KwaZulu-Natal Travel Guide

Discover KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa's scenic province with rich cultural heritage. From outdoor adventures, museums, and historical places to food and drink scene, find everything you need to know in this comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to KwaZulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal is a province in South Africa located on the country’s east coast bordering the Indian Ocean. It is a diverse and vibrant destination that boasts an array of natural wonders, from the soaring peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains to the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. In addition to its natural beauty, KwaZulu-Natal also has a rich cultural heritage, with a fascinating mix of Zulu, Indian, and European influences.

List of Places to Visit in KwaZulu-Natal

If you are planning a trip to KwaZulu-Natal, here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Afro-Asia building, Durban: This historical building is one of the few remaining Art Deco structures in South Africa and is home to an Afro-Asian museum.
  • Bergtheil Museum, Westville: This museum gives an insight into the colonial history of KwaZulu-Natal, with a collection of artifacts and documents from the 19th century.
  • KwaMuhle Museum, Durban: This museum focuses on the lives of Durban’s black residents during apartheid, highlighting the struggle against segregation and discrimination.

Natural Attractions of KwaZulu-Natal: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, Zululand: This wildlife sanctuary is home to the Big Five, over 300 bird species, and a diverse range of flora.
  • Drakensberg Mountains: This stunning mountain range boasts some of South Africa’s most spectacular vistas and offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking and rock climbing.
  • iSimangaliso Wetland Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven for wildlife, birdwatching, and scenic beauty with vast wetlands, sand dunes, and forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of KwaZulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal has some of the world’s most beautiful and challenging hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the most popular trails:

  • Giant’s Castle Nature Reserve: This reserve is home to some of the most challenging hiking and rock climbing routes in the Drakensberg Mountains.
  • Durban Green Corridor: This urban trail runs along the Umgngeni River and offers stunning views of the city’s skyline and wildlife.
  • Sani Pass and Lesotho Highlands: This iconic mountain pass is a must for adventure seekers and offers a thrilling experience combining hiking, biking, and horse riding.

Best Things to Do in KwaZulu-Natal: Activities and Tours

KwaZulu-Natal offers a range of exciting activities and tours. Here are some of the best:

  • Shark Cage Diving, Aliwal Shoal: Experience the thrill of getting up close and personal with some of the ocean’s apex predators - sharks.
  • Battlefield Tours: Uncover the rich history of the province on a tour of the battlefield sites marked by conflicts between the British, Boers, and Zulus in the late 1800s.
  • Bicycle Tour of Durban: Discover the vibrant culture and urban lifestyle of Durban while exploring the city’s hidden gems on a bike tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for KwaZulu-Natal

Here’s a week-long itinerary that covers some of the best places to visit and things to do in KwaZulu-Natal:

Day 1: Arrive in Durban, explore the city’s beaches, and visit the Afro-Asia building.

Day 2: Take a tour of Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park and go on a game drive.

Day 3: Visit the historic town of Pietermaritzburg and explore the Natal Midlands.

Day 4: Head to the Drakensberg Mountains for a day of hiking or rock climbing.

Day 5: Take a guided tour of the Battlefields and learn about the history of the region.

Day 6: Explore the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and go on a boat cruise.

Day 7: Visit the Mandela Capture Site and learn about the life of one of South Africa’s greatest leaders before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of KwaZulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal’s cuisine is a unique blend of Indian, Zulu, and European influences, resulting in some of the most diverse and delicious dishes in South Africa. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bunny Chow: This is a Durban delicacy that consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry.
  • Braai (Barbeque): This South African specialty involves grilling meat, seafood, or vegetables on an open fire and is often enjoyed with a cold beer.
  • Durban curry: The Indian community has a significant presence in KwaZulu-Natal, and their spicy curries are a must-try while you are there.

Local Beverages

  • Umqombothi: This is a traditional Zulu beer made from maize and sorghum, and it is usually served in a clay pot or gourd.
  • Rooibos Tea: This tea is native to South Africa and is made from the leaves of the rooibos plant. It is known for its soothing and relaxing properties and is an excellent substitute for traditional tea.

