These protected areas were first proclaimed in 1897 and, although relatively small, they are home to many interesting species including lion, elephant, black and white rhino and giraffe. The two areas are not joined, although there is a wildlife corridor allowing animals to move across the combined area.

Guided walking trails can be arranged in Umfolozi's 24,000 ha wilderness area, and day and night drives are available from the lodges within the area, or from the nearby coastal town of St. Lucia.