KwaZulu Natal

KwaZulu-Natal is a land of wonderful contrasts that allow numerous insights into South African topography, life and history. Durban and Richards Bay are two of the country’s most important harbours. Maputuland is home to remote private game reserves and the wonderful unspoilt beaches of the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park, a haven for birdlife and turtles. To the north west of Durban lie the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, perfect for hiking and for touring the beautiful ‘Midlands Meander’. Drive further inland and you will come to the area known as the Battlefields which is steeped in the history of the Zulu and Boer wars.

Durban

The cosmopolitan capital of Natal, Durban, reflects the mix of the local Zulu, the colonisers of Dutch and British descent and the largest population of Indian expats in the world in its  culture and cuisine. The city centre contains many excellent examples of Art Deco and Art Nouveau architecture as well as some fine Victorian civil buildings, whilst bustling markets are a reminder of Durban’s diversity.

Safari in KwaZulu-Natal

The rolling hills of KwaZulu-Natal’s interior were for many centuries natural habitats for the ‘Big Five’. As in the rest of the country most of the animals are now confined to private reserves such as Thanda and Nambiti, largely for their own protection. The quality of lodges and rangers is excellent, the temperatures generally more hospitable than in the Eastern Cape and no malaria medication is required.

Drakensberg Mountains

Towering above the whole province and supporting the entire kingdom of Lesotho, the Drakensberg Mountains are a paradise for outdoor activity enthusiasts and hide great examples of San rock art. The steep and winding route up the Sani Pass to Lesotho through the clouds which descend every day at midday, is a fascinating journey, flanked by wild flowers in the summer.

The Battlefields

KwaZulu-Natal is the location of some of the most famous and bloody battles of the 19th century fought between the British and both the Zulu Nation and the Boers. There are sites throughout the province, but the greatest concentration is on the wide open plains and small granite koppies near the towns of Ladysmith and Dundee. The wars are vividly brought to life by the passion of the military historians who escort you around the sites.