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Tala Game Reserve, Natal Lion Park & Phezulu From Durban

Set out on a journey through the wild heart of South Africa, where nature’s untamed spirit roams freely at Tala Game Reserve, Natal Lion Park, and Phezulu Safari Park from Durban.

As the savannah whispers tales of ancient traditions and majestic creatures, visitors are drawn into a realm where every step holds the promise of awe and discovery.

The allure of encountering lions up close, witnessing elephants in their natural habitat, and immersing in the vibrant tapestry of Zulu culture beckons travelers to a day filled with wonder and excitement.

Just The Basics

• Experience a stylish safari at Tala Game Reserve with a 4×4 game drive.
• Encounter wildlife at Natal Lion Park with experienced game rangers.
• Immerse in Zulu culture at Phezulu Safari Park with traditional dancing and living experiences.
• Enjoy a full-day adventure exploring authentic traditional wares and cultural performances.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• 15 Day Tour Cape Town to Johannesburg
• Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve Full Day Tour From Durban
• Isandlwana & Rorke’s Drift Battlefields Tour
• 1/2 Day Tala Game Reserve & Lion Park Tour From Durban

Activity Information

Providing travelers with the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Tala Game Reserve excursion offers a thrilling 10-hour adventure filled with wildlife encounters and cultural experiences .

Visitors can expect a safari adventure intertwined with local traditions , starting with a 4×4 game drive in the expansive Tala Game Reserve spanning over 3,000 hectares of wilderness .

The journey continues to Natal Lion Park, where lions and elephants can be spotted in their natural habitat.

Lastly, the tour culminates in an African culture at Phezulu Safari Park, offering insights into traditional Zulu living and captivating cultural dancing experiences.

This itinerary guarantees an enriching exploration of nature and heritage in one unforgettable trip.

Highlights of the Experience

Set out on a thrilling journey through the Tala Game Reserve and beyond from Durban to witness lions, elephants, and explore an authentic African cultural experience.

The Tala Game Reserve offers a 4×4 game drive through 3,000 hectares of wilderness , where visitors can encounter a variety of African wildlife .

At Natal Lion Park, get up close to majestic lions and gentle elephants.

The experience continues with a culture at Phezulu Safari Park, where traditional Zulu living is showcased, and visitors can enjoy cultural dancing performances.

This excursion promises a day filled with adventure, wildlife encounters , and the opportunity to connect with the rich heritage of Africa through unique cultural experiences .

Visitors to the excursion can anticipate being picked up from preferred locations and embarking on a stylish safari experience at Tala Game Reserve. The package includes the opportunity for culture through traditional dancing experiences at Phezulu Safari Park.

Plus, visitors will have the chance for wildlife encounters with experienced game rangers as they explore Tala Game Reserve’s 3,000 hectares of wilderness. The wheelchair-accessible safari ensures that all travelers can enjoy the adventure.

At Phezulu Safari Park, guests can engage in Zulu cultural experiences, further enhancing their understanding of the local traditions . This excursion promises a well-rounded experience, combining the thrill of wildlife encounters with the richness of culture.

The itinerary kicks off with an exhilarating 4×4 game drive at Tala Game Reserve. Visitors will then venture to Natal Lion Park for more wildlife encounters, with the chance to see lions and elephants up close.

The journey continues to Phezulu Safari Park, offering a deep dive into culture through traditional Zulu living experiences and cultural dancing. Here, guests can also purchase authentic traditional wares, adding a unique touch to their visit.

This full-day adventure promises a blend of thrilling wildlife encounters and enriching cultural experiences, making it a well-rounded and unforgettable exploration of the diverse offerings in Natal.

Booking Details

To secure a spot on this thrilling full-day adventure, guests can take advantage of the option for free cancellation with a 24-hour notice. Payment can be made at the time of booking or upon pickup, offering flexibility for travelers. The full refund policy ensures peace of mind, allowing cancellations with adequate time.

