Tembe Elephant Park

Elephants and special birds

Tembe is located in the far north of Zululand, bordering Mozambique, and interestingly is part-owned and run by the local Tembe tribe. There is only one lodge option, 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 recent (natural) death of its biggest tusker, 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 found only in this remote part of South Africa. 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.