south coast road trip kzn

Must Visit Road Trip Attractions On The KZN South Coast

Following my KZN South Coast Activities and KZN South Coast Attractions posts back in June/July 2015, this post explores more attractions to be found along the Ugu South Coast municipal region of KwaZulu-Natal. By Des Langkilde.

Table of Contents

This road trip can be done in a day but to really enjoy the attractions, I’d recommend staying over for a night or two.

Scottburgh, just 45 minutes from Durban, is the perfect seaside town to start a road trip from. It is close to other main attractions and has everything – from great beaches with warm water, an all year round temperate climate, excellent golf courses, and great scuba dive sites nearby.

Operated by Dream Vacations, the Blue Marlin Hotel has undergone several major refurbishments to restore this grande dame of South Coast hotels to its former glory. With a history spanning over 60 years, the Blue Marlin has been a family-holiday favourite for generations of local and international tourists alike. It is perfectly positioned overlooking Scottburgh’s main swimming beach and tidal rock pool, offers modern 3-star standard accommodation, and a range of facilities that include the Lighthouse Restaurant, the Blue Marlin Bar, an Outdoor Pool Bar, Spa, and Childcare services.

For more information contact Malthee Singh (General Manager) on +27 (0) 39 978 3361 or email [email protected] or visit bluemarlinhotel.co.za .

Nature Reserves

Heading out from Scottburgh toward Park Rynie, take the R612 towards Umzinto and follow the signs leading to Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve . This 2,189 ha nature reserve boasts elevated views of the Indian Ocean and wildlife, including zebra, blue wildebeest, bushbuck, blesbuck, impala, blue duiker, black-backed jackal, dassies, mountain and common reedbuck.

The reserve has over 300 bird species, including grey crowned cranes, crowned eagles, martial eagles, ground hornbills, trumpeter hornbills, secretary birds and black ducks. There are also several picnic sites set amongst the milkwood forest.

The KZN South Coast has 19 nature reserves and conservancies, however, many have been sadly neglected over the years. At Vernon Crookes, for example, I noticed that the boundary fence has all but disappeared.

For more information visit kznwildlife.com .

Oribi Gorge

Heading back to the coast from Vernon Crookes Reserve, keep driving along the N2 freeway and head inland where the N2 splits at Port Shepstone. Take the right-hand turnoff at Murchison and follow the signs to Oribi Gorge. There’s a lot of worthwhile attractions along this route; here are a few of them:

Leopard Rock

Leopard Rock Lookout’s restaurant deck overlooks the spectacular Umzimkulu River Valley at Oribi Gorge – a perfect setting for homemade country fare, prepared by hosts Sue and Andries Bruwer.

The English breakfast (included in the accommodation rate if you’re staying over) is a wholesome serving – it comes with sausages, bacon, eggs, toast, tomatoes – the works! For more information visit www.leopardrockc.co.za or to book call +27 (0)74 124 0902.

Oribi Vulture Viewing Hide

Initiated by BirdLife Trogons Bird Club in association with the landowner and UGU South Coast Tourism, The Oribi Vulture Viewing Hide Project was launched on 8th February 2014. What started as a small bird club project, quickly developed into a full conservation initiative to create awareness of the plight of vultures and to endeavour to change perceptions of this much-misunderstood species of bird.  This project is a not-for-profit voluntary association, with all proceeds going towards the maintenance of this very special site. 

The bird hide, which overlooks a vulture feeding station, offers a 2-hour ‘vulture viewing experiences’, which must be booked by prior arrangement through the project’s website vulturehide.blogspot.co.za or by emailing [email protected] . 

The Gorge Private Game Lodge & Spa

Set on a game reserve within the scenic Oribi Gorge, this elegant, secluded lodge is 14 km before Lake Eland Game Reserve. The Gorge offers villas and suites that provide a deluxe and well-appointed experience, as guests are treated to sheer luxury while they enjoy the glorious vistas in a magnificent setting.

There’s also a flagship restaurant, Catharina’s on 15, that offers a “field to fork”  dining experience that utilizes their own fresh produce and incorporates essential oils crops such as rosemary, rose geranium, sweet marjoram, peppermint, lemongrass and tea tree into the sensory dining experience. For more information visit thegorge.co.za .

Lake Eland Game Reserve

At Lake Eland, there’s a lot of activities to choose from including self-drive game viewing of the abundant wildlife and flora or walking across the 80m suspension bridge, as well as their exhilarating Zip Line Tour. There is a day-visitor charge but I guess if you tell the guard you’re going to the restaurant (which is pretty good and has great views), they may waive the fee. For more information visit lakeeland.co.za .

Shelley Beach

Heading back to Port Shepstone, take the R61 and the Shelley Beach turnoff just after the South Coast Mall and turn right onto Marine Drive (R620).

About 700m past the Shelly Centre Shopping Mall, just before the Mhlanga River bridge, you’ll find African Dive Adventures . Owned and operated by Roland and Beulah Mauz, this highly experienced German couple have been guiding dive groups for shark experiences along the Protea Banks reef for many years and have a wealth of information on the area that they willingly share (read my ‘ Best Year-Round Shark Diving Site in South Africa ‘ review).

If you’re planning a shark dive, I recommend doing that the following day as African Dive Adventures usually does morning dives, meeting at the shop at 7 am and launching around 7:45 am from the Shelley Beach harbour area. Maybe spend the night at San Lameer – see Southbroom below.

For more information call African Dive Adventures on +27 (39) 317 1483 or email [email protected] or visit afridive.com .

The Waffle House

Continuing the road trip along the R620, my favourite attraction, at any time of the day, is The Waffle House (read my review ‘ Waffling on about Waffles ‘).

The Waffle House is not just about good food – the ambience created by the location of the venue alongside a small stream, with a picturesque footbridge leading into indigenous forest pathways bordering the Ramsgate Lagoon and leading to the beach, adds to its attraction. The venue is also wheelchair friendly, has free WiFi and a children’s play area. For more information call +27 (0)39 314 9424 or visit  wafflehouse.co.za .

Pistols Saloon

Also in Ramsgate, on Old Main road, you’ll find Pistols Saloon . It’s really a pub and restaurant but the sheer number of wild-west cowboy bric-a-brac adorning the walls and just about every surface makes this an interesting museum. A regular patron at the bar is Huckleberry the donkey – his party trick is drinking Coke (from the can). For more information visit pistolssaloon.co.za or call + 27 (0)82 871 1241.

S’khumba Crafts

Between Ramsgate and Southbroom, you’ll come across S’khumba Crafts . It’s a leather workshop, studio and coffee bar situated in an enchanted forest and serves ice cold beer and homemade treats. For more information call +27 (0)39 316 8212 .

During my South Coast road trip, I checked-in at the San Lameer Resort Hotel & Spa , as Shelley Beach is a short 10-minute drive from here so I’d easily make my 7 am shark dive appointment the following morning.

Situated inside an exclusive and secure beach and golf estate, the hotel overlooks a serene lagoon. Inquisitive and opportunistic Vervet Monkeys roam the terraces, so one has to keep a wary eye on them to avoid losing your meal in the dining room.

The elegant open-plan rooms, decorated with a contemporary Indonesian style, are well-appointed with en-suite bathrooms, flat-screen television with selected DSTV channels, a mini-bar fridge, and air-conditioning.

For more information call +27 (0)39 313 0011 or visit sanlameerhotel.com

KwaNzimakwe

If you’re driving a 4×4 or want to do some mountain biking or trail running, then the KwaNzimakwe Multi-Trails Park is a must-visit attraction (read my review ‘ Multi-Trail Park and KwaXolo Caves ‘ for more about this attraction).

To get there, turn left onto the R61 after leaving San Lameer and take the Louis Botha Avenue turn-off just after the Mpenjati River bridge, and then turn right at the R69 road sign for KwaNzimakwe. You’ll have to pre-arrange to meet up with Victor Jaca, the tour facilitator at this newly launched Multi-Trail Park , as facilities have not been built as yet.

For more information call Victor Jaca on +27 (0)63 072 1873 or email [email protected] or visit https://www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za .

Port Edward

Back on the R61 heading towards Port Edward, Mac Banana cannot be missed – it literally jumps out at you with bright yellow signage on the National Road between Palm Beach and Munster.

To simply label it as a tourist attraction would be an understatement – it has everything for a family outing – from the Banana Café and Pancake Bar to the largest and food emporium that I’ve come across. For more information call + 27 (0)39 319 1033.

Munster Motor Museum

Munster Motor Museum  displays all kinds of vintage cars, bikes, and engines from steam through to 4 and 2 stroke internal combustion and rotary engines. There are all kinds of motoring and motorsport memorabilia as well as many interesting pictures.

A small nautical section shows off naval and merchant ship models together with illustrated stories of local shipwrecks. There is a large library filled with motor books and magazines dating back to the previous century and glass cabinets displaying model cars from yesteryear. For more information visit classiccarsmotorcycles.co.za .

The Estuary Hotel & Spa

If you need a break from your road trip at this point, The Estuary provides accommodation in 44 luxurious and comfortable rooms, all with spacious en-suite bathrooms with shower and bath that inter-leads to family rooms. The views overlooking the beach are amazing and The Fish Eagle Restaurant is one of the top five dining venues on the South Coast. For more information visit estuaryhotel.co.za .

Beaver Creek Coffee Estate

Continuing the journey along the R61, take the Zingoweni Road turnoff to arrive at Beaver Creek Coffee Estate. In keeping with their slogan “Disneyland for Coffee People” , you can sample and purchase coffee or take the daily ‘crop to cup’ tour that outlines the distinctive flavours of the worlds coffee regions and the processes involved in creating the perfect cup.

The Estate Cafe serves delicious meals and a range of freshly roasted coffee all day from 8 am till 4 pm while the daily tour starts at 12 noon. For more information visit beavercreek.co.za .