Pickup locations are conveniently arranged, ensuring easy accessibility for participants. Engage in Zulu cultural experiences at Phezulu Safari Park, adding a rich cultural dimension to the day’s activities. Plus, guests can enjoy a leisurely drive through Tala Game Reserve with experienced game rangers, enhancing the wildlife viewing experience.

This tour not only offers exciting wildlife encounters but also provides opportunities to immerse in the vibrant local culture.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• From Durban: Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Overnight Safari W/ Transfer
• Drakensberg Mountains 1/2 Day Plus Hiking From – Durban
• 1/2 Day Tala Game Reserve & Natal Lion Park Tour From Durban
• Half Day Tala Game Reserve & Natal Lion Pk Tour From Durban
• Full Day Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve Tour From Durban
• 2 Day Hluhluwe Imfolo & Isimangaliso W/Park Tour From Durban

Common questions

Are Meals Included in the Tour Package?

Meals are not included in the tour package. Travelers can inform about any dietary restrictions or meal preferences . Various food options are available for purchase during the 10-hour experience, offering flexibility and choice.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Children to Participate in the Tour?

Safety measures are in place to ensure children’s well-being. Child supervision is provided throughout, enhancing educational value. Wildlife encounters offer a unique learning opportunity. The tour caters to all ages, making it a family-friendly adventure.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available Throughout the Tour?

Restroom breaks are strategically planned throughout the tour to ensure comfort. Tour accommodations include accessible facilities for travelers. Visitors can enjoy the experience without worrying about restroom availability, with convenience as a top priority.

Can Guests Interact With the Animals at Natal Lion Park?

Guests at Natal Lion Park can observe animals closely, following strict safety regulations . Animal encounters are guided by park staff to ensure a safe and educational experience. Interactions with the animals are limited to prioritize their well-being.

Is There a Gift Shop at Tala Game Reserve for Souvenirs?

Guests can find a gift shop at Tala Game Reserve offering a variety of souvenirs. They can purchase wildlife-themed items, local crafts , and other memorabilia to remember their safari experience and support local artisans.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Durban:Culture Walking Tour of Durban
• Durban Half-Day City Tour – Golden Mile, Botanical Gardens
• Durban Airport to Durban City Transfer
• Durban: Zulu Oracle and Herbalist Experience Day Tour
• Durban: Gondola Ride
• Durban: City Sightseeing Tour
• Durban: Waterfront Canals Pedal Boat Rental
• Durban Point Waterfront: Luxury Canal Boat Cruise
• Durban: Durban: Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Tour
• Durban: 1-Hour Boat Cruise From Wilson’s Wharf
• Durban: 30-Minute Harbor Boat Cruise

Set out on a South African adventure like no other with a trip to Tala Game Reserve, Natal Lion Park, and Phezulu Safari Park from Durban. Witness the beauty of majestic wildlife up close, learn about Zulu culture, and enjoy a thrilling 4×4 game drive in the wilderness.

With the convenience of free cancellation and a knowledgeable tour guide by your side, this unforgettable experience promises an enriching and memorable journey through the untamed beauty of South Africa.

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Best Safari Parks and Game Reserves near Durban

Ariadne is a renowned African wildlife photographer whose work is featured in many well-known guidebooks and magazines.

You don’t need to travel far from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal’s largest city and the country’s busiest port, to get to the bush. The city, with its urban sprawl and idyllic coastline, is a good springboard to visit some of the province’s many safari parks and game reserves.

Maybe you would like to self-drive to Hluhluwe-Imfolozi, the country’s oldest game reserve, or indulge in the 5-star treatment offered in Phinda or marvel at Tembe’s giant elephants. Here are some of our favorite safari parks and game reserves near Durban:

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi , one of South Africa’s most popular game reserves, is less than a 3-hour drive from the hustle and bustle of the Durban metropolis. It was established in the 1890s as a sanctuary for what was then the country’s last remaining population of southern white rhino. The reserve has been overwhelmingly successful and this is now one of the top places in Africa to see this threatened member of the Big 5. Other animals you might spot here include elephant, buffalo, giraffe and a variety of antelope including the gracious nyala.

