Tembe Lodge - Tembe Elephant Park
Tembe Elephant Park offers intimate encounters with some of the largest elephants in Africa. The 300km2 reserve, located in the Republic of South Africa between Kwa-Zulu Natal and Mozambique, is the ancestral home of the Tembe tribe who own and co-manage both the Park and the Tembe Elephant Lodge.
- Location
- Tembe Elephant Park, KwaZulu-Natal Bush & Coast, South Africa, Southern Africa
- Type
- safari_lodge
- Coordinates
- -27.041805, 32.428850
- Elevation
- 76m
- Price range
- luxury
- Phone
- +27 82 651 2868
- [email protected]
- Website
- https://tembe.co.za/
- Activities
- Game Drive, Guided Walk, Spa
- Amenities
- Spa, Restaurant, Library
PlnrScore: 65/100
Community
community-owned; school
Wildlife Near This Lodge
993 species observed within 20 km, 35 mammals, 203 birds.
- African Savanna Elephant (Mammalia, 313 observations)
- Nyala (Mammalia, 138 observations)
- Southern Giraffe (Mammalia, 79 observations)
- Impala (Mammalia, 78 observations)
- Lion (Mammalia, 52 observations)
- Southern Crested Guineafowl (Aves, 43 observations)
- African Woolly-necked Stork (Aves, 42 observations)
- Waterbuck (Mammalia, 37 observations)
- Crowned Hornbill (Aves, 29 observations)
- Emerald-spotted Wood-Dove (Aves, 26 observations)
Monthly Climate
| Month | High | Low | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 31.7C | 21.3C | 96.7mm |
| Feb | 30.7C | 21.6C | 147.2mm |
| Mar | 30.5C | 20.4C | 70.2mm |
| Apr | 28C | 18.4C | 90.9mm |
| May | 26.3C | 15.9C | 36.4mm |
| Jun | 23.8C | 13.3C | 36.9mm |
| Jul | 24.5C | 12.7C | 8.9mm |
| Aug | 26.2C | 14.3C | 12.8mm |
| Sep | 28.2C | 16.3C | 30.2mm |
| Oct | 28.3C | 17.6C | 56.8mm |
| Nov | 30.4C | 19.4C | 52.3mm |
| Dec | 31.1C | 20.9C | 105.4mm |
Best Time to Visit Tembe Lodge
The best months to visit Tembe Lodge are January, March, July, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Month-by-Month Safari Conditions
- January: Great, temperature 25.57°C, rainfall 97.4mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 74.5%
- February: Good, temperature 25.25°C, rainfall 138.3mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 78.4%
- March: Great, temperature 24.57°C, rainfall 71.6mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 75.8%
- April: Good, temperature 22.46°C, rainfall 86mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 78.1%
- May: Good, temperature 20.36°C, rainfall 38.7mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 78.2%
- June: Good, temperature 17.89°C, rainfall 38.9mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 77.3%
- July: Great, temperature 18.01°C, rainfall 9.7mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 70.6%
- August: Great, temperature 19.48°C, rainfall 16.7mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 69.5%
- September: Great, temperature 21.31°C, rainfall 31.9mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 70.8%
- October: Good, temperature 22.1°C, rainfall 58.2mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 72.9%
- November: Great, temperature 24.07°C, rainfall 50.4mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 72.1%
- December: Good, temperature 25.11°C, rainfall 109.5mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 76.4%
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Tembe Elephant Lodge stand out from other luxury safari lodges in South Africa?
We love Tembe for its deeply personal connection to the land and its people. The lodge feels luxurious and timeless, but it's the intimate encounters with the truly enormous elephants, and the knowledge that the Tembe community co-manages this special place, that truly sets it apart. It’s an authentic, soul stirring experience.
When is the absolute best time to visit Tembe Elephant Lodge for prime elephant sightings?
While Tembe is wonderful year round, we recommend visiting during the dry season, typically from May to October. This is when the elephants, and indeed most wildlife, congregate around the park's waterholes, making for sensational sightings. The sunsets during this period are also particularly breathtaking.
Beyond the elephants, what other wildlife can we expect to see at Tembe Elephant Park?
While the elephants are undoubtedly the stars, Tembe boasts incredible biodiversity. We've spotted lions, leopards, rhinos, and a fantastic array of plains game like wildebeest and zebra. Birdlife is also prolific, especially around the water sources, so keep your binoculars handy.
What should we pack for a stay at Tembe Elephant Lodge, considering its location?
Pack light, breathable clothing in neutral colours for game drives and walks – think khakis, greens, and browns. Evenings can get a little cooler, so a fleece or light jacket is wise. Don't forget sturdy walking shoes, a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen. We also always pack a good camera with plenty of memory.
Is it safe to go on guided walks at Tembe Elephant Park?
Absolutely. The guided walks are a highlight for us, offering a different perspective on the bush. Your guides are highly experienced and deeply knowledgeable about the area and its inhabitants, including the elephants. They ensure your safety is paramount while allowing you to immerse yourself in the environment.