Not only can students enjoy a beach holiday in this subtropical paradise, but also, just a few hour's drive from Umhlanga are spectacular African Big Five safaris. The reserves are private smaller reserves which avoid crowds and tourist traps. While some are smaller, students will be able to see elephants, rhinos, buffalo, lions and leopards in their natural habitat.

Hluhluwe River Lodge

This Hluhluwe iMfolozi Game reserve, famous for its rhino sightings, is a World Heritage Site and of course a wildlife enthusiast’s dream. This is the perfect opportunity for students to view the land from a boat cruise on Lake St Lucia. Students can stay in comfortable thatched chalets in an indigenous garden, each with its own viewing deck and fully air-conditioned.

AmaKhosi Safari Lodge

Students can experience watching the early African sunrise from the banks of Zululand’s Mkuze River, where the Zulu monarchy once reigned over their empire. This private game reserve on 6000 hectares of pristine wilderness offers game drives, walking safaris, frogging safaris, fishing, birding and cultural tours. Explore diverse terrains of savannah, riverine forest, wetlands and rocky mountains.

Thanda Private Game Reserve

One of Northern Zululand’s jewels is close to the Indian Ocean and perfect for a getaway in the heart of the African bush, with incredible Big Five game viewing. Thanda means ‘love’ in Zulu. This luxury award-winning African Safari is everything students could ever want from their African experience only 4 hours north of Durban in a low-risk Malaria area. Students can stay in luxury villas or in luxury safari tents and get acquainted with age-old Zulu customs while dining on African fusion cuisine.

Nambiti Hills Private Game Lodge

Nambiti Hills is another amazing Big Five experience where students can see the Big Five and Eland, Cheetah, Giraffe, Hippo, Kudu, Ostrich, Red Hartebeest, Warthog, Waterbuck, Wildebeest, Zebra and more. A wide veranda and bar spills out onto a waterfall and rock pool where guests can swim and sip on cocktails. Breakfast is served on the deck made by chefs in an open view kitchen.

Leopard Mountain Lodge

Last but certainly not least, this multi-award-winning 4-star game lodge in Zululand is a must-see. Situated within the Manyoni Private Game reserve of 58 000 acres this extraordinary place offers game drives, guided walks, peace and tranquillity. The restaurant is fine dining and the wine cellar is award-winning. Students can interact with elephants - touch, feed and learn more about these beautiful animals. Have afternoon high tea, or take a dip in your private plunge pool before enjoying a 4-course gourmet dinner under the stars.

Inquire at [email protected] for more information on booking your English courses and accommodation in Umhlanga Rocks. Visit www.torsioinline.com for more, catch us on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn for updates.