• Distance from Durban: 2½ hours
• Accommodation options: Inside the reserve, Hilltop and Mpila Camps offer a variety of options including self-catering chalets, family cottages, safari tents and budget rondavels with communal ablutions. There are several private lodges and hotels outside the reserve as well.
• Activities: Game drives, game walks, overnight wilderness trails

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Tours

Phinda Private Game Reserve

Phinda is the most well-known and prestigious private game reserve near Durban. Staying in one of the six luxury lodges is an experience in itself – understated elegance and fine dining is the game. Phinda prides itself on the quality of the guiding and a safari here is not only exciting but also hugely educational. Expect close-up encounters of many creatures, big and small, and quite likely some action too. Phinda’s flagship animal is the cheetah and this is one of the best places to observe this gracious big cat’s behaviour; whether it is grooming, nursing cubs or running at lightning speed to hunt.

• Distance from Durban: 3 hours
• Accommodation options: Phinda is home to six luxury lodges, each with its own individual charm and character: Mountain Lodge, Rock Lodge, Forest Lodge, Vlei Lodge, Zuka Lodge and Phinda Homestead
• Activities: Game drives; game walks; bird watching; community experience; rhino, elephant or pangolin research experience; optional beach excursion

Phinda Tours

uMkhuze Game Reserve

uMkhuze Game Reserve is part of a mosaic of protected areas that comprise iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is a network of roads to explore, but the thick coastal vegetation doesn’t make for easy wildlife viewing. Spending time in the reserve’s photographic hides, on the other hand, is hugely rewarding. You’re literally in the middle of a waterhole when sitting in the stilted kuMasinga hide. You don’t need patience to spend a couple of hours here. You can expect a constant stream of animals coming to drink including zebras, wildebeest, warthogs, elephants and rhinos. With some luck you’ll even witness a pack of wild dogs or a pride of lions disturbing the peace.

• Distance from Durban: 3½ hours
• Accommodation options: Mantuma Rest Camp has a variety of accommodation options, including safari tents and self-catering chalets. Ghost Mountain Inn, located about 30 minutes away, offers more luxurious hotel accommodation.
• Activities: Game drives, game walks, photography from wildlife hides, fig forest walk, bird watching

Ithala Game Reserve

Little-known Ithala is perhaps the most scenic of all the game reserves near Durban. Although not a Big 5 destination (lions are absent), there is a fair amount of wildlife around, including both black and white rhino. The mountainous terrain with associated cliff faces and rocky river beds is prime territory for leopards. Other predators to look out for are cheetah and brown hyena. There is a big variety of antelope including some unusual species such as eland, red hartebeest and tsessebe, the fastest antelope in Africa.

• Distance from Durban: 4½ hours
• Accommodation options: Inside the reserve, Ntshondwe Camp offers self-catering and non-self-catering chalets. There is no private lodging in or nearby the reserve.
• Activities: Game drives, game walks, bird watching

Ithala Tour Operators

Tembe Elephant Park

Tembe Elephant Park is a Big 5 reserve, but it’s really the elephants that steal the show here. Tembe was established in 1983 to protect what was then the last free-ranging population of elephants in South Africa. The remaining herd consisted of 150 individuals, many of which carried huge tusks. The gene has obviously survived, as Tembe is still known for its massive tuskers. Seeing one of these giants at close quarters is an unforgettable experience. The variety of habitats including the special sand forest is home to many Zululand specials such as the shy suni antelope and the cheeky samango monkey.

