We recently ventured to Zimbali, a tropical coastal estate on South Africa’s breathtaking Dolphin Coast in KwaZulu-Natal, for an incentive travel trip. Here, lush green forests meet sparkling oceans, creating a serene natural escape from the daily hustle and bustle.
This luxurious ecological haven is the perfect sanctuary for nature lovers with eclectic wildlife, forested hillsides, immaculate beaches, dramatic views and Afro-Balinese architecture – all wrapped in a sense of exclusivity that leaves guests feeling valued and rejuvenated.
Exploring Zimbali’s Wilderness
Our journey began with a flight to King Shaka International Airport, where we were greeted and transferred to Zimbali (a 20-minute drive from Durban). We stayed at The Capital Zimbali Resort – an opulent 5-star accommodation perched on the estate, surrounded by warm Indian Ocean beaches, flourishing flora, unmatched luxury and unique nature activities.
We took part in an immersive nature walk exploring Zimbali’s lush forest trails, unique ecosystems and the incredible biodiversity that thrives here. Each step was a sensory escape, blending the joy of discovery with the soothing embrace of nature. Walking under a canopy of trees with dappled sunlight filtering through felt like stepping into another world. It was a chance to disconnect from technology and reconnect with the natural world.
READ RELATED CONTENT: How to measure the success of your incentive travel program
Bird Ringing: A Fascinating Hands-On Experience
One of the most exciting parts of our trip was participating in Zimbali’s bird-ringing initiative. This project, part of the estate’s conservation efforts, gave us a closer look at the various bird species that inhabit the area. As we learned about the techniques and importance of bird ringing, we even had the opportunity to handle some of the birds ourselves before releasing them back into the wild, adorned with their new identification tags.
It was thrilling to play a small role in Zimbali’s conservation mission, and the experience left us with a newfound appreciation for these beautiful, winged creatures.
Python Tracking
Python tracking was a truly unforgettable experience. Led by the renowned snake rescuer Nick Evans, we ventured into the wild to track and learn about these fascinating creatures and the ongoing research to study their ecology. Zimbali’s python project, established in 2021, has successfully micro-chipped over 50 pythons to track their movements and behaviour in the area.
For those of us brave enough, handling the pythons and participating in data collection, like weighing and measuring, was invigorating. Nick’s knowledge made this adventure both informative and unexpectedly fun! This activity offered a chance to overcome fears while admiring the beauty of these creatures up close.
Beachfront Segway Tour – Gliding Along Durban’s Coast
Our journey continued with a Beachfront Segway Tour along Durban’s stunning coastline. After a brief training session on how to ride these two-wheeled electric scooters, we set off on our segways gliding smoothly along the beach promenade from uShaka to Blue Lagoon. The ride was both exhilarating and relaxing, with stops for refreshments and photo ops. This was an exciting way to experience the area.
A Culinary Journey
Zimbali’s dining experiences were as diverse as they were delicious. The Fireroom Restaurant offered flame-grilled delicacies, fresh seafood, and a variety of South African specialities, each a celebration of local flavours. Lunch at the Stingray Café & Pool Bar became a favourite for its laid-back vibe and ocean views. Here, we savoured light, flavorful dishes which catered to all tastes.
Accommodation: The Capital Zimbali Resort
Our stay at The Capital Zimbali Resort was an experience in itself. This five-star property offered luxurious accommodations with all the modern amenities we could ask for. From elegantly decorated rooms to spacious villas with ocean views, cosy beds, chic furnishings, and state-of-the-art facilities – it was refreshing to unwind in such comfort.
Read related content: Scotland as an incentive travel destination: A Journey through time
Final Recommendations
If you’re looking to reward your top performers with a transformative travel getaway, Zimbali is hard to beat. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and a deep connection with nature.
Whether it’s the thrill of exploring lush forest trails, meeting eclectic wildlife, strolling along pristine Indian Ocean beaches, or indulging in world-class amenities at The Capital Zimbali Resort, Zimbali has something for everyone. Reward your team with more than just a trip – give them an experience that rejuvenates the mind, inspires the soul, and creates memories they’ll cherish forever.
