Top 5 Sustainable Stays in KZN
Written by Zeldi Smulders
KwaZulu-Natal — or KZN — is a magnificent South African province full of varied landscapes and unique experiences that’ll amaze any traveller. You can explore beautiful scenes of beaches, forests, mountains, and wildlife in game reserves, all with a light environmental footprint. Sustainability is prominent in various aspects of KZN’s offerings, including many of the stunning accommodation options. This all year-round visitor-welcoming destination makes for an impactful South African adventure.
Here’s our list of the top 5 sustainable stays in KZN:
Isibindi Africa Lodges
Isibindi Africa boasts 3 stays in South Africa, all set within protected lands in KZN. By empowering its community and conservation projects, The Isibindi Foundation allows guests to make a purposeful impact when choosing these eco-lodges. Its Kosi Forest Lodge, situated within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers rooms hidden within a coastal dune forest alongside the mesmerising Kosi Bay lake system, making it a perfectly unique getaway for families and honeymooners.
Location: Elephant Coast
Budget: Fancy
Sustainability:
Isibindi Africa Lodges is dedicated to providing luxury accommodation that is beneficial to both local communities and the environment. The lodges are committed to protecting the biodiversity of the areas in which they are based, reducing their carbon footprint, and supporting the local economy through responsible tourism.
Responsible food sourcing
Isibindi sources all of its food ethically and sustainably. They source fresh and organic food from local farmers and suppliers, grown without chemical fertilisers or pesticides. Additionally, Isibindi Africa Lodges works with its suppliers to ensure fair labour practices and support local communities through job creation and economic growth.
Waste management
They have implemented a thorough waste management system to ensure that all waste is sorted and recycled.
Energy use
Isibindi Africa lodges have invested in renewable energy sources, such as solar power, to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. They also have installed energy-efficient lighting and appliances, reducing their electricity consumption and carbon emissions.
Water use
Isibindi applies various measures for reducing water consumption, such as rainwater harvesting and greywater reuse. The lodges have installed water-efficient fixtures, such as low-flow toilets and shower heads. They also have a detailed environmental education program for their staff, guests and local community members to raise awareness about environmental stewardship and sustainability initiatives.
Conservation and community
Isibindi Africa Lodges is committed to protecting the natural environment and conserving Africa's unique biodiversity. They have several initiatives in place to ensure the protection and conservation of the region's endemic species and habitats, including establishing game reserves, preserving rare species, and reintroducing threatened species. They are also involved in community-based education, research and monitoring, eco-tourism initiatives, and a range of sustainable development projects. IsiBindi's dedicated wildlife conservation program focuses on anti-poaching efforts, habitat restoration and management, research and monitoring, and community engagement to support wildlife conservation. The rhino conservation program reduces poaching, protects rhino populations, and promotes rhino conservation and rehabilitation through research, monitoring, and education. The program also works with local communities to foster a sense of ownership in rhino conservation and create a positive relationship between rhinos and people.
What to look out for:
Discover the only fruit-eating vulture in the world on a birding expedition or see leatherback and loggerhead turtles lay eggs in the sand on a turtle-tracking expedition.
Explore the pristine environment on a walk through ancient Raphia palm forests. Alternatively, do so by snorkelling the Kosi Mouth or on a guided boat trip along the lake system.
Phinda Private Game Reserve comprises 29.866 ha of protected wilderness encompassing 7 different habitats. Home to the Big 5, &Beyond’s Phinda collection boats 6 luxury lodges, including Phinda Rock Lodge with its private stone suites boasting awe-inspiring views of the Zululand valley. At Phinda, professionally trained &Beyond rangers and Zulu trackers lead interpretive game drives in open 4×4 safari vehicles as well as other specialist walking, tracking, photography or birding safaris.
Location: Zululand
Budget: Fancy
Sustainability:
&Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve is an iconic African wildlife conservation success story. The Reserve has a long history of sustainability and conservation, making it a model of conservation excellence in the region. &Beyond Phinda has received numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Eco-Award for excellence in sustainable tourism. The Reserve employs a holistic approach to sustainability, focusing on the well-being of the people, environment, and wildlife that make up the Reserve.