• Distance from Durban: 5 hours
• Accommodation options: The only accommodation in the park is the community-run Tembe Tented Camp which offers all-inclusive packages with meals and game drives
• Activities: Game drives, game walks, photography from an elevated wildlife hide, cultural experiences

Tembe Tours

Zulu Nyala Private Game Reserve

Bordering the upmarket Phinda Game Reserve, Zulu Nyala is an altogether more affordable option. It mainly supports the same animals, although there are no lions in Zulu Nyala. Your guide will take you out twice daily on exciting game drives in an open safari vehicle. This is the best way to get close to animals, but mix it up with a walking safari for a different but equally thrilling experience. Zulu Nyala is also a good base to explore other natural and cultural attractions of the area. Several optional day trips including the popular St Lucia estuary boat tour are available.

• Accommodation options: Zulu Nyala Game Lodge is the only lodge in the reserve offering well-appointed air-conditioned rooms and safari tents
• Activities: Game drives; game walks; Zulu cultural experience, optional day trips to iSimangaliso Wetland Park and other nearby reserves and attractions

Zulu Nyala Tour Operators

Nambiti Private Game Reserve

Nambiti GR is a popular breakaway from Durban because of its relatively reasonable lodge prices. It is also perfectly located as a halfway stop between Durban and Johannesburg, and only a stone’s throw away from the majestic Drakensberg Mountains . With its grassland habitat, typical of its highveld location, Nambiti has quite a different feel compared to the other KwaZulu Natal reserves with their lush coastal vegetation. There is a good selection of private lodges within the reserve all offering game drives in open safari vehicles and informative bush walks. Aside from the Big 5, more than 40 other mammal species are present. One of the more interesting inhabitants is the serval, a medium-sized cat rarely seen in other South African reserves .

• Accommodation options: There are nine independent lodges inside Nambiti GR, including six 5-star game lodges and two tented camps. Facilities range from luxury to self-catering.
• Activities: Game drives and game walks

Nambiti Tours

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Full Day Tala Game Reserve, Lion Park & Phezulu Tour From Durban

• Tala Private Game Reserve
• 4x4 Game Drive
• Elephants, lions, rhino, giraffe, zebra, eland, kudu, wilderbeest, impala, and many more animals
• Natal Lion Park
• Phezulu Safari Park
• Entry/Admission - Tala Private Game Reserve
• Entry/Admission - Natal Lion Park
• We pick up all travelers from their hotels, airport or ports. Travelers need to send their pick up details to us so that we can arrange their pick up.
• King Shaka Intl Airport, Durban South Africa
• Durban Port, South Beach, Durban, 4001, South Africa
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travellers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Tala Private Game Reserve Stop: 3 hours - Admission included See details
• 2 Phezulu Safari Park Stop: 3 hours See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• Venture68106757890 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Such a beautiful tour - Full Day Isimangaliso Wetlands Park -Croc & Hippo &Game From Durban Such a beautiful tour - Full Day Isimangaliso Wetlands Park -Croc & Hippo &Game From Durban. A day to remember. Such a beautiful place - one really need to see it. We will go back there soon. The guide Mze was amazing, so much information to share Read more Written 3 April 2024
• Freedom65758958603 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles We had an amazing day up the Sani Pass on this Sani Pass & Lesotho Full Day Tour from Durban. We had an amazing day up the Sani Pass on this Sani Pass & Lesotho Full Day Tour from Durban. The 4x4 experience was out of this world. The views, the scenery - excelleent tour Read more Written 4 March 2024
• Explore30470494615 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles I had a great time on the 2 Day Drakensberg Mountains & Tala Game Reserve Tour From Durban I had a great time on the 2 Day Drakensberg Mountains & Tala Game Reserve Tour From Durban. Lovely scenery in Drakensberg Read more Written 16 January 2024
• Companion04580592294 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles We had a great time on this Sani Pass & Lesotho Full Day Tour from Durban offered by African Tournet Safaris We had a great time on this Sani Pass & Lesotho Full Day Tour from Durban offered by African Tournet Safaris. The scenery on the 4x4 up the sani pass was unbelievable. The guide was good too Read more Written 5 January 2024
• Scenic04539034107 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles What a great time - Full Day Isimangaliso Wetlands Park -Croc & Hippo & Game Drive from Durban What a great time - Full Day Isimangaliso Wetlands Park -Croc & Hippo & Game Drive from Durban. This tour was absolutely wonderful. Great fun on the boat cruise. lots of animals seen on game drive. Read more Written 3 January 2024

