A tantalising taste of South African heritage

There is no doubt that KwaZulu-Natal is eclectic with its terrain fluctuating between undulating hills, sharp ravines, mountain ranges and sub-tropical beaches. The cities’ streets brim with life and are in stark contrast to the traditional settlements found in rural areas. Natal (or KZN) can be whatever you want it to be: a place of respite or one of action-packed adventure. 

The province boasts two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, home to southern Africa’s highest mountain range, over 30 000 San paintings, and 500 caves; and the iSimangaliso Wetland Park graced with Africa’s largest estuarine system and more than 500 bird species. Hiking and biking trails lead visitors through wetland, woodland and grassland. Photographers will be spoiled for choice as they try capture the Big 5 and array of other game found in the reserves scattered around the province. 

The coastline’s warm waters offer surfing, kitesurfing, canoeing, snorkelling and fishing. Dolphins play in the surf while whales make their seasonal migration to Mozambique. By night, the Durban, Ballito, and Umhlanga beachfronts come alive with pubs, clubs, lounges, and restaurants. Natal’s history is reflected in the Battlefields region where Zulu warriors, Boer garrisons, and British troops clashed two centuries ago. Zulu culture and lifestyle can be explored via village tours.

Highlights

  • The region is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, known for its San paintings; and the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, known for its diverse ecosystem and birdlife
  • Game reserves include sightings of the Big 5, cheetah, hyena, zebra, hippo, jackal and antelope
  • The coastline’s warm waters and idyllic beaches invite surfing, bodyboarding, kite surfing, canoeing, snorkelling, and deep sea fishing
  • History of the country is reflected in its Battlefields region where the Anglo-Boer war took place
  • Best time to go:
  • Best
  • Mixed

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