Red Desert Nature Reserve

To finish off your South Coast road trip, head back towards the R61 and turn right at Old Point Road (becomes Roy Road further along) and turn left at the T-Junction into Maurice Road. As the world’s smallest desert at 200 m in diameter and 11 hectares in its entirety, you can hit the trail on foot or mountain bike and check out the magnificent view over the Umtamvuna Estuary from the clifftop. Clearwater Trails offer walking or mountain biking trips along the Umtamvuna Gorge starting at the viewing deck upriver, and ending at the Umtamvuna Bridge. For more information visit reddesertnaturereserve.co.za .

This brings us to the end of our South Coast road trip, but of course, you could continue your journey and spend a night at the Wild Coast Sun for some gambling. For more things to see and do, visit the Ugu South Coast Tourism website or Visit KZN South Coast website.

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The perfect KwaZulu-Natal road trip [A first-timer’s guide]

Planning your first KwaZulu-Natal road trip? Then you’ve just landed on the perfect page to help you with that!

KwaZulu-Natal on the east coast of South Africa is highly undervalued as a tourist destination, and often overlooked in favor of destinations like the Kruger National Park and Cape Town . Having grown up in this amazing province we may be a little biased, but through exploring it ourselves have discovered that this sunny corner of South Africa offers it all – a vibrant and diverse culture, majestic mountains, untamed big five bush experiences and possibly the most unspoiled beaches in the country. Not to forget that KwaZulu-Natal’s winter weather (April-July) is the best in the country!

KwaZulu-Natal highlights:

• Unspoiled sandy beaches and warm water.
• Malaria-free big five game reserves.
• Two UNESCO World Heritage Sites (iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park).
• A vibrant and diverse blend of cultures.
• World-class diving and surfing destinations.

We would love you to come and explore this magical province for yourself, and have put together a list of our top picks in the province to get those travel juices flowing! Our dream KwaZulu-Natal road trip is a circular self-drive route covers 1600 km and takes in all of the highlights of KwaZulu-Natal including the berg, big five bush and spectacular beaches.

KwaZulu-Natal quick facts:

• Summer (November-February) weather is generally hot and humid, with some rain. February is the hottest month with temperatures in the low 30’s (°C).
• Winter (April-July) is the best time of year to visit where the weather usually consists of mild, clear days and cool nights, with temperatures in the upper teens to mid-20’s (°C).
• International airport: King Shaka International Airport.
• Main city: Durban (eThekwini).

KwaZulu-Natal road trip map

Suggested KwaZulu-Natal road trip route for flying in and out of King Shaka International Airport.

Stop 1: Explore the city sights of Durban and Umhlanga.

City life in KwaZulu-Natal is all about the beach. Explore Umhlanga and Durban, spending time on Umhlanga’s beach promenade or hit Durban’s Golden Mile by bicycle. Stop for coffee or an ice cream along the way. Visit some of the area’s attractions including  uShaka Marine World , the  KZN Sharks Board ,  Gateway Theatre of Shopping , the  Victoria Street Market  or if it is a weekend, some of the fantastic craft and foodie markets (e.g.  I Heart Market ) in and around town.

Recommended length of stay:  two full days (three nights).

Route suggestion:  King Shaka International Airport is a thirty minute drive out of Umhlanga, or forty minutes from the Durban CBD. Pick up a rental car at the airport and head straight to your accommodation to unpack and refresh. We’d recommend basing yourself in Umhlanga as it provides easy access to Durban’s attractions with more of a nightlife and range of restaurants to choose from.  Click here to check out available accommodation in Umhlanga.

Stop 2: Go on a watery safari on Lake St Lucia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

iSimangaliso’s Lake St Lucia is a must-do on any KwaZulu-Natal road trip. If you are pressed for time, this is one stop not to miss! The expansive waterways of South Africa’s largest estuary are home to a wealth of fish, bird and plant life, not to mention the highest density of hippos and crocodiles in southern Africa. Take in a truly African sunset from the water, or spend time exploring the pristine coastline and big game wilderness areas that surround Lake St Lucia.

St Lucia town is the ideal base from which to explore this area, and is well-equipped for tourists with a range of accommodation, restaurants and travel and tour operators (read more in our  detailed guide to St Lucia ). For guided experiences, we would highly recommend a late afternoon estuary boat cruise, joining a night drive on the Eastern or Western Shores, a snorkel safari at Cape Vidal or beach and bush horse riding from Bhangazi Gate. From mid-May to the end of September, a boat-based whale watching trip to view migrating humpback whales is also a must. Then take some time to explore the Eastern and Western Shores game sections at leisure, leaving plenty of time to enjoy any of the number of picnic and elevated view sites in the park to really get a feel for the enormous size of Lake St Lucia.

There are plenty of attractions around St Lucia town too including excellent birding from the Estuary Boardwalk and bush trails through the iPhiva small game section. As if this wasn’t enough, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is an easy day trip from town and there are plenty of operators who offer tours through the park from St Lucia town.

Recommended length of stay:  a minimum of two full days (three nights) will barely scratch the surface of everything this area has to offer, so we’d suggest spending closer to four or five.  Click here to check out available accommodation in St Lucia.

Route suggestion:  From Umhlanga, St Lucia is a 2 hour 30 minutes drive via the N2 national freeway and R618 regional road (via Mtubatuba). A bit of a detour,  the indigenous forests around Eshowe  are well worth a stop if you have the time.

Stop 3: Encounter Africa’s big five in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park.

KwaZulu-Natal has  a number of world-class big five game reserves  that offer unparalleled game viewing opportunities without the crowds of the Kruger National Park. South Africa’s oldest established game reserve, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is particularly special for the role it has played in rhino conservation in the country. There is also the opportunity to  join a multi day wilderness walk through the park  – on foot, sleeping under the stars in a pristine wilderness area is a life-changing experience that we’d highly recommend.

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is an  Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife managed-park. There is both self-catering or catered accommodation available for guests and the option to visit the park as a self drive or fully guided experience.

Recommended length of stay:  If it were up to us we’d be happy to be left in the bush forever, but at an absolute minimum you should spend one night in the reserve to take advantage of evening and morning game drives – periods of peak animal activity in the park. If pressed for time, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi can be visited as a day’s outing from St Lucia, or en route from Durban to destinations further north, entering at Nyalazi Gate in the south and exiting via Memorial Gate in the north of the park.  Click here to check out available accommodation in Hluhluwe.

Route suggestion:  Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve is a 1 hour drive from St Lucia via the R618, or a 2 hour 40 minute drive from Durban.

Stop 4: Dive South Africa’s coral reefs at Sodwana Bay.

South Africa’s oceans are full of life, and the range of topography and water temperatures along the coastline offer fantastic and varied diving opportunities. There is only one place to dive on subtropical coral reefs though and of course, that is in KwaZulu-Natal!

Sodwana Bay is a diver’s mecca with dives to suit all levels of experience, as well as the opportunity to blow bubbles with some bigger animals including whale sharks, dolphins, manta rays, turtles and any number of shark species.

For non-divers, Sodwana Bay’s unspoiled coastline is the perfect place to relax, swim and explore and it is a good base from which to day trip and explore  coastal attractions in iSimangaliso’s Coastal Forest section  including Lake Sibaya and Mabibi. In fact, it is possible to drive via the Coastal Forest section of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park en route to destinations further north and we’d highly recommend this route if you have a 4×4 vehicle.

Recommended length of stay:  Depending on your interests, anything from two full days (three nights) is great for Sodwana Bay.  Click here to check out available accommodation in Sodwana Bay.

Why not extend your stay and  complete diving certifications during your time in town ?

Route suggestion:  Sodwana Bay is a 1 hour 46 minute drive from Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve. Remember to turn off the N2 at Hluhluwe town and onto the R22 that will take you to Mbazwana. From here, follow the signs for Sodwana Bay.

Stop 5: Take a step back in time at Kosi Bay.

Kosi Bay is one of those uniquely African destinations. Visiting the lakes feels like a step back in time; take in the scene of Thonga people at work in their fish kraals while pink flamingos feed in the shallows, hippos laze in the water, and a fish eagle calls from a tree nearby. A truly special place.

While at Kosi Bay, we’d strongly recommend a cruise on the lakes, as well as a visit to Kosi Mouth to check out the fish traps from up close and to  snorkel Aquarium Reef . During the months of November to February there is also the opportunity to join a turtle tour to view loggerhead and leatherback turtles nesting on the sandy beaches. Although the  Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife rest camp  on Lake KuNhlange is accessible with a sedan, visiting the mouth requires a 4×4 vehicle. There are local operators who offer these trips to visitors.

Recommended length of stay:  One full day (two nights) at a minimum.  Click here to check out available accommodation in Kosi Bay.

Route suggestion:  From Sodwana Bay, Kosi Bay is a 1 hour 45 minute drive on the R22. For the more adventurous, follow the 4×4 route through iSimangaliso’s Coastal Forest section and enjoy some beautiful remote beaches along the way, or add in an overnight stay at Mabibi or Rocktail Bay (4×4 required).

Stop 6: More time in the bush at Tembe Elephant Park or EKZNW’s Ndumo, uMkhuze and Ithala Game Reserves.

We just can’t get enough of the bush! Following our KwaZulu-Natal road trip route puts you in close proximity to a number of our favourite game reserves, each with something unique to offer.

Tembe Elephant Reserve  is a community-run and highly affordable big five destination. The sand forests are a unique feature to this reserve, however it will require that you have a 4×4 to enter the park. There is a great lodge to stay at within the reserve offering full board and two game drives a day while contributing directly to job creation, community upliftment and conservation, this will be one of your favourite stops.

In contrast  Ndumo Game Reserve  is a very small reserve just west of Tembe. Alive with smaller game, it is a quieter reserve with a number of special habitats including fig forests and pans that attract incredible bird life.

uMkhuze Game Reserve is one of EKZNW’s flagship reserves and was recently incorporated into the greater iSimangaliso Wetland Park conservation corridor.  Guided walks through the reserve’s ancient Sycamore Fig forest  are truly magical.