More to explore in Durban

Full Day Tala Game Reserve, Lion Park & Phezulu Tour From Durban provided by African Tournet Safaris

2 Day Natal Lion Park, Tala Game Reserve & Phezulu Cultural Village from Durban

• Pick ups and drop offs from within Durban, Airport, and all over Durban
• Soft drinks
• Bottled water
• Entry/Admission - Natal Lion Park
• Entry/Admission - Tala Private Game Reserve
• Entry/Admission - Phezulu Safari Park
• Travelers should send their pick up details to us in order for us to arrange their pick up at their hotels, airport, port, etc....
• King Shaka Intl Airport, Durban South Africa
• Port Natal, 81 Flower Rd, Clairwood, Durban, 4052, South Africa
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travelers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Tala Private Game Reserve

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2 Day Natal Lion Park, Tala Game Reserve & Phezulu Cultural Village from Durban provided by African Sun Safaris

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• About this activity

Full Day Tala Game Reserve - Phezulu Safari Park from Durban

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Selective hotel pickup
• Multiple languages

This is a popular tour as it includes the Natal Lion Park, Tala Game Reserve and Phezulu Cultural Village. Encounter lions and elephants at Natal Lion Park. More wildlife at Tala Game Reserve including the rhino, giraffe, zebra, kudu, eland, and many more. Experience the Zulu culture and the exhilarating Zulu dances at Phezulu Safari Park.

We are offering a special price of R2,990-00 per person for 2 or more people sharing.

Activity location

• Umlaas Road
• 3730, Cato Ridge, South Africa

Meeting/Redemption Point

• Wed, Apr 17 $318
• Thu, Apr 18 $318
• Fri, Apr 19 $318
• Sat, Apr 20 $318
• Sun, Apr 21 $318
• Mon, Apr 22 $318
• Tue, Apr 23 $318
• Wed, Apr 24 $318
• Thu, Apr 25 $318
• Fri, Apr 26 $318
• Sat, Apr 27 $318
• Sun, Apr 28 $318
• Mon, Apr 29 $318
• Tue, Apr 30 $318
• Wed, May 1 $318
• Activity duration is 12 hours 12h 12h

Pickup included

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included 4 x 4 Game Viewing Vehicle
• What's included What's included Air conditioned vehicle
• What's included What's included Elephants, lions, giraffes, rhino, buffalo, zebra, and many more
• What's included What's included Pick up and drop offs at hotels or airport
• What's included What's included Bottled water
• What's included What's included Natal Lion Park
• What's included What's included Tala Private Game Reserve
• What's included What's included Phezulu Safari Park

Know before you book

• 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

Activity itinerary

Natal lion park.

• Admission ticket included

Tala Private Game Reserve

Phezulu safari park.

• Admission ticket not included

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The Natal Lion Park – A review

It had been quite a while since I’d been on a game drive, five years in fact, so when some friends and I decided to pay the Natal Lion Park a visit recently, I was looking forward to an exciting excursion into the rugged African bushveld. Situated just 25km from Pietermaritzburg and about 67km from Durban the Natal Lion Park is quickly accessible from either of these major centres, and we certainly enjoyed the drive with the surrounding countryside providing pleasant views all round.

The game drive itself consisted of a seven kilometre loop around the park with entrance fees ranging from R100 per car to R220 for a large bus. Considering that my friends and I were being given the opportunity to potentially view 11 species of mammals, 20 species of birds and 12 species of reptiles our R100 entrance fee seemed more than reasonable.

