Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge with 18 rooms is the only private lodge in the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park, situated in the province of Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa. The Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park has an interesting history claiming to be the oldest proclaimed game reserve in Africa and the former hunting grounds of the Zulu Royal family.
What can you experience when you visit Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge? Breathtaking natural views combined with visionary architecture which strategically placed to be on the perfect spot overlooking a watering hole below the lodge and undulating hills typical of Zululand.
The eco-lodge is situated on land belonging to the local Mpembeni Community which has been incorporated into the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park. This is a unique joint venture between the community, the park, and a private company creating much-needed employment and generating revenue for conservation via park fees and levies.
Husband and wife duo, Brett and Paige Gehren founded Isibindi Africa Lodges in 1996. Brett’s experience as a ranger at Mala Mala Game Reserve, Greater Kruger National Park shaped his strong views on conservation. While Paige is an environmental economist with a passion for nature conservation. In March 2019 Brett and Paige established The Isibindi Foundation to manage and expand their community and conservation projects further.
Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge is just one of the lodges under the Isibindi umbrella. By 2021, they own 4 lodges scattered around Africa in world-renowned protected wilderness areas and they partner with many neighboring communities. These are Kosi Forest Lodge, Thonga Beach Lodge, and Tsowa Safari Island.
They want to create a human fence between the wilderness areas and neighboring communities so that the flow of benefits to these communities motivates them to protect these resources. Neighboring communities need to share in this flow of benefits. Without this, they have not only lost their ancestral lands but also access to its resources. Read more about them here.
Lowest impact construction and operation
High level of energy efficiency
Pioneer in waste management
Aims to have a fully organic and chemical-free operation
Actively protects nature and community