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About us

A Safari Lodge With Purpose

Our History

Nestled in the heart of Manyoni Private Game Reserve, Rhino River Lodge offers an intimate Big 5 safari experience grounded in conservation, community, and comfort. We are proud to be part of one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most impactful protected areas, where ethical tourism supports thriving ecosystems and local empowerment. From our origins in 1998 to becoming a trusted family-owned lodge, every chapter of our story reflects a commitment to preserving this land and sharing its magic with our guests.

A hamerkop bird in mid-flight, skimming low across the shimmering golden water of a river at dusk near Rhino River Lodge.
A black and white archival photograph of the original thatched safari lodge building and a wide lawn with a hammock strung beneath a large tree at Iqina Game Farm.

1998 – Iqina Game Farm Bought

Iqina Game Farm was bought by Barry Cole. With two log cabins and a main area, the game farm was ready to accept guests and play a lead role in establishing one of the finest private game reserves in KwaZulu-Natal, which was to become the Zululand Rhino Reserve. And, ultimately, Manyoni Private Game Reserve.

1999 – Giraffe, Wildebeest & Kudu

Some of the first species introduced to the property were giraffe, wildebeest and kudu. These herbivores found a new home within the reserve, adding to the range of wildlife that visitors may encounter on their safaris. 

Two giraffes walking through the golden grasslands of the bushveld with acacia trees and rolling hills in the background at Manyoni Private Game Reserve.
A historical photograph of a guide perched safely in a tree, observing a white rhino and its calf walking through the bushveld at Manyoni Private Game Reserve.

2000 – White Rhino

White rhinos were successfully introduced to the game reserve, marking a significant conservation milestone in the effort to protect this critically endangered species. 

2002 – Buffalo

Buffalo were introduced to the Zululand Rhino Reserve. This species of the famed Big 5 brought the reserve closer to matching the species of the nearby Hluhluwe–iMfolozi National Park. 

A close-up photograph of a Cape buffalo with large, curved horns looking toward the camera in the dry grass at Manyoni Private Game Reserve.
A martial eagle perched majestically on a thick tree branch, looking out over the dense green foliage of Manyoni Private Game Reserve.

2004 – Zululand Rhino Reserve

At the time that property owners became involved in the development of the reserve, the collective decision to rename it ‘Zululand Rhino Reserve’ happened. Over 200km of fences were removed and the size of the reserve now sat at 47 000 acres. 

2005 – Rhino River Lodge

The Airton and Alexander Families decided to take on a new adventure and bought the lodge. Renamed to Rhino River Lodge a new exciting future beckoned.
Two female nyala antelopes standing on the manicured green lawn of Rhino River Lodge, with the elevated wooden deck of the lodge visible in the background.
A black and white style photograph of a breeding herd of African elephants dusting themselves, kicking up a cloud of fine dirt in the bushveld at Manyoni Private Game Reserve.

2005 – Elephant Herd

With the area now being large enough to become home to elephants, the first herd was introduced to the reserve. They continue to thrive and can now be seen along the reserve’s North-South route. 

2005 – Black Rhino

The introduction of black rhinos to the reserve represented another crucial step in the ongoing conservation and protection of another endangered species.
A close-up photograph of an endangered black rhino chewing on a woody branch in the dry bushveld at Manyoni Private Game Reserve.
A black rhino charging forward on a dirt track, kicking up a cloud of dust in the bushveld at Manyoni Private Game Reserve.

2006 – Birth of Black Rhino Calf

The momentous occasion of the birth of the first black rhino calf occurred. This speaks to the success of the conservation efforts of the reserve and our commitment to wildlife protection.

2006 – More Buffalo & White Rhino

An additional herd buffalo as well as more white rhino were successfully introduced to the game reserve, supporting biodiversity and safeguarding these species.

2007 – Expanded to 57 000 Acres

Following the growing number of wildlife and number of species, the size of the park was expanded further. The reserve now spans across 57 000 acres (23 000 hectares).

An open safari vehicle driving down a red dirt track into the expansive, rolling green valley of Manyoni Private Game Reserve, with misty hills in the far distance.

2009 – Protected Area

The reserve was officially proclaimed as a protected area, reinforcing our dedication to conserving Zululand’s rich biodiversity. With this, we continue to ensure the preservation of the reserve’s ecosystems. 

2009 – Cheetah

The first cheetahs were introduced to the park. The species, being a favourite sighting for guests, would help control the thriving populations of antelope species. 

Two cheetahs in the sun-dappled bushveld at Manyoni Private Game Reserve, with one standing alertly while the other lies in the grass nearby.
A large lappet-faced vulture soaring through a clear blue sky with its massive wings fully extended at Manyoni Private Game Reserve.

2010 – Conservation Significance

Our reserve earned recognition as a site of Conservation Significance, underlining our vital role in preserving and sustaining a wealth of rare and endangered species. 

2011 – Lions & Big Five Area

The next species to be introduced to the reserve was lions, an additional species of big cats. This introduction of lions is what allowed Zululand Rhino Reserve to be classified as a Big 5 Reserve. 

Two young lions sitting alertly on the ground in the sun-dappled bushveld at Manyoni Private Game Reserve, with one cub in the foreground and another slightly blurred behind it.
A night-time infrared camera trap photograph of a rare brown hyena standing on a dirt path with its eyes reflecting light in the bushveld at Manyoni Private Game Reserve.

2013 – Brown Hyena

Brown hyenas were added to the reserve, further diversifying the ecosystem and providing guests the opportunity to observe this remarkable species in their natural habitat. 

2015 – Prince Harry Stays

Prince Harry visited the Zululand Rhino Reserve. While staying in the Homestead at Rhino River Lodge, he was able to enjoy the untamed beauty of the reserve. 

2017 – Name Change to Manyoni

The Zululand Rhino Reserve was renamed ‘Manyoni Private Game Reserve’. With rhino poaching becoming a constantly growing threat, protection and conservation of all species continues to be a key focus.

Two brightly colored African green pigeons with olive-green plumage, yellow bellies, and mauve shoulder patches walking on the rocky ground near a waterhole at Manyoni Private Game Reserve.
A close-up photograph of an endangered Temminck's ground pangolin with large overlapping scales, drinking water from a muddy puddle on the ground at Manyoni Private Game Reserve.

2019 – Pangolin

Our first pangolin was successfully introduced to the reserve, marking a return after a 70-year local extinction. This introduction has contributed to our efforts to protect these elusive, endangered creatures. 

2020 – Covid & Post-Covid

In the wake of the events that unfolded in 2020, the lodge began a thoughtful and extensive series of upgrades aimed at raising and enhancing the overall guest experience.  

These renovations and improvements, which continue on an ongoing basis, reflect the lodge’s commitment to providing a haven for travellers looking to relax, rejuvenate and reset in an evermore chaotic world. 
A smiling employee at Rhino River Lodge stands outdoors in a khaki uniform, holding a silver tray with refreshing drinks for guests to enjoy.
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