Where to Stay in KwaZulu-Natal: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

KwaZulu-Natal has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and needs, from luxurious hotels to affordable guesthouses and backpacker hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Oyster Box Hotel, Umhlanga Rocks: This luxurious hotel is perched on the edge of the Indian Ocean and offers stunning views and world-class restaurants.
  • The Backpack, Durban: This hostel is perfect for budget travellers, and its central location makes it a great base for exploring the city.
  • The Bend Country House and Nature Estate, Nottingham Road: This charming guesthouse is located in the heart of the Natal Midlands and boasts stunning views of the Drakensberg Mountains.

What to Buy in KwaZulu-Natal: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for some unique souvenirs to take home from KwaZulu-Natal, here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Zulu beadwork: The Zulu people are famous for their intricate beadwork, and there are many shops and markets in the province where you can find beautiful handcrafted jewellery and clothing.
  • Rooibos Tea: This tea is grown exclusively in South Africa and makes for an excellent souvenir or gift.
  • African art: KwaZulu-Natal is home to some of South Africa’s most talented artists, and their works can be found in galleries and shops throughout the province.

Local Culture and Customs of KwaZulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal has a rich cultural heritage, and the province’s people are friendly and welcoming. Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting:

  • Respect local customs and traditions and be mindful of cultural sensitivities.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting cultural sites and when interacting with locals.
  • Learn a few phrases in Zulu, the province’s most widely spoken language, as it will make communication easier and endear you to the locals.

Best Time to Visit KwaZulu-Natal

The best time to visit KwaZulu-Natal is from May to September when the weather is dry and mild. The summer months of November to March can be oppressively hot and humid, and the rainy season can dampen your outdoor adventure plans.

Do’s and Don’ts of KwaZulu-Natal

When visiting KwaZulu-Natal, there are some things you should do and avoid doing. Here are some of the most important ones:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Learn about the region’s history and culture.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Wander off into unfamiliar areas after dark.
  • Photograph people without asking for their permission first.
  • Remove artifacts or plants from protected areas.

Safety and Health

KwaZulu-Natal, like the rest of South Africa, has experienced some high crime rates in recent years. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety in KwaZulu-Natal

  • Avoid walking alone at night.
  • Be vigilant when using public transport.
  • Keep valuables out of sight and in secure areas.
  • Stay in well-lit areas and avoid deserted spots.

Health in KwaZulu-Natal

  • Get up to date with your vaccinations.
  • Drink bottled or boiled water.
  • Avoid swimming in freshwater bodies as they may be infested with bilharzia.

Getting to KwaZulu-Natal: Transportation Options and Logistics

KwaZulu-Natal is easily accessible by air, bus, or car, with a range of transportation options available. Here’s what you need to know:

  • The province has three airports: King Shaka International Airport in Durban, Pietermaritzburg Airport, and Richards Bay Airport.
  • There are several bus companies that operate within the province, including Greyhound and Intercape.
  • Car hire is also readily available in major centres.

How to Get Around in KwaZulu-Natal

There are several ways to get around KwaZulu-Natal, including buses, taxis, and cars. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Buses are affordable and reliable, with several companies operating in the province.
  • Taxis are abundant but not always safe and should be avoided at night.
  • Car hire is available at all major airports and cities in the province, and self-drive is an excellent option for exploring the countryside.

Where to Go Next from KwaZulu-Natal: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore beyond KwaZulu-Natal, here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth considering:

  • Swaziland: This landlocked country is known for its stunning nature reserves, traditional culture, and arts and crafts markets.
  • Mozambique: This country boasts a spectacular coastline, vibrant cultural scene, and an emerging food and drink scene.
  • Kruger National Park: This world-renowned park is home to an unrivalled diversity of wildlife species and is a must for any nature lover.

Conclusion

KwaZulu-Natal is an incredible destination with something for everyone. From dramatic mountain ranges and sprawling wetlands to vibrant cities and rich cultural heritage, there is no shortage of things to see and do. Plan your trip tactfully and explore this enchanting region of South Africa.

Much of the KwaZulu-Natal territory is dominated by huge sugar cane fields. Much of the KwaZulu-Natal territory is dominated by huge sugar cane fields. KwaZulu-Natal KwaZulu-Natal


    Battlefields
    Elephant Coast
    Eshowe
    Midlands
    North Coast
    Richards Bay
    South Coast
    Ukhahlamba Drakensberg
    Zululand