Midlands Travel Guide

Explore Midlands, South Africa with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and things to do along with safety tips and transportation options.


Introduction to Midlands

Midlands is a picturesque region located in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. The region is treasured for its picturesque countryside, charming towns, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Midlands is an ideal destination for travelers who want to immerse themselves in nature, soak up the local culture, and indulge in mouth-watering cuisine. This guide will help you plan a memorable trip to Midlands by covering everything from its top attractions, hiking and biking trails, local culture, safety tips, transport options, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Midlands

Midlands is home to a plethora of attractions, ranging from natural wonders and outdoor adventures to historical sites and cultural events. Here is a list of places to visit on your trip to Midlands:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Visitors to Midlands can delve into the rich cultural heritage of the region by visiting several historical sites and museums. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions in Midlands are:

  • Nelson Mandela Capture Site: This site marks the location where Nelson Mandela was arrested in 1962. Visitors can view a sculpture of Mandela made from steel and walk a path that symbolizes his long walk to freedom.
  • Apartheid Museum: The Apartheid Museum gives visitors insight into South Africa’s bleak past of racial segregation and the efforts made to overcome it.
  • Howick Falls: This stunning waterfall is located in the heart of the town of Howick and has a rich cultural history.

Natural Attractions of Midlands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Midlands is home to an array of outdoor adventures and scenic views of its green valleys, lush forests, and varied landscapes. Here are some of the best places to explore:

  • The Midlands Meander: The Midlands Meander is a scenic route that takes visitors through the rolling hills, charming towns, and world-renowned craft stalls. This picturesque route is also home to wildlife reserves, quaint eateries, and exceptional wineries.
  • Karkloof Nature Reserve: The Karkloof Nature Reserve is a stunning gem of an outdoor paradise. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, hiking, mountain biking, and revel in the tranquility of the reserve’s pristine forests.
  • Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve: The Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve is home to many endangered species and offers visitors hiking trails, picnic spots, and serene views of the Umgeni River.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Midlands

Midlands is a haven for hikers and bikers who can explore the region’s natural beauty via dedicated trails. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes to explore:

  • Karkloof Canopy Tour: Karkloof Canopy Tour, an adventure in the Karkloof forest, is best described as a series of zip lines, slides, and abseils zigzagging from one platform to another through the huge trees.
  • The Midlands MTB/Walk Trail: The Midlands MTB/Walk Trail begins at the Midmar Dam and takes visitors through some of Midlands most scenic routes, including farmlands, forested areas, and grasslands.
  • Cascades & Gorge Walk: Visitors can explore the spectacular waterfall and its lush surroundings at the Cascades & Gorge Walk.

Best Things to Do in Midlands: Activities and Tours

Midlands has a plethora of activities and tours for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the best things to do on your trip to Midlands:

  • Explore the Midlands Meander Art and Craft Route: Midlands Meander Art and Craft Route is the perfect excuse to explore the artsy side of Midlands. Visitors can enjoy paintings, sculptures, ceramics, tapestries, and a host of other crafts from talented local artists.
  • Visit the Abingdon Wine Estate: Visitors can taste wine and enjoy local cheeses at the stunning Abingdon Wine Estate, situated in the rolling landscape of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.
  • Enjoy the Butterflies for Africa: The Butterflies for Africa offers visitors a chance to witness hundreds of butterfly species in their natural habitat. This butterfly conservatory is located in Pietermaritzburg and is perfect for the whole family.

Week-Long Itinerary for Midlands

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary outlining the best things to see and do in Midlands:

Day Activity
1 Midlands Meander Tour
2 Hiking at Karkloof Nature Reserve
3 Visit Howick Falls and watch the Nelson Mandela Capture Site
4 Mountain Biking at Midlands Mountain Bike Trail
5 Tour the Abingdon Wine Estate
6 Visit Lidgetton Hillcrest Estate
7 Butterflies for Africa and Karkloof Canopy Tour

Food and Drink Scene of Midlands

Midlands is a food and drink paradise, offering visitors a diverse range of flavors and cuisines. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages when visiting Midlands:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bunny Chow: A hearty South African classic made by scooping out a portion of a soft loaf of bread and filling it with curry.
  • Braai: A traditional barbecue-style cooking method popular in South Africa that can be enjoyed throughout Midlands.
  • Samosas: A deep-fried snack that is sold by street vendors in many towns throughout the region.

Local Beverages

  • Mampoer: A strong alcoholic drink often made from fruit and frequently enjoyed in rural areas.
  • Craft Beer: Midlands has become home to some excellent craft breweries that produce unique and flavorful beers made from locally sourced ingredients.
  • Gin: There has been a surge in the popularity of gin, and many distilleries in Midlands now offer visitors tastings and tours.

