Hilltop Camp, Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park

Hilltop Camp is one of the oldest accommodation options in KwaZulu-Natal and, being located on top of a forested hill, has outstanding views across the wild landscape. The camp sits within Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park, formerly Hluhluwe–Umfolozi Game Reserve, the oldest proclaimed nature reserve in Africa and an ideal location for game viewing.

There is a range of two- and four-bed chalets at the camp, some fully self-catering with a small kitchen area while others only offer a bedroom and seating area: most have private bathrooms. The two bed self-catering chalets have twin beds with mosquito nets, ceiling fans, TV, lounge area, fridge, microwave, stove, kettle and cooking utensils and cutlery. While the non-self-catering chalets offer the same facilities with the kitchen. There are also larger chalets with two bedrooms (4 beds) that can accommodate a family.

The main building at Hilltop houses a restaurant serving a tasty English breakfast buffet, a la carte lunches and hot or cold buffet for dinner. There is also a barbecue (braai) used for some evening meals depending on weather. There is a bar and lounge decorated with historical photographs of Hluhluwe and a curio shop. Outside is a patio and swimming pool with deck chairs. The camp benefits from 24-hour electricity and a backup generator and is fenced from the rest of the reserve making it safe to walk around, even at night.

Activities at the camp focus on game viewing drives but there is also a forest trail and a hide with floodlights overlooking a waterhole visited by many species. Nocturnal spotlighting drives and bush walks are also offered, thereby increasing the potential for wildlife sightings.