KwaZulu Natal offers a varied selection of tourist attractions to visitors traveling to South Africa. Day tours or tailor-made itineraries to any of the destinations in KwaZulu Natal are available. KwaZulu Natal Tourism is a good contact for information about the tourist attractions in KwaZulu Natal South Africa.
Whether you prefer to stroll through secluded, shaded valleys, walk the rolling foothills, hike the upper reaches or take on the challenge of man against mountain, the Drakensberg is certainly a wayfarer's paradise. The nicest thing about hiking in the Drakensberg is that there are so many fascinating landmarks that can be reached with a comfortable walk and the minimum of climbing.
A route from Eshowe via Ulundi to Vryheid, known as Shaka's Way, encompasses battlegrounds, memorials, forts and other reminders of wars between the British , Voortrekkers and Zulus. Guided battlefields tours are an invaluable way to explore the past.
The seven kilometre beach front comprises two well-monitored bathing areas: Inyoni Rocks and Pipeline Beach. Both offer a wide range of facilities, adequate parking and safe, shark protected swimming areas. Lifeguards are on duty throughout the year. Apart from restaurants, a mini waterworld and a saltwater pool, places of interest include a bird sanctuary, theIlanda Wilds Nature Reserve, noted for a prolific bird life, and the Umbogavango Nature Reserve which has an abundance of birds and several trails. Most sports are catered for, including scuba diving on the Aliwal Shoal, and horse-riding. The Shongololo Crawl Arts & Crafts Route encompasses a wide range. Affordable, comfortable self-catering accommodation is available right on the beach front. A daily bus service operates between Durban, Amanzimtoti and the Wild Coast Sun.
The stretch of coastline from the Umdloti River to the Tugela, is called the Dolphin Coast because Indian Ocean bottlenose dolphins can be seen here all year round. The larger humpback dolphins are also present throughout the year, but as they are very shy, they are rarely seen. Common dolphins follow the sardine run northwards in winter. Both bottlenose and common dolphins are extremely playful, swimming alongside humans, and following boats. Many of the first Indian immigrants settled on this part of the coastline to work on the canefields. The markets, mosques and temples of their descendants have brought an authentic Eastern flavor to the Dolphin Coast. Tongaat Beach, Ballito, Salt Rock, Sheffield Beach, Thompson's Bay, Blythedale Beach and Zinkwazi are among a number of popular holiday resorts on the Dolphin Coast.
The town of Kingsburgh comprises five seaside resorts: Karridene, Warner Beach, Winklespruit, Illovo and Doonside. All offer safe swimming (offshore shark nets), wide stretches of sand and gentle lagoons.
Shaka, the Zulu king, had an important military outpost at Stanger, and this is where he met his death at the hands of assassins. He was buried the following day, upright in a grain pit, and the site is commemorated by a monument in Couper Street, the main entrance to Stanger.
Memorabilia from the early days of the sugar cane industry can be seen in the Natal North Coast Museum in Glendow Mill Street. The bustling, colourful Indian market has an atmosphere all of its own.
Situated in an area where sugar was first planted in 1854, Tongaat's Indian ambiance is accentuated by two prominent Hindu temples - the Juggernath Puri Temple and the Vishwaroop Temple.
Close to Durban, this pleasant, up-market resort has luxury hotels, sophisticated shopping malls and good restaurants, very popular among tourists. Skiboating is a year-round activity at Umhlanga. Boat can be hired for the day at the Cabana Beach Hotel. Many hotels are situated right next to the beach.
Guided tours of the Hawaan Forest are arranged by the Wildlife Society. Hawaan, the last relic of coastal forest in the region, contains rare indigenous trees. Audio-visual presentation on the life cycle of sharks are held at the Natal Sharks Board. The focus is on the main-eating predators: Zambezi, tiger, great white and ragged-tooth sharks. Annual event: Umhlanga Festival in March; Ski boat Festival (400 boats) in April.
Notable for an atmospheric Indian character, places worth visiting in Verulam are the market, the Shri Gopalal Temple, opened by Mohandas (Mahatma) Gandhi in 1913, and Hazelmere Dam, where boating, water-skiing and good fishing are enjoyed.
These two reserves, with a combined area of 96 000ha are joined by a corridor. One of Africa's greatest conservation successes was the saving of the white (squarelipped) rhino from extinction in these reserves. Today, Hluhluwe and Umfolzi support over 2000 rhino (white-black) the largest concentration in the world. They also provide sanctuary for lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, giraffe, cheetah and various antelope species, among other animals. Facilities at Hluhluwe include comfortable accommodation, a restaurant and game-viewing drives. Umfolozi's accommodation is provided in four camps and a luxury self-contained lodge. Three-day wilderness trial, led by a ranger and a game guard, are undertaken between March and November.
Part of the Coastal Forest Reserve between Mozambique in the north and Sodwana bay in the south. The adjacent Indian Ocean provides the most exciting snorkeling and fishing opportunities in southern Africa. Accommodation comprises camping sites with communal ablution facilities and self-contained lodges. There is a four-day guided walking trail around the Kosi estuarine system.
