Zululand Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities and tours, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, cultural customs, safety and health guidelines in Zululand.


Introduction to Zululand

Located in the eastern region of South Africa, Zululand is a historic and culturally significant destination to discover natural attractions, numerous public parks and reserves, and wildlife encounters. The region covers a vast area of the KwaZulu-Natal province, covering the pristine coastline of the Indian Ocean and the rolling hills of the Zululand interior. Visitors can explore the best of the Zululand by discovering an array of attractions that include national parks, historical sites, cultural experiences, outdoor activities and food and drink scene.

List of Places to Visit in Zululand

Zululand is a home of several tourist destinations that offer diverse experiences to travelers.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Zululand has a rich history, and visitors to the region can experience this at several museums and historical sites, including:

  • Shakaland Zulu Cultural Village - This is where visitors can learn about Zulu Culture, History, and Heritage, including drumming, Zulu beer making, spear throwing and dancing.
  • Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve - The oldest reserve in Africa, a home of the big five, visitors can explore wildlife and natural beauty.
  • Fort Nongqayi Museum Village - A historical site of the 19th century reflecting the 500 years of Zulu culture, art, and traditions.
  • Ondini Historical Reserve - A site of historical importance being a royal residence of King Cetshwayo in the early 19th century.

Natural Attractions of Zululand: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Zululand’s natural landscape provides many attractions for visitors who have a passion for outdoor activities and breathtaking views, including:

  • iSimangaliso Wetland Park - A world heritage site, offers significant conservation of ecosystems, mangroves, and wildlife.
  • Tembe Elephant Park - Home of the largest elephants in Africa, extensive birdlife, and the rare forest survivors of Sand Forest.
  • Sodwana Bay National Park - An excellent attraction for diving enthusiasts to explore the underwater world and scuba diving, snorkeling and other adventure activities, including horseback riding and quad biking.
  • Zulu Nyala Game Reserve- Visitors to the reserve can experience a safari in the African bush while looking out for the big five.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Zululand

Zululand’s diverse landscapes offer varied routes to cater for all types of hikers and bikers.

  • Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Wilderness Trails - A 5 day guided hiking experience offers a chance to explore the game reserve environment.
  • The Bivane 4x4 Trail - A 3-day vehicle route, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offers water crossing and obstacles and camping areas.
  • Dlinza Forest Aerial Boardwalk - Visitors can enjoy an aerial view of birds, trails of butterflies, and native vegetation from this 10m high boardwalk.

Best Things to Do in Zululand: Activities and Tours

Zululand has plenty of activities and tours that appeal to all ages and interests.

  • Scuba diving and snorkeling in Sodwana Bay National Park.
  • Visiting Shakaland and seeing the traditional Zulu villages and the vibrant culture of the people.
  • Exploring Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve, a natural conservation area that is home to the Big Five.
  • A Zulu Nyala Game Reserve Safari, a chance to witness the wonders of African bush.
  • A guided tour of Ondini Historical Reserve and The Battlefields Route discovering the history of the Zulu battles and Kingdoms.
  • A visit to the KwaZulu Cultural Museum, showcasing more than 8000 pieces of art.
  • A horse ride at the Horse Safari trail, a beautiful way to explore hill scenery and rivers of Zululand.

Week-Long Itinerary for Zululand

Visitors can sample the best of Zululand by buying this week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival in Richards Bay and check-in
Day 2 Visit Shakaland and indulge in the culture
Day 3 Explore Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve
Day 4 Sodwana Bay National Park for a diving tour
Day 5 Visit the KwaZulu Cultural Museum
Day 6 Have a horse ride at the Horse Safari trail
Day 7 Visit Fort Nongqayi Museum Village

Food and Drink Scene of Zululand

Must-Try Dishes

Zululand cuisine focuses heavily on maize and traditional dishes include:

  • Umphokoqo - A meal of ground maize served with sour milk.
  • Chakalaka - A vegetable relish served with pap, which is a type of porridge.
  • Bobotie - A meatloaf dish with spices and raisins.
  • Biltong - Dried meat typically made from beef or game meat.

Local Beverages

Traditional local beverages include:

  • Zulu beer - A traditional drink made from maize, sorghum, and water
  • Rooibos tea - A soothing drink made from the leaves of a local shrub.

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

Zululand has a range of accommodation options to choose from, including:

  • Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge - A luxury game reserve with tented lodges, chalets, and suites that offer a wildlife experience.
  • Protea Hotel Umfolozi River - A hotel-style lodging facility catering for business and leisure visitors.
  • Umfolozi Hotel Casino Convention Resort- A hotel with different sections such as casino, restaurants, accommodation and conference facilities.

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

Some of the local products and souvenirs which visitors can bring home include:

  • African crafts - Handmade baskets, beaded bracelets and necklaces, wooden sculptures, and traditional masks.
  • Local spices and chocolates.

Local Culture and Customs of Zululand

Various cultural practices and customs define Zululand’s people, including traditional dress, music, and dancing. Travelers should respect these customs and ensure that they dress conservatively.

Best Time to Visit Zululand

The best time to visit Zululand is between May to September, which is the dry season. During this season, visitors can sightsee, head on safaris, and game drives.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zululand

Do:

  • Respect the local culture, customs, and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and buy some traditional souvenirs.
  • Practice the Tipping culture for excellent service
  • Get travel insurance to safeguard against emergencies.

Don’t:

  • Wear conservative clothing while on safari and around local villages.
  • Expose yourself excessively to wildlife by disturbing their habitats.
  • Walk around deserted areas or isolated places without a tour guide.

Safety and Health

Safety in Zululand

Zululand is safe to visit, but visitors should remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas or isolated places. Tourists should avoid travelling at night unless in groups or with tour guides.

Health in Zululand

Visitors should take precautionary measures against malaria by taking the recommended prophylactics and covering up at night. They should drink bottled water and be aware of other medical-related advantages that need attention.

Getting to Zululand: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Zululand

The Richards Bay Airport is the closest airport serving Zululand, and visitors can easily access a transfer service to get to their preferred destination.

Bus Stations Near Zululand

The closest bus station to Zululand is in Richard’s Bay town. Depending on their travel preferences, visitors can hire a car or take a bus from this point to the destination.

Other Options

Visitors can also take private transfers, Ubers or rental cars to explore Zululand and its surroundings.

How to Get Around in Zululand

Rentals cars are the best choice to get around in Zululand. Visitors can also hire a driver service or a tour guide who will drive or accompany them through their tours.

Where to Go Next from Zululand: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Several destinations are less than four hours away from Zululand, including:

  • Drakensbergs: A world heritage site with waterfalls and hiking trails.
  • Durban: A city renowned for its beaches, entertainment, food, and mix of cultures.
  • Swaziland: A nearby African country with a rich cultural heritage and wildlife.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Zululand is a must-visit destination for its rich cultural heritage, natural attractions, and an inexhaustible list of activities. Visitors are sure to leave Zululand with endless memories, stories to share and the desire to return again.



    Amatikulu Nature Reserve