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Write a User ReviewElephants and Special Birds
Tembe is located in the far north of KwaZulu-Natal, bordering Mozambique. Interestingly, it is owned by the local Tembe community, but managed in collaboration with KwaZulu-Natal’s provincial conservation authority. There are only two lodges; we stayed at community-owned Tembe Elephant Lodge which is well-run and good value, and we loved the staff singing to us on our arrival.
Tembe is renowned for its big elephants, although with the (natural) death of its biggest tuskers, you will only see ‘emerging’ tuskers – i.e. young bulls who have still to develop into their prime. Don’t come to Tembe expecting to see the Big Five – the bush is very thick, and sightings are difficult. However, do come to Tembe for the rich birdlife, including some real specials whose South African range is limited to this remote part of the country. The guides are all skilled birders, and in three days we ticked off the African broadbill, pink-throated twinspot, lemon-breasted canary, grey waxbill, Eastern nicator, Rudd’s apalis and many more.