Lastly,  Ithala Game Reserve  is all about the scenery, with a rugged topography of mountains and rivers. The roads in this reserve are quite bad so it would be best to stay at the Nshondwe camp and arrange game drives with the camp.

Break up your trip by stopping at as many of these destinations as you’d like –  Tembe Elephant Park  is a fully catered stay while the  Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife reserves offer a range of catered or self-catering options.

Recommended length of stay:  Once again if it were up to us, we’d stay forever, but at an absolute minimum one night with some late afternoon and early morning game viewing will afford you the best chance to spot elusive game.

Route suggestion:  From Kosi Bay, travel time to Tembe Elephant Reserve is 50 minutes via the P522, to Ndumo Game Reserve is 1 hour 30 minutes via the P522, to uMkhuze Game Reserve is 2 hours 30 minutes via the R22 and to Ithala Game Reserve is 3 hours 30 minutes via the P522 and R69. For something a little different that is also in the area,  jump on a house boat and fish and laze your days away on Lake Jozini  (2 hours 30 minutes from Kosi Bay via the P522).

Stop 7: Be moved by the KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields.

“KwaZulu” means “the place of the Zulus”, and KwaZulu-Natal is named for the mighty Zulu nation who under King Shaka’s rule once controlled all of the north-eastern regions of South Africa. No other province has been so pivotal in the struggle for power between the British, Boer and Zulu in the early days of the country, and no region more so than the battlefields around Dundee in central KZN.

All three powers of the early South Africa met here – the Boer and Zulu in the 1830s ,  British and Zulu during the Anglo-Zulu war of 1879, and British and Boer during the late 1800s/early 1900s. This region is the site of military legend like the battles of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift, and  walking the well-preserved battlefields  while imagining the war cries of Zulu and British alike is both an incredibly eerie and moving experience.

Some interest in the history of South Africa is vital to really appreciate this stop, but if this is at all your cup of tea then we’d strongly recommend  joining a battlefield tour  run by the Rattray family out of  Fugitives’ Drift Lodge .

Recommended length of stay:  The battlefield tours will take a full day, so it is best to allow a full day (two nights) here at least.

Route suggestion:  Dundee is a 5 hour drive from Kosi Bay, 4 hours 25 minutes from Ndumo Game Reserve, 4 hours from Tembe Elephant Park, 4 hours from uMkhuze Game Reserve or 2 hours from Ithala Game Reserve.

Stop 8: Hike, refresh and reconnect in the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg.

The highest mountain range in southern Africa, the majestic uKhahlamba-Drakensberg mountains form the border between South Africa and Lesotho, the aptly named “kingdom in the sky”. This imposing range has been a place of refuge for centuries, and plenty of caves in the area are decorated with bushman paintings and relics.

A visit to the Drakensberg is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and oneself. There are a range of day, overnight and multi day hiking trails for outdoors enthusiasts, or simply beautiful and easily accessible picnic sights and viewpoints from which to enjoy the splendor of the mountain scenery. For the adventurous,  Sani Pass in the southern Drakensberg  region is one of the world’s most iconic mountain passes and a gateway to explore Lesotho, and  the Sentinel Peak hike  in the northern berg provides access to the top of the Tugela Falls, the world’s second-highest waterfall.

There are a number of  Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife managed resorts in the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park offering catered or self-catering accommodation.

Recommended length of stay:  Depending on your interests, anything from two full days (three nights) is good for the Drakensberg. (PS – if you want to do the Sentinel Peak Hike, we’re highly recommend staying at  Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge )

Route suggestion:  Because of the mountainous terrain, access to the northern, central or southern Drakensberg destinations is easiest as an out-and-back drive from the N3 national freeway. The northern berg destinations (e.g. Didima) are approximately 2 hours from Dundee, central berg destinations (e.g. Giant’s Castle) are approximately 2 hours from Dundee and the southern berg (e.g. Garden Castle and Sani Pass) are approximately 4 hours 30 minutes from Dundee.

If you’re going to be doing any hiking make sure you go prepared with a good pair of hiking shoes! ( These are the ones Bevan uses  and  these are the ones Jill uses ).

Stop 9: Drive via the Midlands Meander to King Shaka International Airport.

The Natal Midlands is a picturesque farming region just beyond the Drakensberg foothills. This region has become well-known as an idyllic countryside escape and the  Midlands Meander  is a curated route that connects visitors with artists, craftsmen and foodie stops, with romantic hideaways and country retreats tucked along the way. Overnight in this area to enjoy all that it has to offer, or make a day’s outing of your drive back towards Kind Shaka International Airport and stop as much as you can along the way.

Recommended length of stay:  Although the Midlands Meander can be driven in a day, we’d recommend anything from a 1-3 night stay to enjoy the peace and beauty (and fine restaurants!) of the area.  Click here to check out available accommodation in the Midlands.

Route suggestion:  The Midlands Meander extends from Mooi River towards Hilton on the N3 and surrounding regional roads. Mooi River is 2 hours away from King Shaka International Airport.

Still interested in seeing more? Add in a loop down the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast.

KwaZulu-Natal is a province blessed with beautiful beaches. Unlike the Elephant Coast where the coastline stretches for kilometers with barely a footprint, the province’s South Coast is dotted with small holiday towns that offer endless days of sun, sea and surf.

World class wreck and reef diving is available at Aliwal Shoal, and for surfers, destinations like Scottburgh and Umzumbe are a treat.

Escape to the far South Coast and explore the  strelitzia  lined coastline around Trafalgar, or beautiful rocky points and sandy bays of Leisure Bay and St Micheal’s on Sea. Just inland from Port Shepstone, the terrain collapses into the spectacular  Oribi Gorge  with a  high-adrenaline gorge swing  and plenty of hiking and picnicking on offer, and to the far south, Port Edward and its bridge over the Mtamvuna River is the gateway to even wilder territory beyond…

Route suggestion:  From King Shaka International Airport, the South Coast is a glorious 200 km (2 hour) stretch of warm water and golden beaches to explore.

A few things to remember on your KwaZulu-Natal road trip

• South Africans drive on the left hand side of the road – you’ll want to come to grips with that as soon as possible.
• This route involves toll roads which are a nominal fee (less than R100 per toll booth). You can pay with a credit card, but to be safe take cash to avoid any nasty surprises.
• Visitors can self-drive through the public game reserves, however, you will still need to be very cautious of wild animals and avoid antagonising them by getting too close with your car.
• If a route is marked 4×4, believe it.
• Avoid driving after dark in the more rural areas of KZN. There are a lot of people and animals in the road in some sections so do all your essential driving during the day.

Mix and match the destinations we’ve suggested to plan your perfect KwaZulu-Natal road trip and let us know what you chose in the comments below. And be sure to drive safely. 🙂

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The Ultimate KZN Road Trip Itinerary

Posted by editor | Sep 2, 2019 | In The Spotlight , Travel Blog | 0 |

The Ultimate KwaZulu-Natal Road Trip Itinerary

Boasting a myriad of unique attractions and natural regions within relatively close proximity to one another, KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa offers the ultimate road trip itinerary.

From grand mountain scenery, to incredible Big five wilderness areas, to fine tropical beaches, KwaZulu-Natal, or KZN as it is called by the locals, is a diverse province that combines raw natural beauty with modern sophistication and cultural heritage. Road-tripping around KZN offers a tantalising taste of all the authentic African highlights that should be on every travellers’ bucket list.

To truly experience the best of this unique and multifaceted destination, we recommend doing a road trip around the province. Starting at the mountains and ending off at the beach, here’s a breakdown of what we believe to be the ultimate berg, bush and beach KZN road trip itinerary:

DRAKENSBERG MOUNTAINS

Situated a two to three-hour drive from Durban (the only city in KZN with an international airport), the Drakensberg Mountains is South Africa’s only great mountain range, and the majority of it lies within KZN. These exquisite mountains are a World Heritage Site and offers a range of outdoor pursuits, including hiking, horse riding, gold and other adventure activities.

WHERE TO STAY: THREE TREE HILL LODGE

Set in the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains, Three Tree Hill is a warm and intimate country lodge in the Spioenkop Game Reserve offering breathtaking scenery and luxury accommodation. This eco-friendly lodge is the ideal setting for travelers wanting to explore the Drakensberg and the Anglo-Boer war battlefields in the area.

Note: Three Trees provides a useful table to help you plan your trip, depending on your destination. Take a look at it here: http://threetreehill.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/KZN-Drive-Timetable-One-page.pdf

MKUZE/HLUHLUWE

Venturing out of the mountains and heading more towards the coast, we recommend that the next stop on your road trip be one of the many magnificent wildlife reserves in the Mkuze/Hluhluwe area. About four to five hours’ drive from the Drakensberg, the area is teeming with some of the best Big Five sanctuaries in the country.

WHERE TO STAY: RHINO RIVER LODGE, MANYONI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

Rhino River Lodge is a family-style safari lodge built on the banks of the Msunduze River in the Manyoni Private Game Reserve. This 23,000-hectare private game reserve is located just 30kms north of Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park and is renowned its abundance of wildlife, as well as its wonderful birding opportunities. Rhino River Lodge offers a variety of accommodation options to suit the needs of every traveler, as well as two daily game drives, delicious food, and wonderfully welcoming staff.

ISIMANGALISO WETLAND PARK

Lapped by the warm water of the Indian Ocean, KwaZulu-Natal’s coastline offers a seemingly endless stretch of splendid beaches. While Durban might be the most popular beach destination in KZN for its superb surfing opportunities and beautiful boardwalks, it’s certainly not the only option for a beach escape. For a more remote beach experience, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park is the place to go. Located about two to three hours’ drive from Mkuze, iSimangaliso has over 200km of pristine beaches just waiting to be explored.