Energy use
Phinda Private Game Reserve has installed a large-scale solar photovoltaic power plant to reduce their dependency on the grid and carbon emissions. They have also implemented various energy-saving measures, such as replacing traditional lighting with LED bulbs and installing energy-efficient appliances.
Water conservation
The Reserve has undertaken a program to reduce water consumption, including installing water-saving devices, harvesting rainwater, and using recycled greywater for irrigation.
Waste management
There is a responsible waste management system, including composting, recycling, and the safe disposal of hazardous materials.
Conservation and community
Phinda Private Game Reserve is committed to conserving wildlife through habitat restoration and protection, anti-poaching measures, and community outreach and education. The reserve works to restore damaged ecosystems, preserve endangered species, and promote sustainable use of natural resources. The Reserve also works to protect wildlife by implementing anti-poaching measures such as aerial surveillance, increased ranger presence, and tracking technologies. Finally, the reserve focuses on community outreach and education to inspire and empower local communities to become active stewards of the environment.
What to look out for:
As part of their exclusive game viewing experience, Phinda is renowned for close-up sightings of the elusive cheetah and the rare black rhino.
A tour to a nearby Zulu village welcomes you to a traditional homestead, where you can learn more about this Bantu tribal group’s rituals and customs.
Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge is at the foot of the Drakensberg’s Sentinel Peak, boasting swanking mind-boggling views of the Drakensberg Mont-Aux-Sources and Amphitheatre. This mountain lodge is ideal for families and hikers with a choice of luxury rooms, a bungalow and a backpackers cabin. Guests are welcomed by the Batlokoa people and can appreciate the local arts and crafts made by the community, including a great deal of artwork and woven items that can be found in the lodge.
Location: Drakensberg
Budget: Basic
Sustainability:
Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge has a management approach that aims to develop a sustainable tourism industry that prioritises the needs of the local community in balance with the surrounding nature. A flourishing community-owned endeavour, Witsieshoek and its surrounding land and tourism activities are managed by Transfrontier Parks Destinations (TFPD) on behalf of the Batlokoa community, and the community receives the support and assistance they need to make a success of the business.
Waste management
Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge has a comprehensive waste management system to reduce environmental impact. All non-biodegradable waste is separated and recycled, while organic waste is composted in the Lodge’s gardens.
Energy and water use
The Lodge has installed energy-efficient lighting and appliances, as well as low-flow showerheads and toilets, to reduce energy and water consumption. The Lodge has implemented a water harvesting system to reduce the need for potable water and to ensure a reliable water supply for the local community.
Conservation
Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge has adopted a sustainable forestry policy to ensure the conservation of the natural environment. The Lodge has introduced native plants and trees to provide food and shelter for the local wildlife.
What to look out for:
Guests can spot endangered Bearded Vultures soaring up above from the glass-fronted restaurant.
No need to travel far to admire the incredible Tugela Falls, the highest waterfall in Africa, as it is only 8 km away from the lodge.
Babanago Game Reserve is a community-driven, malaria-free area where explorers can discover the bush on 20.000 ha of conservation land. One of its 3 superb stays, all of which have the same ethos, is Zulu Rock Lodge, situated on the edge of the reserve that overlooks the White Umfolozi Valley. A choice of luxury rooms, a romance suite or a family unit, each with a fireplace and deck, ensures a comfortable safari experience for all. Guests can enjoy the thrill of daily morning and evening nature drives in the reserve, take a dip in the lodge’s swimming pool with a view, visit the wine cellar and relax at the African-styled bar.
Location: Zululand
Budget: Mid-level
Sustainability:
As stewards of the land, Babanango Game Reserve strives to preserve the unique flora and fauna, such as the lush mist belt grasslands, of which only 2% are protected in South Africa. Babanango also adheres to rigorous anti-poaching security measures along with dehorning the rhinos for their protection. Their partnership with conservationists, non-profit organisations and the local communities allows them to impart knowledge on the value of the ecosystem.
