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Explore KwaZulu-Natal at its Wildest

A community-owned Big 5 Game Reserve

Somkhanda Breakfast.jpeg

Our Story

Somkhanda Game Reserve is a malaria-free, community-owned Big 5 reserve spanning 12,000 hectares of pristine Zululand bushveld in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Established in 2005 through a landmark land restitution process, the reserve is proudly owned by the Emvokweni Community Trust, representing the beneficiaries of the Gumbi community.

Somkhanda is more than a safari destination. It is a community-led conservation success story where wildlife protection and local prosperity go hand in hand. Declared a Nature Reserve under the National Environmental Management of Protected Areas Act (NEMPA), Somkhanda is recognised for its biodiversity and pioneering rewilding efforts.

Over the years, key species of global importance have been reintroduced, including black rhino, white rhino, elephant, lion and buffalo, alongside thriving populations of plains game and remarkable birdlife. Every visit supports the ongoing work of protecting this landscape and strengthening the community that calls it home.​

MOMENTS AT SOMKHANDA

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