Covering some 77 km, this is South Africa's largest natural freshwater lake; one of the last remaining unspoilt lakes of southern Africa and home to a great many hippos and Nile crocodiles. Excellent birding and walks through the coastal forest are amongst its attractions.
More than 380 bird species have been recorded at Mkuzi, including fish eagles, kingfishers & a host of ducks and waders. The bird watching hide at Nsumo Pan is a highlight of the reserve. On game -viewing drives & guided walks through a variety of habitats, you may see rhino, giraffe, zebra, kudu & impala, among other species.
This bird watchers paradise has an impressive checklist of over 400 species. Game includes hippo, rhino, giraffe, zebra, buffalo and various antelope species. In addition to a lodge, there is a rest camp with communal kitchens ablution blocks. Four wheel drive vehicles are used to take visitors into restricted areas.
A region of coral, unspoilt beaches, freshwater lakes, sand forests, wetlands systems and bushveld. A wide range of activities encompasses game-viewing, boat cruises, canoeing and walking safaris, as well as snorkelling and diving. Wildlife includes lion, elephant, cheetah, leopard, rhino & prolific bird life.
The Pongola Game Reserve was first proclaimed in 1894 and is the second oldest reserve in the world. It is a sanctuary to a large variety of wildlife, including giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, impala, hyaena, buffalo, rhino and leopard. Exactly 100 years ago after the last sighting of elephant in the Pongola area, two breeding herds were reintroduced. Birdlife is prolific due to the diversity of habitats, with in excess of 350 species recorded.
Pongola Game Reserve is a co-operative conservation project between private landowners, tribal communities and government conservation services, and aims to form the heart of a large ecological and socio-economically viable "Big Five" reserve.
Not so long ago, crocodiles and hippos had the harbor to themselves. Today, the port is a hive of shipping activity. Transport from Richard's Bay airport to some hotels and game reserves can be arranged through the establishments concerned.
Coral reef attract scuba divers all year round and powerboaters arrive in summer for some of the best marlin fishing in the world. Barracuda and kingfish are also caught in summer, while winter is the time for shad and stumpnose. A dune forest dotted with cycds is alive with small mammals.
St. Lucia Lake and its surroundings comprise a wetland of global importance. The reserve contains some of the highest forested dunes in the world, as well as swamp and sand forest, palm veld and various woodland vegetarian types. St Lucia is a fisherman's paradise and the bird life is outstanding.
Wildlife includes black rhino, suni, pangolin and red duiker, marine turtles, breeding populations of pink-backed pelicans, Caspian terns, flamingos, and the largest crocodile, hippo and reedbuck populations in South Africa. Beaches within the marine reserve are the breeding grounds of the leatherback turtle. The Mziki Trail in the reserve takes three days to complete. Daily guided tours of the estuary take place on an 80-seater launch.
The Zulu name, Ulundi, means "High Place". The town has become the political center of the Zulu people. Ulundi lies at the hub of the old Zulu kingdom which lost its independence to colonial expansion. The last battle of the Anglo-Zulu War was fought nearby in 1879.
The KwaZulu Cultural Museum houses interesting displays relating to Zulu history and archaeology. The former stronghold of King Cetshwayo, Ondini, which was burned to the ground by the British, is being rebuilt to the exact specifications of the original kraal (Zulu village). The beehive huts and the layout of the village have already been faithfully reproduced. White Nguni cattle, prized by Zulu kings of old, graze on the hillsides. Open Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 16:00. Accommodation in beehive huts (with electricity) is available nearby.
Authentic Zulu kraals (villages) such as Shakaland, Kwabhekithunga Kraal and Stewart's Farm, near Eshowe, offer accommodation and the opportunity of experiencing traditional Zulu culture first hand.
A narrow gauge steam train runs between Port Shepstone and Paddock and back (39 km), departing at 10:00 on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The train climbs and winds inland through lush green sugar cane fields and banana plantations, twisting and sometimes almost doubling back on itself as it negotiates the hills and valleys. There's a shorter excursion to Izotsha every Thursday and Sunday, and every day during the Gauteng school holidays. Booking essential.
The largest resort town along the coast has much to offer: restaurants, cinemas, good fishing, an amusement park and a skating rink. Discos and cabarets are laid on during the holiday seasons when a number of beach activities are also organized. Zulu women sell their crafts on the pavement at Margate Beach. The Margate Golf Course forms part of the South Coast Golf Circuit. Annual events: Experimental Aircraft Show in May; Hibiscus Festival in July.
A photographer's paradise, this little Eden encompasses forests, rivers, rapids and ravine. High sandstone cliffs dominate the 24-km long gorge. Leopards, baboons, small antelope and a prolific bird life, including five kingfisher species and seven eagle species inhabit the reserve.