We began our one hour journey shortly after arriving and were soon scouring our surroundings trying to spot whatever animals we could. However, with the sun positioned almost straight overhead most of the animals had already sought shelter from the heat and were proving difficult to locate.

After about 15 minutes without seeing even a butterfly our luck changed when a couple of African Elephants appeared out of the bush and slowly made their way towards our vehicle.

African Elephants are the largest land mammals in the world, with some specimens standing four metres tall and weighing as much as six tons. In the 10 years preceding an international ban in the ivory trade in 1990, an estimated 700,000 of these elephants were killed for their valuable tusks, which they use for stripping the bark off trees and for defence against predators.

Since then their numbers have increased considerably although they are still listed as a vulnerable species due to the ever present threat of poaching.

These giants of the bushveld certainly seemed intimidating as they lumbered towards our car and considering they were a mother and her calf, I was more than a little nervous. Female elephants are very protective of their young and have been known to attack humans if they feel their young ones are under threat.

Thankfully both mother and child were as calm as could be, lazily grazing next to our vehicle giving us the perfect opportunity to get some really good shots. Viewing these majestic animals up close in their natural surroundings was a great experience. They possess an uncanny combination of strength and grace that is simply awesome to behold and difficult to describe.

After bidding our elephant’s farewell we continued on our journey through the park, constantly scanning our surroundings in the hope of spotting more wildlife , but, with the exception of a lone Emerald-spotted Wood Dove, we weren’t able to locate anything. Although we were a little disappointed, we had the assurance that the park’s main attraction, namely its huge lions, would be unable to escape our attention.

At the Natal Lion Park, the lions at the park are kept in an open air enclosure situated right at the end of the game drive route, and visitors have access to them via a manned gate. We drove our vehicle into the enclosure and began to snap away, catching the lions in a variety of poses. It was quite something to view these huge predators from just a few metres away with only a few centimetres of window glass serving as protection if something was to go awry.

Of course the chances of being harmed by these lions are pretty minimal considering they are well fed and very used to humans, but we were warned by park officials never to roll down our windows or to unlock our doors at any time whilst in the lion enclosure. After all, as friendly and tame as these big cats appeared to be, they are still wild animals and need to be treated with the utmost caution.

With nothing more to see we headed towards the exit to conclude what had been a most interesting morning out in the bush. We all agreed that although we had hoped to see more animals, we were more than happy with our findings. Encountering an African Elephant in the wild is something to behold and even if you aren’t lucky enough to come across one, the lions will always be on hand to keep you entertained.

Pietermaritzburg Links:

• Pietermaritzburg Attractions
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• South Africa Holiday Accommodation

Natal Lion Park Contact Details:

Telephone: +27 (0)31 785-4707 or cell +27 (0)83 640-2641 Address: Umlaas Road, Lynnfieldpark, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu Natal.

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The Natal Zoo

Visiting Hours

* Closed on Christmas Day *

Entrance Fees

Adults: R90 Children: R60 (Ages 2-12) Splash Pad: R70 for 2 hour session (R20 per non swimming spectator)

Visit the Lion Park

Come and spend the day at the Lion Park!

Bring your family and take a self drive through the Natal Lion Park to see the Elephants and Lions.

Don’t forget your camera!

GPS Coordinates: -29.651547372058893 30.521219220853904

Lion Park Rd, Umlaas Road

Monday – Sunday: 9:00am – 4:00pm 

Public Holidays: 9:00am – 4:00pm

• R200 per car (4 people) R30 per extra person
• R300 per Combi
• R350 per small Bus
• R400 per large Bus

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News | World

Watch: Tourist flees bull elephant by escaping car...and risking being eaten by lions

This incredible video shows a tourist in a game reserve fleeing in terror from an inquisitive bull elephant – by opening his car door and running off into the lion infested wilderness.

British tourist Shannon Melville and a group of friends were parked up in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve in South Africa as they watched the bull elephant approach a car in front.