Water use
Babanango Game Reserve has implemented an extensive water conservation program that includes the installation of rainwater tanks, collecting condensate water and using recycled water for irrigation.
Waste management
The Reserve has a waste management program that includes collecting and recycling plastic bottles and other non-biodegradable materials.
Energy use
The Reserve has an energy-efficient lighting system that uses solar energy to reduce electricity consumption.
Conservation and community
The reserve has adopted a no-fire policy to reduce air pollution. The reserve has implemented an eco-tourism program that focuses on protecting and conserving the environment and its biodiversity. They also have implemented a program to conserve wildlife and plant species by establishing wildlife corridors and monitoring wildlife populations. The reserve has established a community-based tourism program that encourages local businesses and communities to benefit from the reserve’s operations. There is also an education program that encourages visitors to be aware of their environmental impact and practice sustainable tourism.
What to look out for:
The lodge’s stone-clad chalets are decorated with curated Zulu artefacts and are designed to make the most of the amazing views while still allowing guests the privacy of an intimate getaway.
Discover 285 species of birds, including Black Eagles and Crowned Eagles, Lappet Faced and White Backed Vultures, and the Narina Trogon. There are also 32 species of butterflies, including the Dark-webbed Ringlet and Mocker Bronze.
Based at the foothills of the Drakensberg range with various cosy cottages on offer, Three Tree Hill Lodge overlooks the Mfazimnyama valley of the Spioenkop Game Reserve. Hosted by experienced safari and mountain guides, guests can take part in various on-site activities, including horse trails, game walks, hiking, mountain biking and birding. Apart from that, there is also a swimming pool under a canopy of Acacia trees and a lounge decorated with historical memorabilia to relax in. Guests can look forward to excellent culinary experiences with a dining room serving locally grown farm-style country food and a wine cellar stocking South African wines exclusively.
Location: Drakensberg
Budget: Fancy
Sustainability:
Three Tree Hill Lodge gained the status of a Fair Trade certified lodge on the basis of adhering to specified criteria. This includes fair wages and working conditions, fair distribution of benefits, ethical business practice, and respect for human rights, culture and the environment. With the aid of the Three Tree Hill Foundation, guests can support the local community and purchase handmade items crafted by Hambrook village residents, who also receive training and skills development through the lodge.
Responsible food sourcing
The lodge has established an organic vegetable garden, where they grow their own produce and use natural pest control methods. The lodge also has a policy to buy local and seasonal produce whenever possible to reduce their carbon footprint.
Waste management
Three Tree Hill Lodge has a carefully considered waste management system, including a three-bin system for recyclables, compost and general waste, to reduce their environmental footprint. They have also installed LED lighting in all their rooms and public spaces.
Energy use
The Lodge has installed solar panels to generate electricity and hot water, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels.
Water use
To reduce water usage, the lodge has implemented water conservation measures, such as low-flow shower heads and dual-flush toilets.
Conservation and community
Three Tree Hill Lodge has partnered with local organisations to support local businesses and provide employment opportunities for the community. The lodge also has established a native tree nursery, where they grow and reforest indigenous trees to help restore the natural habitat.
What to look out for:
The lodge’s Molly Blackburn Library is furnished with comfortable chairs and stocked with numerous Africana, natural history, political and inspirational biographies.
Explore the lush rolling foothills of the Drakensberg on a mountain bike, available to rent, or with guided horse trail riding for different levels of experience.
KwaZulu-Natal’s plethora of unique stays with impactful initiatives invite conscious travellers to experience an overflow of forward-thinking projects, cultural richness and biodiversity. Now that you know where to stay in KZN for an unforgettable eco-friendly holiday, why not book a sustainable stay with Viatu? Our KZN trips are expertly curated and customisable so that you can choose the perfect stay for your sustainable trip to South Africa.
