a mere 40 minutes away. Well known for its population of black rhino, Mkuze is most popular for its bird life and shady hides where one is able to relax and watch game come to drink in the heat of the day.

The Hluhluwe / Umfolozi National Park with its Big 5 is 40 minutes south of Abu Madi as is Dumazulu Cultural Centre and Ilala Weavers. Here an informative display of Zulu culture can be enjoyed and authentic locally made souvenirs purchased.

Ndumo Game Reserve and Tembe Elephant Park are north east of Abu Madi. An excursion to this area brings one into the interesting sand veld of Maputuland - its lakes and estuaries. Kosi Bay lies on the Indian Ocean and although some distance in a four wheel drive vehicle it is well worth a visit.

Sodwana is only 1 hour and 20 minutes away for those who would like to spend a day relaxing at the beach, possibly fishing or diving .

Abu Madi Game Ranch, Mkuze, KwaZulu Natal

Accommodation

Facilities

Game & Wildlife

Activities & Attractions