As the six-ton fully grown elephant towered over the tourist’s Toyota Camry on the 96,000 hectare safari park 140 miles north of Durban , the unthinkable happened.

Fearing the tusker is going to attack by thrusting either of its ivory tusks through the car’s bodywork or crushing it under its giant feet, the passenger throws open his door.

To the astonishment of Ms Melville and her friends, the passenger decides to take his chances in the bush where lions, hyenas, leopards, rhino and buffalo roam in numbers.

Those filming in the car can be heard laughing nervously at the dilemma the tourist has put himself in by leaving the relative safety of the car for the hazards of the bush.

The commentary goes:

Male: Oh no, oh no, oh no!

Female: Don’t get out!

Male: Did you see him run out? What is he doing?

Female: There could be a lion!!!

Male: This is insane!

Female: The elephant is very angry now!

The elephant is one of 200 who live on the Big 5 game reserve which also has over 120 lions, leopard, buffalo and rhino along with packs of hyena and African hunting dogs.

The bull elephant moves away from the car keeping its eyes clearly on the fleeing tourist who hides in the bush about 50 metres from the car as it decides whether or not to chase him.

With a top speed of 30 mph it would have quickly caught and killed the car passenger – if a lion or a leopard or another predator did not decide to make a lunchtime snack of him first.

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Holidaymaker Ms Melville told a local paper: “There were two men in the vehicle one of whom was the driver and the other one was the passenger who fled when the elephant went up to it.

“We filmed the elephant come safely past our vehicle and it went off into the bush, after which the guy ran back out of the bush and got into the car again, so everyone was safe,” she said.

Bush guide and elephant expert Devon Myers, 38, who just last week hit the headlines for facing down an elephant charge without firing said: “This guy did completely the wrong thing.

“The elephant didn’t look that grumpy but was a big bull and was quite confident and inquisitive and having a bit of interaction with the vehicles in the park, which is quite common behaviour.

“The biggest mistake the guy made was to get out of the car and run as his best protection was staying in the car. Not even Usain Bolt could outrun an elephant that can do 50km per hour in the bush.

“By running he could have caused the elephant to chase and he would catch him very quickly, and the outcome would not be good. He was in more danger from the elephant than a lion being out there.

“This elephant was not being aggressive but inquisitive. But the man’s behaviour in running could have changed that and he was lucky the elephant did not chase. It was at no stage at all angry,” he said.

Devon and the company he guides for, African-Born Safaris, run walking expeditions into the Kruger National Park where wilderness lovers sleep under their stars and walk through the wild bush.

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife spokesperson Musa Mntambo, whose organisation runs the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi reserve, confirmed the incident happened on Thursday last week close to the Mpila Camp.

He said: “We assumed all parties involved were not injured as we have not received any news of injuries or death following the incident which we can confirm did take place in the reserve last week.

“The appropriate action to take is to keep your distance from the elephants and reverse to maintain a safe distance and certainly not to get out and run off into the wild where there is much danger.

“In the event you find yourself in this position close the windows and do not move no matter how tense the situation is and do not jump out and run as you may be met by lions or leopards” he said.

In 2015 two French tourists had a miracle escape from the wrecked rented Toyota Corolla at the same reserve where this man made a run for it when a bull elephant charged it in an angry rage.

One of its tusks went right through the driver’s side door, narrowly missing his body, shattering the window, destroying the dashboard and ramming the car off the road. Both were unhurt.

In June this year a Ford Figo was also attacked by an enraged bull elephant at the same reserve which put its tusk through the passenger window and lifted the car up before dropping it into a ditch.

It then rammed the car several times from behind smashing the bodywork until it got bored and moved off when rangers appeared. Fortunately for the tourists neither of them suffered any injuries.

A bull elephant can weigh over six-and-a half tons and stand up to 11-foot tall at the shoulder. The 415,000 remaining in the wild are listed as endangered. They kill an estimated 500 people each year.