A forest on a hillside,
growing something real
Ethlathini — "In the Forest"
Nestled in a lush canopy of mahogany, wild fig, and tree aloe on a hillside just off the main road to Memorial Gate, Ethlathini Rest Camp is a growing eco-friendly destination rooted in KwaZulu-Natal and the heart of the Hluhluwe community.
The Place
The property sits on a hillside with the forest canopy breaking through. Tree aloes stand tall above the fig trees, and the mahogany provide deep, cool shade for the campsites below. When we arrived, the land was completely overgrown — chromolaena and lantana had taken over. We are still fighting that bush today, clearing metre by metre.
What is Here Now
Today we have four cleared areas for overland campers — natural bush clearings for fully self-contained travellers with rooftop tents, trailers, and overlanding rigs. Each site has a firepit with free firewood, clean water points, and WiFi in selected areas.
Ablution facilities are under development — self-sufficient overlanders only at this stage.
Ready to see it for yourself? Book an overland site and come park under the canopy.
Our Location
Just 2km from Memorial Gate, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park — Africa's oldest proclaimed game reserve (established 1895). Big 5 country, the last major stronghold of the southern white rhino, and one of the most biodiverse wilderness areas on the continent.
Quick Facts
- Name: Ethlathini — isiZulu for "in the forest"
- Location: Memorial Gate Road, Hluhluwe, KZN
- Distance to gate: 2 km
- Open: 4 overland campsites (self-contained only)
- Coming: Chalets, coffee shop, nursery, restaurant, skills center, fish farm, community garden
Siyakwamukela. Welcome. We are glad you are here.