WHERE TO STAY: THONGA BEACH LODGE

Situated on the pristine shores of the Maputaland Coast, in the heart of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Thonga Beach Lodge is a 24-bedded luxury lodge offering one of the most exclusive seaside experiences in KwaZulu-Natal. Thonga is the perfect place from which to discover one of the last unspoiled beaches left in Africa.

Things to know before you go:

Doing a self-driving road trip in KwaZulu-Natal is quite safe as the roads are well maintained and signposted. Here are a few things to be aware of though:

• Travelers coming from overseas will need to ensure that they have a valid International Drivers Permit in order to legally hire a vehicle and drive in South Africa.
• South Africans drive on the left side of the road.
• Always watch out for animals and pedestrians on the road.
• Be wary of reckless drivers
• Always obey road rules and speed limits to avoid altercations with the traffic police.

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The magnificent KZN South Coast stretches from Scottburgh in the north, all the way to Port Edward in the south and is a very popular holiday destination for so many. Next time you find yourself in the area, be sure to check out these five fun things to do!

Shark Cage Diving in Rocky Bay

Come dive with Sharks in their natural environment @CageDive @durban_kzn @dbntourism @infosouthcoast @MyKzn @MeetSA_ pic.twitter.com/McYKmhlwR4 — Shark Cage Diving KZN (@CageDive) February 8, 2022

Why you should visit: With over 25 years of Scuba Diving experience, both in diving with sharks and diving coral reefs, Shark Cage Diving KZN are experts in cage diving with sharks at Aliwal Shoal, south of Durban. With no diving experience needed, shark cage diving is open for anyone eight years and above. The whole excursion is two hours long and includes the diving experience as well as viewing of sharks from the boat at Aliwal Shoal.

How much does it cost: Enquire for pricing.

How to get there: Situated just 60 minutes drive from Durban and five minutes from Scottburgh on the South Coast., at 1 Old Main Road, Rocky Bay, Park Rynie.

ALSO READ: Five family-friendly things to do in Ramsgate, KwaZulu-Natal

Riverbend Crocodile Farm in Southbroom

Why you should visit:  Opened in 1981, the Riverbend Crocodile is an iconic tourist attraction on the South Coast. It’s the perfect place to spend the day with the kids, check out the crocodiles and snakes, or attend the croc feedings and hatchings (when scheduled).

How much does it cost:  R85 per adult, R70 for children. 

How to get there:  The farm is situated on Old Main Road, Southbroom.

ALSO READ: KZN South Coast Tourism launches new adventure tour

Horse rides on the beach

Experience the freedom & beauty of KwaZulu Natal on horseback with Selsdon Park Estate Beach Horse Rides. There are trails that take you onto unspoilt beaches or coastal forests with panoramic sea views! #BeHere #KZNHasItAll #BelieveIt pic.twitter.com/IY07zrnVi0 — Tourism KZN (@TourismKZN) November 21, 2020

Why you should visit: Just 20 minutes from Shelly Beach on the Hibiscus South Coast in Kwa-Zulu Natal you will find Selsdon Park Estate , a working sugar cane farm that offers exciting beach horse and pony rides. Definitely considered one of the better ways to take in the fantastic beauty of the South Coast!

How much does it cost: Rides cost R750 per person for a 1.5 hour beach ride. Bookings are essential.

How to get there: Find them at Selsdon Park Estate Cottage, Selsdon Park Farm, Marina Beach, South Coast.

ALSO READ: KZN’s Babanango Game Reserve achieves Big 5 status

Lake Eland Game Reserve, South Coast

The reason why we visited Lake Eland Game Reserve – the suspension bridge pic.twitter.com/GKDCnzzakM — ℝ𝕌ℕ 𝕆ℕ ℂ𝕆𝔽𝔽𝔼𝔼 (@NicolaLMeyer) April 27, 2021

Why you should visit:  Situated just 40 minutes from Port Shepstone, Lake Eland Game Reserve, is 2 500 hectares of grassland, bushveld, coastal forest and wetlands in the Oribi Gorge area. A large, fascinating Eland-shaped lake can be found on the reserve, giving rise to its name. For a hit of adrenaline, dare to walk the 80m suspension bridge, one of main highlights at Lake Eland, or take a unique zip-line tour. Other activities include self-driven or guided game drives, scooter tours, 4×4 trails, mountain biking, fishing, horseback riding – there’s definitely something for everyone. 

How much does it cost:  Day visitors entrance fees are R75 per adult and R45 per child. Enquire for individual activity prices. 

How to get there:  Lake Eland is around 40km from Port Shepstone, and 160km from central Durban – both via the N2.

ALSO READ: Three beautiful camping spots on KZN’s Dolphin Coast to check out

Butterfly Valley in Ramsgate, KZN South Coast

Have you visited Ramsgate Butterfly Valley? http://t.co/sS0saFzMwf #ramsgatekzn #lovethekznsouthcoast pic.twitter.com/QK0PdnNwVJ — Ramsgate KZN (@RamsgateKZN) March 3, 2015

Why you should visit:  A unique attraction, Butterfly Valley in Ramsgate, is a butterfly farm that offers educational tours. Learn about South African butterflies and view their entire life cycle, first hand. The farm also houses their “curious creatures” – tarantulas, scorpions and the like! 

How much does it cost:  R75 for adults and R40 for children.

How to get there:  Situated on Fascadale Road, Ramsgate Beach, Ramsgate.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY SUNDEEKA MUNGROO

Sundeeka Mungroo

Sundeeka Mungroo is a content writer, foodie and all-round adventure-seeker. She's a graduate of the University of South Africa with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature, and has worked as a copywriter and editor in the digital marketing industry. Sundeeka currently writes for I Love South Africa and The South African. She lives in the beautiful Mother City and loves exploring all that South Africa has to offer.

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7 of the best road trips in KZN

Updated March 27, 2019, 9:38 a.m. | By Sponsored

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Discover hidden gems while exploring some of Kwa-Zulu Natal's best road trips. 

The holiday season is here - the perfect time to do something fun and adventurous. One of the best ways to ensure you have a fun-filled holiday is to go on a road trip.

READ:  Fun activities for kids in KZN this school holidays

To ensure you have the best road trip, it’s crucial that you plan:

• Decide on a destination and choose a route.
• Get your car checked and ensure that it’s in the right condition for you to travel with it – check tyres, battery, and lights.
• Have enough money for petrol, toll gates, and anything that might come along the way. 
• Travel during hours when you will get to properly see the road and your surroundings.
• Pack different types of clothing just in case the weather changes. 
• Schedule stops and find attractions.
• If you are planning to sleep on the road, book hotels in advance.
• Save map routes offline, just in case your internet fails you while on the road.
• Don’t forget your emergency tool kit.

Below are seven amazing road trips you can enjoy in Kwa-Zulu Natal.

Maloti Drakensberg Route

This is one of KZN’s best road trips. The Maloti Drakensberg route has exotic forests, and the route covers 13 000km of South Africa’s most breath-taking mountain scenery. It also has thousands of San rock art paintings, species of flora, and falls.

The Boston Bulwer Beat Route

Located between the Midlands and the Southern Drakensberg, the Boston Bulwer Beat is an amazing road trip.

Travellers can spoil themselves with abseiling, horse racing, mountain biking, tubing, tandem paragliding and rafting along the way. 

The Amble Route

The Amble, also called the Albert Falls Amble, is a complementary route to the Midlands Meander and Boston Beat. At the heart of the route is Albert Falls Dam, and you will also find nature reserves, lakeside resorts, picnic sites, historic buildings, and game farms.

The Valley of Thousand Hills Route

Take a road trip from Durban towards Pietermaritzburg using the R103 to M13.

This route promises to be lots of fun. You will get to see the breath-taking Valley of a Thousand Hills, visit cultural villages to learn about the Zulu culture and you can even stop at the Game Reserve. For adrenalin lovers, there is quad biking, zip lines, and different spots and attractions. Kids can have fun at the Animal Farm.

Kwa-Zulu Natal Birding Route

The Kwa-Zulu Natal birding route is a perfect road trip for the bird lovers. It is considered southern Africa's birding diversity hotspot and conserves over 600 recorded species of South African Birdlife.

The route includes northeast, northwest and southern Zululand, further sub-divided into four birding areas: Eshowe, Melmoth, Mtunzini, and Richards Bay.

The Freedom Route

Learn more about African heroes while enjoying a drive around Kwa-Zulu Natal.

The museums alongside the route provide a unique experience of the historical stories of South African heroes such as Mahatma Gandhi, Alan Paton, Albert Luthuli, and Nelson Mandela.  

The Freedom Route starts at Luthuli Museum in Groutville, north of Durban and ends at Nelson Mandela Captured site, at Howick on the R103. The drive is about an hour and a half, but you need to spend time in the museum, to fully enjoy the experience.

The Beer Route

Take a look into the world of beer brewing.  The Beer Route offers travellers the opportunity of enjoying a beer tasting and to see beer products produced by the breweries of the Zulu Kingdom.

This route, starting in the Midlands, takes you to several breweries in Durban, Prospecton, Midlands, Wartburg, Battlefields of Dundee, and Eshowe. 

To find out more information about Durban, visit  http://visitdurban.travel/

READ:  7 of the best Instagram spots in Durban

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Bustling city life

Gateway to durban: the ultimate road trip planner.

I I f you haven't thought about it yet, how about planning a last-minute escape to Durban? Not only is Durbs one of the best coastal spots in SA to soak up summer, but the road there can be part of your holiday if you take a few pointers from our handy Durban road-trip planner.

There are two main ways travellers head to Durban and we know how to make the road trip worthwhile from every angle. 

From Johannesburg  You might think of the N3 as a one-way street to the sea, but don't miss out on all the great stops along the way. Take two days to get to the coast, and two days on your way back to Johannesburg. And be sure to go a little off-course every now and then. 

