Ndumo Game Reserve
Ndumo Game Reserve – Overview
Ndumo Game Reserve, covering 10,117 ha, is located in KwaZulu-Natal’s Maputaland region, right on the border of Mozambique where the Pongola and Great Usutu Rivers meet.
The reserve lies adjacent to Tembe Elephant Park, making it a remote and peaceful destination—over 400 km from Durban and about 110 km from Mkuze.
This birding paradise boasts over 430 recorded species, thanks to its mix of habitats including sand forest, dense riverine forest, floodplains, reedbeds, grassland, broad-leaved and acacia woodlands, and thornveld. The Maputaland area is the southernmost range for many East and North-East African birds. Key species include:
- Pel’s Fishing Owl
- Narina Trogon
- African Broadbill
- Eastern Nicator
- African Cuckoo-Hawk
Large mammals include nyala, hippo, Nile crocodile, impala, Cape buffalo, and more. While big cats are absent, elephants can be seen in the nearby Tembe Elephant Park.
Important health note: Ndumo lies in a malaria-endemic zone—visitors should take necessary precautions. Bilharzia is present, so swimming or drinking from rivers is not advised.
Ndumo Game Reserve Facilities & Accommodation
Ndumo’s Rest Camp offers seven 2-bedded rest huts equipped with:
- Hand basin (hot & cold water)
- Refrigerator
- Bedding, cutlery, crockery
Guests use communal ablutions and a shared kitchen & dining area with hot & cold water. Electricity is provided via Eskom supply.
Check-in: 14h00
Check-out: 10h00
There is no restaurant—guests must self-cater. A Curio Shop sells basic groceries, drinks, beers, wine, and ice cream. The nearest fuel station is ~2 km from the entrance.
Ndumo Game Reserve Activities
- Birding – Over 430 species, including rare tropical East African varieties at their southern range.
- Game viewing – Hippo, crocodile, nyala, bushbuck, buffalo, impala, giraffe, suni, grey & red duiker.
- Guided open-vehicle game drives – Morning & afternoon tours (book at reception).
- Guided walks – Day walks with a field guide (book a day in advance).
- Self-drive routes – Certain roads accessible to private vehicles.
Ndumo Game Reserve Amenities
- Bird watching
- Boma
- Communal bathrooms & toilets
- Communal kitchen
- Conservation area
- Free parking
- Game viewing
- Guided walks
- Open vehicle game drives
- Pets not allowed
- Scenic views
- Shop
- Swimming pool
Ndumo Game Reserve Important Notes
- Hats and torches are recommended.
- Speed limit: 40 km/h.
- No pets allowed.
- No littering, plant picking, or disturbing/killing wildlife.
- Radios must be kept low.
- Fires only in designated fireplaces.
- Declare all firearms at reception.
- Entrance gate closed sunset to sunrise.
Gate Hours:
- Summer (Oct–Mar): 05h00–19h00
- Winter (Apr–Sep): 06h00–18h00
Directions
From the N2 (north or south), turn off at Jozini. Pass through town, cross the dam wall, and follow signs to Ndumo.
GPS: 32°18’48.85″E, 26°54’32.48″S
Ndumo Game Reserve Frequently Asked Questions
What time do the gates open and close?
Summer 05: 00- 19:00 (October- 31 March)
Winter 06:00- 18:00 (1 April- 30 September)
Is there a restaurant at Ndumo?
No, guests are requested to prepare their own meals.
Do the rooms have en-suite bathrooms and toilets?
No, there are communal bathrooms and toilets which a short walk from the rest huts.
Are there fridges in the rooms?
Yes.
Is there a communal kitchen at Ndumo?
Yes, there is a large communal kitchen and dining room at the camp.
What do I do if I a am delayed and expect to arrive late?
The camp phone number will be attached to your booking confirmation and it is very important that you contact the camp as soon as you realize that you are running late.