Safe swimming and excellent fishing options are among the highlights of Port Edward. Part of the South Coast Golf Circuit, the relatively new 9-hole Port Edward Golf Course poses a challenge for golfers of any handicap. Nearby, the Umtamvuna Nature Reserve is noted for its spectacular scenery, bird life and many rare plant species. Trails in the reserve, especially in spring when the veld flowers bloom, rank among the best in KwaZulu-Natal. At the Mzamba Village Market, you'll find ethnic crafts such as basket work, beadwork, pottery and leather goods, and you can watch Xhosa crafts people at work.
Good beaches, a tidal swimming pool and other sports facilities are among the attractions of this coastal town. The Umzimkulu River is navigable in small craft for a distance of eight kilometres. The course at the Port Shepstone Golf Club (SCGC) is set in magnificent surroundings of forest and coastal bush. Annual event: South Coast Show in July.
A pleasant resort with good bathing beaches and a safe lagoon. Boats can be hired. Restaurants, antique shops and art galleries are among the town's many attractions. Ski Boat Bay is a popular venue among the ski boat fraternity.
High sandstone cliffs dominate this 24km long gorge carved out by the Umzimkulwana River. Leopards, troops of baboons, various small antelope and a prolific bird life, including five species of kingfisher and seven species of eagle, occur here. There are several nature trails for the adventurous.
The rugged coastline offers excellent fishing opportunities all year round. The main bathing beach is protected by shark nets and a team of dedicated lifesavers. Mini train rides, a supertube and a mini golf on the beach front keep the younger set endlessly entertained.
The beach complex houses restaurants, take-away outlets, shops and ablution facilities. Crocworld provides insight into breeding habits and conservation of the Nile crocodile. Other attractions include a snake tunnel, bunny park and a bird park. Tours are available seven days a week between 11:00 and 15:00. The short, but demanding Scottburgh Golf Course, part of the South Coast Golf Circuit, has spectacular views from the 18th tee.
A luxury golfing estate south of Pennington, just over an hour's drive from Durban. Part of the South Coast Golf Circuit, Selborne Park is famous for its scenic fairways and its testing holes and water hazards. It's rated among the top 12 courses of southern Africa.
The small GC Robertson Nature Reserve attracts 180 bird species. A walking trail with picnic sites and ablution facilities leads through the reserve.
Aptly named because of the multitude of shells found here. The Shell Museum is said to have the largest display of shells in South Africa. Safe swimming and good angling are enjoyed. On the northern boundary, there is a golf driving range (SCGC).
With its large, safe bathing beach, tidal pools and calm lagoon, this is an ideal base for windsurfing and swimming. Beautifully designed, the Southbroom Golf Course (SCGC) is a joy to play on. The seven-hectare Frederika Nature Reserve encompasses an unspoilt area of dune forest next to the golf course. Zulu dancing displays take place every Sunday at 15:30 at the Barn Owl.
Bowling greens, safe swimming areas and a tidal pool are among the town's leisure options. Canoes and paddle-boats can be hired at the tea-room across the lagoon. St Michael's beach reputedly has the best surfing waves on the South Coast. The layout of the 9-hole St Michael's Golf Course (SCGC), with its many water features, guarantees a challenging round.
The rocky coastline is a magnet for anglers, but unsuitable for bathing. Swimmers gravitate to a large tidal swimming pool. Sports facilities include tennis courts and bowling greens.
The Umkomaas Golf Course, part of the South Coast Golf Circuit, is the setting for the Natal Amateur Championships. Pottery, woven items, baskets and leather goods are sold at the Umnini Zulu Crafts Center north of town. At the 300-acre Esulwini Nature Reserve on the outskirts of Umkomaas, 100 bird species have been identified. The coastal forest is also home to small antelope, monkeys and mongoose. Three walking trails are available. Open seven days a week. Umkomaas is a driver's Mecca. Dive operators are available to take divers to the world-famous Aliwal Shoal and further afield.
Close to the beach, the Uvongo River tumbles 23 m into the lagoon, forming one of the deepest estuaries in the country. In addition to safe sea bathing, there is a tidal pool, children's paddling pool and boats for hire on the lagoon. Fishing conditions are good, especially at Orange Rocks Beacon Rocks and La Crete Point.
Shad Bay, at Manaba Beach, is a favourite among fishermen. Along the upper reaches of the river, pleasant walks can be enjoyed. The Uvongo River Reserve, a 70-acre sanctuary for a variety of birds, has a wide diversity of trees and shrubs.
Just across the Umtamvuna River, the Wild Coast Sun casino and entertainment complex attracts an appreciative clientele and offers the chance to win a fortune. The Wild One Jackpot never pays less than R 1.5 million! The world-class championship course at the Wild Coast Country Club forms part of the South Coast Golf Circuit (SCGC). You can expect to lose a ball or two at the 18th's enormous dam! Apart from golf, sports include tennis, bowls, swimming, water-skiing, windsurfing, canoeing and surfing.