Some favourite diversions along the way 

Clarens  This quaint place is a great stop-off if you happen to be travelling from Gauteng to KZN and vice versa. Clarens is a key point along the scenic Highlands route, which includes the Golden Gate Highlands National Park – linking the towns of Harrismith, Bethlehem and Fouriesburg, all along the Lesotho Highlands, the Malutis and the Drakensberg. 

Situated roughly three hours' drive from Johannesburg, in the embrace of the beautiful Maluti Mountain range, the charming town is known as the Jewel of the Free State – and there is so much more to it than its outstanding art. Some have called it a brewery with a town built around it, so expect some great craft beers to quench your thirst after a long drive.

T T he Drakensberg   If you're looking for a road trip to remember, the road around the iconic Drakensberg Mountain range is something every traveller should enjoy at least once in their lives. 

This mountain range, which is also the highest in South Africa, is like a playground for adventure seekers. Whether you’re a tame hiker, extreme mountain biker or vertigo-seeking climber, this mountain rangewill have you coming back for more and more. It's also the perfect spot to train your little ones, from a young age, to let the adventure spirit find them.

• When to visit
• How to get here

T T he Midlands  Four potters, a weaver and a couple of artists. This almost sounds like the start of a joke, but as a matter of fact, they were the ones who came up with the idea of the now famous Midlands Meander in KwaZulu-Natal. When this group of artists got together on a summer’s evening in 1985, the concept of a Rolling Exhibition, where visitors could come and see their work a few times a year, was born. Over the years the Midlands Meander family has grown and now has more than 150 members, with many of the original members still remaining.

This collection of routes in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal leads to artistic, exciting and beautiful places. Small towns and places like Howick, Underberg and Nottingham Road are all scattered around here, and make for magical exploring.

Farm stalls you need to stop at 

Rotunda Farm Stall  The shop provides fresh locally-sourced produce from farms in the Midlands area, as well as a selection of imported items.

What to buy: Locally-made cheese

Piggly Wiggly  Piggly Wiggly has grown into a formidable force in the Midlands, offering a one-stop-shop for all good country experiences. The Coffee Shop serves up generous breakfasts and is the perfect lunchtime spot. There's everything from fresh organic food, to incredible home decor, ceramic painting, candle dipping, and plenty of kid’s activities.

What to buy: Locally-produced cheeses 

Zandspruit Farm Stall Some of the very best biltong in South Africa comes from this small roadside farm stall at the bottom of Van Reenen’s Pass, just off the N3. A South African road trip staple. 

What to buy: Biltong

Through the Eastern Cape  If you're not coming from the northern side of the Drakensberg and Lesotho, you'll most likely be heading through the Eastern Cape to Durbs in KZN. If you are, consider yourself lucky. The Eastern Cape is one of the most beautiful destinations and perhaps one of the most forgotten as a holiday-destination. 

Take time to explore this wild child of South Africa on your way to the coast. But be warned, you might get hooked on the Eastern Cape and choose to stay on for the whole holiday. Whether you're in the mood for an informal seaside escape, a safari, or a choice of scintillating city diversions, you're sure to find what you're looking for in the Eastern Cape. Scenic beauty is one of the most striking characteristics of the region, ranging from the lush, evergreen Tsitsikamma Forest to the rugged Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area, the southern slopes of the Drakensberg and the arid Great Karoo.

Sunshine Coast  There is a stretch of coast in SA that's as beautiful as the Garden Route and the East Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, though not as main stream. And what you'll find along the Sunshine Coast is a unique slice of coastal paradise that makes for a pretty special beach holiday break. 

The route meanders past the sights of the coastline between Port Elizabeth and East London, taking you through a number of villages such as Colchester, Bathurst, Alexandria, Kenton-on-Sea, Port Alfred and Kidds Beach.

This unique route’s most striking attraction is the spectacular sandy coastline, consisting of a variety of river channel connections, resorts and great activities for everyone to enjoy along the way. It's also home to perhaps the most secretive of secret beaches in SA - which is why we love it. 

Apart from the beaches, though, there is so much more to explore. 

The small village of Qunu seems like any other in the Butterworth surroundings. 

Even the large pink home built for the Mandela family does not overshadow the colourful, round huts standing alongside. It pales in comparison to the stately residence erected for South Africa’s latest president. Life in Qunu is quiet and peaceful. Goats frequent the streets of the village hub, where a single fuel station and one or two supply stores can be found.

But people don’t come to Qunu for supplies or spectacles. They come to remember and see what it was that made Mandela the ‘Father of a Nation’.  

King William's Town   The Eastern Cape is the birthplace of many of our great South African democratic leaders. Not only is it where the first democratic leaders of our country were born, but also where they first implemented their democratic practices. 

Among their members are Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki and Steve Bantu Biko – who has a museum and memorial centre in his honour in King William's Town, Eastern Cape. 

Some people argue that Biko would have been a leader as great as – if not even greater than – Nelson Mandela had he not been murdered by the small, fearful minority who ruled during Apartheid. 

King William's Town is a place of reflection in South Africa – a place all South Africans should visit in their lives. 

Mac Bananas & Banana Cafe & Pancake House

This spot is a local-loved shopping, entertainment and destination hub which offers a Lifestyle Centre anchored by a Food Emporium, many restaurants and over 20 activities for the whole family to enjoy. It's a road trip haven if ever there was one. 

What to buy: Pancakes 

Red Apple Farm Stall

The Red Apple is a treasure trove of exquisite and interesting things. Apart from the typical 'padstal' finds and moreish food, the Red Apple prides itself on creating and drinking master coffees.

What to buy: Good coffee 

Oakly Farm Stall

A sweet spot with delectable fresh bread and homemade pies which are baked daily. The homemade gingerbeer is also a win. 

What to buy: Fresh farm bread

• Who to contact?
• When to visit?
• What to pack?

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Wanderlust Movement | A South Africa Travel Blog

24+ Incredibly EPIC Things to Do in KZN, South Africa

April 15, 2021 by Lauren Melnick

Last Updated on March 5, 2024 by Lauren Melnick

This KZN guide was created in collaboration with South Africa Tourism. I hope you enjoy this roundup of some of the best things to do in KwaZulu Natal!

Like its rolling hills, towering mountains, and spectacular coastline, KZN is a province with endless layers.

While Durban usually steals the spotlight, it’s one of the least interesting parts of KZN.

Beyond the borders of Durban is where you’ll find the heart of KwaZulu Natal. The foothills are home to historical battles, while the coastline boasts some of the best scuba diving and whale watching in the country.

Further inland, you can explore Zululand and experience some of the most beautiful and unique vistas of South Africa.

The best part, though?

There is an entire food, craft beer, and gin scene brewing in the background.

I’ve explored different parts of KZN throughout the years, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned about the province, it’s that it is the epitome of “choose your own adventure”.

No matter what your travelling style, whether you’re a foodie, culture lover, history buff, or adrenaline junkie, there is something for you!

So without further adieu, here are some of the best things to do in KZN!

Psst…Want more KZN travel inspiration? Check out these other posts:

• The Ultimate iSimangaliso Wetland Park Travel Guide
• The Best Drakensberg Hikes That’ll Take Your Breath Away
• Babanango Game Reserve: Where Conservation & Community Meet
• Hiking the Mnweni Circuit: A Spectacular 3-Day Drakensberg Hike
• The Perfect Itinerary for an Epic South Africa Road Trip
• The Best Game Reserves in KZN for an Unforgettable Safari Experience

Table of Contents

Book a Sunset Game Drive Through iSimangaliso Wetlands Park

Dive with sea turtles at sodwana bay, camp on top of the highest waterfall in africa, drive to the top of sani pass, book a whale watching tour in st. lucia, feel the need for speed with a quad biking tour, hike into the drakensberg searching for ancient rock paintings, go on safari in south africa’s oldest game reserve, get a dose of adrenaline at oribi gorge, get your caffeine fix with a coffee tour at beaver creek estate in port edward, enjoy lunch with a view at blueberry cafe along the midlands meander, feast on all things nougat at wedgewood nougat, sip on a g&t or four at nottingham road brewery, taste zulu blonde beer in eshowe, visit the spion kop battlefield in the drakensberg, visit fort nongqayi for a dose of zulu history, stop by the valley of the kings in eshowe, visit the nelson mandela capture site, go on a zulu village walking tour in the drakensberg, get high at the dlinza forest aerial walkway in eshowe, explore the smallest desert in the world in port edward, spot the mysterious serpent beast of howick falls, go on a budget adventure at ngodini bunduz, where to stay in kzn, adventurous things to do in kzn.

Let’s start with my firm favourites. A visit to the province would be woefully incomplete without some of the top adventurous things to do in KZN on your itinerary.

“iSimangaliso? Don’t know her.”

If that thought went through your head after reading the title, I’m stoked to introduce you to one of South Africa’s gems. The wetlands park is our first UNESCO World Heritage Site and stretches from St. Lucia to the Mozambique border.

Over the last couple of decades, iSimangaliso has re-introduced naturally occurring wildlife to the area, making it a unique safari destination.

On the Eastern Shores, you’ll drive past herds of grazing buffalo, zebra, rhino, and elephants and stop for lunch on the beach at Mission Rocks.

On the Western Shores, you’ll find more wildlife like giraffe, duiker, nyala, wildebeest, and more!

Want to improve your chances of spotting game without the hassle of driving yourself? One of the best things to do in St. Lucia is a sunset game drive with Heritage Tours .

You’ll stop for sundowners at a scenic lookout point and get to drive back to your hotel at dusk when the nocturnal creatures start to stir.

Read More: The Ultimate Isimangaliso Wetland Park Travel Guide

Sodwana Bay is one of the top scuba diving destinations in South Africa and one of those places to go in KZN you need to visit at least once.

Time your trip up the north coast right, and you’ll be in time for the sea turtle nesting and hatching season.