Where to Stay in Midlands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many accommodation options in Midlands, ranging from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses. Here are some of the top places to stay in Midlands:

  • Fordoun Hotel and Spa: This luxurious five-star hotel boasts elegance and luxury from top to bottom. The hotel offers guests an award-winning spa, sumptuous dining, and beautiful views of the Midlands.
  • Granny Mouse Country House & Spa: This picturesque country house in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands offers visitors a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
  • Protea Hotel by Marriott Hilton: This three-star hotel, located in the suburb of Hilton, offers visitors modern and comfortable rooms, delicious cuisine, stunning views, and warm hospitality.

What to Buy in Midlands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Midlands is a shopping haven, offering visitors a wealth of unique and locally made products. Here are some souvenirs local products to take home:

  • Pottery and ceramics: Midlands’ history and scenery often inspire potters creating beautiful, functional, and decorative earthenware.
  • Locally produced gin, beer, and wine: Visitors who love a good tipple can take home a bottle of gin, beer or wine produced locally in the region.
  • Art and Crafts: Midlands is a haven for creative talent, and visitors can pick up artwork, intricate carvings, hand-woven baskets, or bespoke clothing pieces from markets and shops throughout the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Midlands

Midlands locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are expected to behave respectfully towards their cultural norms and customs. Here are some local culture customs in Midlands:

  • Clothing: Casual wear is generally acceptable, but more formal attire may be required for some occasions or dining experiences.
  • Language: Zulu and English are the most frequently spoken languages in Midlands.
  • Greeting: A friendly “hello” or “sawubona” is a typical greeting in the region.

Best Time to Visit Midlands

Midlands’ moderate climate makes it a perfect year-round destination, but the region is particularly beautiful in the summer months from November to March. However, visitors should bear in mind that peak season from December to January can be crowded, making it challenging to find accommodation and restaurants.

Do’s and Don’ts of Midlands

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind while exploring the region:

Do:

  • Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local culture and customs throughout your visit.
  • Explore the Outdoors: There is an array of outdoor adventures, including hiking and mountain biking, that visitors can explore in Midlands.

Don’t:

  • Walk Alone at Night: As with any unfamiliar location, it is generally not wise to walk alone after dark.
  • Be Disrespectful: Visitors should be mindful of the rural areas and towns in Midlands and be respectful of locals, their culture, and their property.

Safety and Health

Midlands is generally a safe and healthy destination. Visitors should keep in mind these tips for a healthier and safer stay in Midlands:

Safety in Midlands

  • Stay Alert: Visitors should be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and streets.
  • Stay Safe While Driving: Visitors should ensure that their vehicles are in good condition while driving as damaged roads can cause accidents.

Health in Midlands

  • Stay Hydrated: It is important to stay hydrated during your time in Midlands, particularly in summer.
  • Observe Food Hygiene: Visitors should also observe food hygiene practices and avoid eating uncooked or street food that could cause health issues.

Getting to Midlands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Midlands is situated in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa and can be easily accessed by various modes of transport. Here’s how to reach Midlands:

Airports Near Midlands

The nearest airport to Midlands is the King Shaka International Airport, which is situated approximately 116 kilometers away from the region. Visitors can hire a car or take a shuttle or bus to reach their destination in the Midlands region.

Bus Stations Near Midlands

Visitors can also reach Midlands by bus, with bus stations located in various cities throughout the country:

  • Greyhound South Africa: Greyhound is a bus operator that offers daily services to Midlands from cities such as Pretoria and Johannesburg.
  • Intercape: Intercape is a bus operator that offers daily services to Midlands from cities such as Cape Town and Durban.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a car or take a taxi from nearby cities and towns to arrive at Midlands.

How to Get Around in Midlands

Visitors can rent a car during their stay in Midlands or use metered taxis or ride-hailing options. Public transportation is limited outside main towns in Midlands, so driving is the most convenient option to get around the region.

Where to Go Next from Midlands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Midlands is situated in a region of South Africa that offers visitors many other exciting destinations and excursions. Here are some popular options for nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Drakensberg: The Drakensberg mountain range is a world heritage site and is popular with hikers and nature enthusiasts.
  • Pietermaritzburg: Pietermaritzburg is a historical city that offers visitors a glimpse into the KwaZulu-Natal’s colonial past, with several museums and cultural landmarks.
  • Durban: Durban is a coastal city with a vibrant nightlife, fantastic beaches, and world-class attractions like uShaka Marine World.

Conclusion

Midlands is a beautiful region that offers visitors a myriad of experiences, from its stunning natural wonders and outdoor adventures to its rich culture and cuisine. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan an unforgettable trip to Midlands by exploring its top attractions, hiking and biking trails, local culture, safety tips, transportation options, and much more. Whatever your interests or travel style, Midlands has something for everyone, so start planning your adventure to this magical region today!



    Pietermaritzburg