Sign up for a midnight patrol with  Ufudu Tours , and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of an endangered loggerhead or leatherback laying her eggs!

P.S. November to March is the best time to catch a glimpse of the sea turtles.

Read More: The Ultimate South Africa Bucket List: 40+ Amazing Places to Visit

What’s better than hiking to the top of the highest waterfall in Africa? Camping.

Wake up to a spectacular sunrise over Tugela Falls (if you’re lucky, you might see a cloud inversion) and explore the plateau of the Amphitheatre to your heart’s content.

You can buy your camping permits from Witsiehoek Lodge , and while the hike is possible to complete in a day, turning it into a one-nighter is an excellent introduction to multi-day hikes in the Drakensberg .

P.S. I run a Tugela Falls Overnight Hike trip. You can sign up for the waiting list here .

Read More: Hiking Tugela Falls: Africa’s Highest Waterfall

Okay, so the end of Sani Pass isn’t technically in KZN, but the beginning of it is!

Sani Pass is a hair raising mountain pass with death-defying switchbacks that will take you into the Kingdom of Lesotho.

To conquer the pass, you’ll need a 4×4 and a passport. You won’t be allowed on the road without one, and if you do manage to sneak past, the chances of your car falling off the road is pretty high.

You’ll go through a border post at the bottom of the pass and again once you reach the top.

12/10 recommend staying at Sani Lodge Backpackers to watch the sunrise! You’ll get an epic birds-eye view over the spectacular Drakensberg mountains, and you can visit the highest pub in the world.

Did you know that St. Lucia is the best place in South Africa for whale watching?

Yup. It’s even better than Hermanus.

You’ll see higher numbers of whales here than further down the coast and a variety of species.

If you’re lucky, you might spot orcas, sperm, pilot, and humpbacks with their calves all in a single day!

I don’t have the greatest balance, which is why quad biking always makes me break out in a sweat.

While I might not be the fastest driver, I always end up enjoying the experience!

If you want to tackle some quad biking tracks, pull through to  High Stakes  in Cato Ridge. Your guide will take you on a trail to suit your level, and you can put the bikes to the test.

Other activities on the property include:

• Clay pigeon shooting

The Drakensberg is one of those bucket list destinations in South Africa you can keep visiting and always find something spectacular.

Whether you’re hiking the towering Mnweni Pass , summiting Mafadi (the highest peak in South Africa), or conquering day hikes, the views never disappoint.

But inside Giant’s Castle (one of the best places to visit in the Drakensberg), you can combine the mountain range’s meandering pathways with its rich history.

Book a rock painting tour, trek one hour into the wilderness, and you’ll soon find 6,000-year-old art from the Khoi San.

The paintings are beautifully preserved, and your guide will teach you the meanings behind each figure and its importance to the Khoi San.

For example, did you know only women could paint with yellow?!

Read More: The Best Drakensberg Hikes That’ll Take Your Breath Away

I went on my first Hluhluwe-Imfolozi safari in 2019, and boy, did I fall hard.

It’s the oldest national park in South Africa (only 1hr 15min from St. Lucia) and is famous for its widely successful rhino conversation project.

With its proximity to the coast, you get a lush tropical game drive. It’s a stark contrast to the scenery you’d find in Kruger National Park , making it a unique safari destination in Kwazulu-Natal.

Book a half-day or full-day game drive with  Heritage Tours & Safaris , or go on a self-drive.

Read More: The Best Game Reserves in KZN for an Unforgettable Safari Experience

Fun fact:  Greg and I had part of our first date at Oribi Gorge.

We went on a week-long road trip together, and our first stop was going on a game drive through Lake Eland and ziplining past herds of giraffe.

Other adrenaline-inducing activities include:

• The Gorge Swing:  You’ll leap off Lehr’s Waterfall in Oribi Gorge. It’s the highest swing of its kind in the world.
• Abseil:  Go down a 110m cliff face alongside Lehr’s waterfall.
• The Suspension Bridge:  Walk along the 84-metre bridge, suspended 100 meters above the Gorge floor.
• Water Rafting:  Choose from a day trip or opt-in for a two-day water rafting experience.

All these activities are available through  Wild 5 Adventures !

Things To Do In KZN For Foodies And Coffee Lovers

Alright, let’s move onto KZN activities for foodies. 

Here’s what to do in KZN if your number one travel priority is stuffing your face and sipping your way through a destination.

Ever wondered what goes into making the perfect cup of joe? Then pull through to Beaver Creek Estate , the southern-most coffee estate in the world and book a coffee tasting tour.

Led by Jeff Stopforth, the current South African latte art champion, you’ll learn how the beans of a tiny red fruit turn into a delicious cup of coffee.

From growing the plants to harvesting and brewing a bean from decaf to a dark roast.

At the end of the tour, you can indulge in a bottomless coffee tasting of locally grown, signature, and single-origin blends.

P.S. Ask for the sea horse latte art!

The Midland Meander is a foodie paradise. You could plan your whole trip around eating your way through the famous Nottingham Road, and your taste buds will never get bored.

The creme-de-la-creme of the foodie scene?  Blueberry Cafe  on Netherwood Farm.

It’s one of the best things to do in the Midlands!

The property has a beautiful backdrop of the Drakensburg mountains.

Especially the bathroom, seriously, it gets a 12/10 for the loo with the ultimate view!

Not only is the food delicious, but you can also feast your eyes on all the trinkets for sale and the decor. There is something to ogle at no matter where you sit.

Oh, and did I mention there are alpacas!?

While artisanal delights are the name of the game along Nottingham Road, the foodie paradise has a worthy contender yapping at its heels – Howick.

Located on Birnamwood Road,  Wedgewood Nougat  is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Indulge in nougat ice cream, biscuits, and stock up on a wide range of mouth-watering flavours such as:

• Mint and dark chocolate
• Almond and milk chocolate
• Cranberry and almond 

To me, there’s no better way to explore the Midlands Meander than with a belly full of delicious food and a boozy drink in hand.

The Nottingham Road Brewery offers another one of my favourite things – gin tastings .

For RX, you get to sample 4 different gin flavours:

• Standard gin and tonic with a slice of cucumber

For beer drinkers, you can opt-in for a tasting of their craft brews as well.

If you’re from the UK and a frequent patron of pubs, you’ve probably heard of Zulu Blonde Beer.

Since launching in 2010, the brew is stocked in more than 800 pubs in the United Kingdom!

The brewery is also the smallest on the KZN Brew Route and deserves a spot on any beer lovers KZN itinerary.

Fun Things To Do In KZN For History & Culture Lovers

Want to brush up on your KZN history and learn about Zulu culture? I have some bad news, KZN might have too much to offer to visit in a single visit.

But if you’re up for the challenge, here’s what to do in KZN for history and cultural goodness.

What do Gandhi, Winston Churchhill, and Louis Botha all have in common?

All three of these important historical figures were at the  battle of Spion Kop  in 1899.

Imagine if something had happened and one of them perished? Imagine how that would have altered the history of not only South Africa but the world.

Your guide, Raymond (who owns Spion Kop Lodge ), will take you on an insightful tour, re-telling all the astonishing events leading up to the British going to war with South Africa.

As you learn about the war’s historical significance, you’ll explore the battlefield and see the memorials honouring the fallen soldiers buried in unmarked graves.

For history nerds like myself, you can’t go wrong with a visit to  Fort Nongqayi .

Built in 1883, the fort was never completed because the powers that be ran out of money.

Hey, at least it shows governments have never been good at managing money, even in the 1800s.

Inside the fort, you’ll find the History of Zululand museum, a must-visit cultural attraction in KZN. Your guide will take you through each exhibit, teaching you about the important events and people who altered the course of history.

The thing which blew my socks AND shoes off?

There was a white Zulu chief! John Robert Dunn had 42 wives, over 100 children, and some of his descendants still live in the area. 

The Spirit of eMakhosini is a memorial to the seven fallen Zulu kings buried in the valley below.

A giant traditional Zulu beer pot marks the spot, and a diorama shows the kings’ burial sites.

While you’re there, you can visit Mgungundlov, the Royal Residence of King Dingane (the half-brother who murdered King Shaka) and kwaMatiwane, where Piet Retief and his men were killed and buried.

Of course, this is only touching the surface of the  KZN battlefields route . Some of the other notable sites include:

• Gqokli Hill
• Hlobane and Devil’s Pass
• Rorke’s Drift
• Blood River

It’s time to brush up on your South Africa history, kids!

The Nelson Mandela Capture Site is an important place to visit in KZN for locals and tourists alike.

Our first democratically elected president was driving along the road on 5 August 1962, pretending to be a chauffeur for Cecil Williams. The Apartheid police were tipped off Mandela (who had evaded capture for 17 months) would be passing through and arrested him.

Today, there is a visitor centre and a shape-shifting sculpture to mark the site of his arrest. The museum is beautifully curated and tells the story of Mandela’s life and his 27-years in prison.

Tickets start at R100 for adults.

I’m not a fan of village walking tours, but Elijah from Siyaphambili Tours changed my mind!

In 2-hours I learnt so much about Zulu history and culture, and got to see how a grassroots initiative like this can have such a powerful impact on the local community.

Elijah uses funds from his tours to help with various projects. For example, he has helped build two classrooms made from recycled materials and you can see how passionate he is about his home and work.

Part of the village walk includes a stop at the Sangoma. We learnt all about the different types of Sangomas, how the calling works, and how to spot a fake one.

Off-The-Beat, Quirky And Alternative Things To Do In KZN

While sightseeing in the province is more often than not restricted to the main attractions in KwaZulu Natal like Durban, there is a bucketload of offbeat things to do in KwaZulu Natal that most locals and tourists don’t take advantage of.

Wondering what to do in KZN, that’s a bit more off the beaten track? Add these things to your list!

Eshowe is a beautiful place to visit in KZN, and the Dlinza Forest gives you a chance to explore its beauty at dizzying heights.

…And you’ll get a history lesson along the way…

As you walk along the aerial walkway, your guide will tell you how the famous Shaka Zulu used the forest to hide women and children in times of war. 

The forest is also the final resting place of another Zulu king, and there are various walking trails on the forest floor for your frolicking pleasure.

If you’re looking for lesser-known attractions in KZN to visit, be sure to give Dlinza Forest a try!

Looking for things to do in Port Edward?

The Red Desert is the town’s unusual claim to fame.

Located along the South Coast, you’ll find the world’s smallest desert 10-minutes inland.

The red soil (only 200 meters in diameter and a total of 11 hectares) looks like a mini Arizona Desert. Legend has it it’s the site of an alien landing, but the truth is way less exciting.

Due to overgrazing by some stolen cattle and the wind, the terrain became eroded and led to the area’s desertification.

The entrance fee is R30, and you can buy a ticket by scanning the QR code next to the gate on arrival.

Love your local folklore? Then Howick Falls is right up your alley.

The Zulu people named the 300 feet waterfall,  KwaNogqaza,  which means the “Place of the Tall One”. According to legend, a beast with a serpent’s body and a horse-sized head lurks in the falls’ basin.

While there is a viewing platform for the falls if you want to go monster hunting, opt for the Howick Falls Gorge Walk. It’s an easy hike that will take a little over an hour to get to the bottom. 

Read More: 15+ Wonderous Waterfalls In South Africa That Will Make Your Jaw Drop 

Ngodini Bunduz is a 40-minute drive from Eshowe and isn’t the kind of place you would find in a stock-standard South Africa Lonely Planet guide.

It’s an adventure and games campsite offering everything from outdoor massages, paintball, river tubing, quad biking, and more!

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you can chow on a delicious nyama choma (the chakalaka here is perfection!) and have a few shots at the on-site bar.

Psst…If you’re looking for more of a party vibe, visit the Bunduz on the weekend!

Here are some of my favourite places to stay in KwaZulu-Natal.

Fordoun Hotel and Spa in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands:   Fordoun is an award-winning 5-star luxury boutique hotel. Expect a delicious menu (vegan options aplenty!), luxurious suites, room service, a spa with saunas, a weightless pool, and all the treatments your heart desires.

Bababnango Valley Lodge in Eshowe:  Tucked away in the foothills of Eshowe, Babanango Valley Lodge is a luxury safari lodge in the heart of Zululand. It’s an incredible place in KZN to spend a night or three. The lodge is a community project and is in the process of becoming a Big 5 game reserve.

Read More: Babanango Game Reserve: Where Conservation & Community Meet

Mantis and Moon Backpackers in Umzumbe:  Stay in a 360-degree glass treehouse with nothing but the lush South Coast forest surrounding your chalet. At Mantis and Moon you’ll fall asleep to the sound of the ocean and be a short walk from one of the best Blue Flag beaches in South Africa .

Read More: 10 Of The Best Backpackers In South Africa

Giant’s Castle in the Drakensberg:  Giant’s Castle Reserve is home to no cellphone or WiFi signal. While you can’t check your emails, you can wake up to the spectacular Drakensberg mountain range and explore the numerous day hikes crisscrossing the reserve.

Spion Kop Lodge in the Drakensberg:  For history buffs, you don’t want to miss out on staying at Spion Kop Lodge . It’s the best place to base yourself to explore the battlefield of Spion Kop and other important historical areas. And it doesn’t hurt the food here is scrumptious!

What are some of your favourite places to visit in KZN? Did I leave out any good ones? Hit ya gurl up in the comments below!

If you like it, then you should put a pin on it! 

About Lauren Melnick

Lauren Melnick is the founder of Wanderlust Movement, Wander to Here and is a South Africa travel blogger. She's been travelling the world as a full-time freelance writer since 2016 and has visited over 40 countries.

When she isn't typing up a storm, you can find her conquering overnight hikes around the Western Cape, rock climbing, and hosting sold out group travel trips around South Africa, Namibia and Morocco.

Reader Interactions

July 31, 2021 at 10:33 am

The eats looks yummy. 😋 Wedgewood Nougat and Road Brewery have sparked my Appétit. Feel like eating.

August 2, 2021 at 3:10 pm

The nougat is a 12/10!

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100% Local KZN South Coast Venues

South Coast KZN Activities & Attractions

Are you looking for things to do on the kzn south coast you are in the right place we offer you a selection of 100% local activities and things you can do while visiting..

With almost 160 km of beaches that become havens for swimming, surfing, fishing and diving, and rugged untamed landscape perfect for hiking and 4×4 expeditions, the natural wonders of the area are immediately apparent.  Added to this are wildlife sanctuaries, stunning 18-hole golf courses and numerous adventure activities unique to the KZN South Coast.

Explore and discover 100% Local Venues and Activities on the KZN South Coast

From unique restaurants, golf, tennis, walking trails, diving, fun boat rides, extreme adventures, game reserves and day spa's.... The KZN South Coast has a variety of things to do to help you RELAX!

Adventure Activities on the KZN South Coast

The South Coast offers a range of Activities to keep the extreme or the more relaxed adventurer entertained and exhilarated while visiting the South Coast.

Day Spas on the KZN South Coast

There is no better way to RELAX than a few hours at one the fabulous Day Spas on the KZN South Coast!

Eating Out on the KZN South Coast

The KZN South Coast is well known for it's relaxed easy going culture and is South Africa's favourite family holiday destination. There are many options to choose from when you would like to go out with your family and friends. From Fine Dining to Family Restaurants & Pubs, Gin Bars…

Family Fun on the KZN South Coast

The South Coast of KZN is the perfect place for a family holiday with beautiful beaches and tidal pools as well as a multitude of venues that will keep the whole family entertained.

Natural Attractions on the KZN South Coast

The South Coast is famous for it's magnificent natural beauty. There are many Natural Attractions on the KZN South Coast offering walking trails, view sites and picturesque picnic spots.

Shopping on the KZN South Coast

From Hand Made Leather Ware to creative Curio Shops as well as Organic Farm Fresh Food and Coffee. Have fun Shopping on the KZN South Coast...

Sports on the KZN South Coast

The South Coast has an active sporting community with numerous golf and tennis clubs who all welcome visitors! If you enjoy any type of sport - you have hit a win with Sports on the KZN South Coast.

Water Sports on the KZN South Coast

Visiting the South Coast is all about enjoying the Warm Indian Ocean... get there out there! Water Sports on the KZN South Coast: Learn to Surf, Go Fishing or have a Fun Boat Ride. And for an unforgettable experience try Shark Cage Diving!

Where to Stay on the KZN South Coast

Where to Stay on the KZN South Coast? The South Coast offers various Accommodation options  from luxurious B&B's to the more budget conscious family in a self-catering units as well as fun fill Holiday Resorts. Where to Stay on the KZN South Coast?

The KwaZulu Natal South Coast is one of those rare places on earth that offers an experience so complete, it becomes timeless and constantly a revisited fixture on every traveller’s itinerary.

With almost 160 km of beaches that become havens for swimming, surfing, fishing and diving, and rugged untamed landscape perfect for hiking and 4×4 expeditions, the natural wonders of the area are immediately apparent.  Added to this are wildlife sanctuaries, stunning 18-hole golf courses and culture laden arts and crafts and B&B’s unique to the South Coast.

An area that is truly the ultimate destination for each and every kind of holiday activity, the South Coast of KwaZulu Natal is an absolute must for those wanting a break from it all – and whether its extreme adventure or tranquil surrounds, the South Coast is a guaranteed experience of al lifetime.

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23 reasons to visit the KZN South Coast in 2023

If you’re an eco-adventure traveller looking to tick off some bucket list items this year, you will find endless opportunities along the stunning KZN South Coast. FromScottburgh to Port Edward and inland to Harding, the Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom has almost every outdoor activity available, from lush coastal forests to exquisite beaches and dive sites, all in one of the most scenic areas of South Africa. 

“This is the year many people are looking to try something a bit different, to get out and embrace life’s many opportunities,” says Phelisa Mangcu, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). 

“We want to ensure every visitor to the KZN South Coast has a fantastic experience, which is why we’re sharing our list of the 23 must-try bucket list activities found here.”

1.  58 golden beaches

Along the 120-kilometre coastline, you’ll find 58 golden beaches open and ready to welcome visitors. The KZN South Coast is also home to the highest number of Blue Flag Beaches in the province and some of the country’s best surfing spots. 

2.  21 tidal pools

The KZN South Coast also boasts the province’s highest number of tidal pools, 21 spots ofprotected bathing. 

3.  Ocean adventures

Your maritime adventure doesn’t end there – the KZN South Coast has two world-renowned diving sites at Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks. These are two of three Marine Protected Areas found here, with Trafalgar adding to the great freediving and snorkelling sites. 

4.  The Wild Coast Sun Resort

With its unspoilt beaches, golf course, casino and water park, Wild Coast Sun in Port Edward remains a family favourite in the Sun International stable. The resort has undergone multi-million-rand upgrades, including the addition of the country’s first indoor Skypark.

5.  The Wild 5 Extreme Adventures

This award-winning adventure spot in Oribi Gorge offers adrenaline-pumping activities such as the Wild Gorge Swing, the highest swing of its kind, and the 80-metre cable suspension bridge 130 metres off the ground.

6.  Lake Eland Game Reserve

Enjoy an African adventure in this Oribi Gorge-based reserve. Thrill-seekers can try the Lake Eland Zip Lines – the longest zip line tour in Africa!

7.  Great picnic and braai spots

Lake Eland Game Reserve, nature reserves, beaches, and more offer great settings for picnicsand braais with world-class views. 

8.  Ultimate hiking trails

Try out some hiking and biking trails including the Umzumbe River Trail and Weza Hiking Trail – both launched in 2022 – as well as ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest Resort, Clearwater Trails, and the KwaNzimakwe Multi-Trails. 

9.  Go- k arting 

Speed freaks should head to Margate for Xtreme Karting where drivers get to race it out on the tracks or test their skills on the paintball field. 

10.  Dezzi Raceway 

Stop in at Port Shepstone for the only Motorsport South Africa-approved racing track in KZN – Dezzi Raceway. This includes two purpose-built drift circuits for some fast-paced entertainment.

11.  Cascading w aterfalls

There are so many waterfalls to chase along the KZN South Coast: Lehr’s Waterfall in Oribi Gorge, the nearby Samango Waterfall, the 90m Nyandezulu Waterfall, the Mkhoba Waterfall, and the 23m Uvongo Waterfall plummeting into one of the deepest lagoons in the country. 

12.  Great restaurants

From quick and easy takeaways to award-winning fine dining, the KZN South Coast has great food for every palate. 

13.  Retail therapy

Enjoy great shopping at Hibiscus Mall in Margate, or Southcoast Mall and Shelly Centre at Shelly Beach, or browse the many local traders selling handcrafted goods.  

14.  Fun on the  farm

Get a taste of the region through the Agri-Culture Tours including a tour of Ubumbano Farm in Amandawe where you can sample farm-fresh goods at their Farm Stall or try some 20 adventure activities at Mac Banana Estate & Adventures in Munster. 

Learn more about local reptiles, amphibians, and arachnids at Crocworld Conservation Centre in Scottburgh, or Riverbend Crocodile Farm in Southbroom, before heading over toRamsgate-based Butterfly Farm. 

15.  A view from the skies

Enjoy an aerial view of the KZN South Coast with a flip in a microlight, helicopter, or light aircraft!

16.  Shipwrecks

If maritime history is your thing, learn more about the KZN South Coast’s treacherous past through its many shipwrecks. This includes the 1933 Nightingale Shipwreck in Trafalgar, and the 1552 São Joao Shipwreck in Port Edward. 

17.  Oribi Vulture  viewing hide

Near Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve is this incredible vulture viewing hide where you can witness Cape Vultures in their natural habitat.

18.  Beach side horse rid e s

Take in the coastal scenery via horseback by setting off from Selsdon Park Estate in Trafalgar, winding along beaches, farmlands and coastal forests. 

19.  C offee  f arms

Beaver Creek is the world’s southernmost coffee plantation near Port Edward with a great Crop-to-Cup walkabout tour and some fantastic biking trails, while Mpenjati Coffee in Munster is home to some of the country’s greatest brews. 

20.  The world’s smallest desert

Just 10km west of Port Edward, in the Red Desert Nature Reserve, you’ll find yourself in theworld’s smallest desert. The Red Desert is 200m in diameter and 11ha in entirety – well worth a bucket list visit!

21.  Award -winning spas

Unwind at one of the KZN South Coast’s many award-winning local spas. Extend your stay at a resort, retreat, or eco-sanctuary where mind, body, and soul can be replenished with spa treatments, meditation, and yoga. 

22.  Sweetdale Night Market

The award-winning Packshed restaurant in Margate hosts the popular Sweetdale Night Market on the last Friday of the month from 6pm to 10pm where you can enjoy local crafts, food, music and drink.

23.  Crafters

Support local craftsmanship and come away with quality-made leather shoes and sandals from S’Khumba Crafts based in Southbroom. Visit Polka.dot.coco at Ubumbano Homestead in Amandawe for handcrafted accessories, or Ndovies Creation for beautifully styled, traditional clothing. Iconic beaded crafts can be found at Stand and Shine in Umzumbe, Nqubele Holdings in Ray Nkonyeni, and Itshalo Lamachi in Umuziwabantu.

Find out more about these, and more, bucket list adventures on the KZN South Coast by downloading the free ‘Explore KZN South Coast’ app or visiting www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za .

Lanzerac, where grace & wine never goes out of style 

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South coast kwazulu-natal adventures.

South Coast KwaZulu-Natal Adventures, a list of things to do in the area.

Does golden beaches, blue lagoons, sub-tropical forests and the warm Indian Ocean sound like your kind of paradise? KwaZulu-Natal’s South Coast, affectionately known as the Hibiscus Coast for the thousands of beautiful shrubs that bloom along the coastline, comprises all of the above and more. Add sleepy villages, Blue Flag beaches, rivers and nature reserves and you have an apt description of this exciting…

Does golden beaches, blue lagoons, sub-tropical forests and the warm Indian Ocean sound like your kind of paradise? KwaZulu-Natal’s South Coast, affectionately known as the Hibiscus Coast for the thousands of beautiful shrubs that bloom along the coastline, comprises all of the above and more. Add sleepy villages, Blue Flag beaches, rivers and nature reserves and you have an apt description of this exciting region.

Stretching from the border of the Eastern Cape in the south to Durban in the north, this coastline offers plenty of excitement for the adventure traveler.

The most unique attraction of the South Coast is the annual sardine run. During late autumn or early winter, this phenomenon attracts divers and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world. The sardine run occurs when millions of sardines migrate from their spawning grounds of Agulhas Banks. Heading north on a current of cold water and along the Eastern Cape towards the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, the sheer number create a feeding frenzy along the coastline. The huge shoal of moving fish is thought to be the world’s largest migration. They are preyed upon by thousands of predators, including sharks, dolphins and seabirds. 

Scuba diving is a popular adventure activity all year around. For an exhilarating diving experience try A liwal Shoals near the town of Umkomaas or Protea Banks near Shelly Beach . Both dive destinations are rated as some of the top spots in South Africa and divers come here to experience close encounters with Zambezi, black tip, ragged tooth and hammerhead sharks.

If you prefer to stay closer to shore, try horse back riding on the beaches or catch a wave at one of the South Coast’s many excellent surfing beaches . 

Further inland, the magnificent Oribi Gorge offers more adrenaline filled adventures. This canyon, situated just west of Port Shepstone, is cut by the Mzimkulwana River and offers adventure seekers a wide variety of options. Try abseiling , bridge walking , zip lining or how about a gorge swing? As you plunge over the edge and swing high above the deep gorge you know that you have made the right choice selecting the South Coast for your adrenaline pumping holiday!

Activity List

Beach Horse Rides

Bridge Walking

Crocodile Tours

Deep Sea Fishing

Gorge Swing

• South Africa
• KwaZulu-Natal

South Coast Campsites

South coast campsites search results.

Marlon Holiday Resort

Paradise Holiday Resort

Tweni Lagoon Resort

Lalanathi Caravan and Camping Park

Characters Garden Park

Anchors Caravan Park

Mac Nicols Bazley Beach Caravan Resort

TO Strand Beach Resort

Rocky Bay Resort

Shelly Caravan Park

Oasis Holiday Resort

Fairhills Caravan Park

Warner Beach

South coast of kwazulu natal.

Warner Beach is special in that it has a very relaxed and welcoming vibe.  From the moment you leave your car and feel the sea breeze on you skin and fall under the lull of the waves rolling in you know you are on holiday and that the world is a beautiful place.  It is impossible to feel stressed on this beach.

There is a Take Away restaurant next to the beach where you can get a bite to eat or something cool to drink.  The covered sitting area offers gorgeous views in all directions.

The tidal pool is large, inviting and perfect for a dip when you need to cool down.  The beach area is expansive and the golden sand is the perfect place to spread out your towel and catch a suntan.

Doonside Beach is close by and worth the short walk to reach it. It has a great swimming area and the raised viewing deck offers breathtaking views.

Access to the beach

It is very easy to get onto this great beach.  There are steps to the front of the Baggies Take Away restaurant that leads down to the beach. 

Walk a little bit further down the paved walkway  and you will be able to walk directly onto the beach.

Tidal pool at Warner Beach

This scenic beach sports a large tidal pool.  The waves wash into the pool on the oceans’ side leaving you with the impression that you are swimming in the sea.   It looks cool and inviting and is perfect for when you need to cool down from the heat of the sun.

There is plenty of parking at this scenic beach.  The parking area is safe, easy to navigate and runs the length of the beach. 

If fishing is you thing you will be happy to know the Warnadoone Skiboat Club is conveniently located next to the beach.  Less than a block away the Warnadoone Shore Angling Club and The Fishing Tackle Shop can be found if you need supplies.  There is no need to be a club member if you are a holiday goer as everyone is welcome.

Where is Warner Beach?

GPS:  -30.079, 30.87119

Use the map below to find your way to this lovely beach.  It is indicated by the bottom red marker. It is very close to Doonside Beach and can easily be reached from the nearby N2 Highway.

• You are here:     Warner Beach

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Riverside Getaway

Riverside getaway: experience boat trips & more along this coastal paradise.

The KZN South Coast is home to some of the country’s best beaches, but there is more than one set of shores that can make for an exciting getaway. Along The KZN South Coast’s 170km coastline, rivers break into the sea, and these waterways hold their own secret gems and exciting activities.

The KZN South Coast is bursting with accommodation options to suit everyone’s needs. From hotels to self-catering units to camping, you can find the perfect home away from home for you and your family, that meets your requirements and your price range!

Through Scottburgh winds the Mpambanyoni river. Meaning ‘where birds gather’ or sometimes ‘the confuser of birds,’ its name hints at the abundance of birdlife found along the river. On its south bank sits the TC Robertson Nature Reserve, which has wildlife including blue and grey duiker, monkeys, mongeese and beautiful butterflies. It’s a great spot for a family picnic! There are 12km of self-guided walking trails, winding their way through grasslands, wetlands, river and estuary systems, palmveld and thornveld, and in spring it is bursting with colour with the blooming of wildflowers in the area.

North of the Mahlongwa River and Scottburgh is Crocworld Conservation Centre. It creates an interactive experience with reptiles and birds through educational talks and demonstrations. There are a variety of crocodiles and snakes, as well as some farm animals! There is a play area for kids as well as a restaurant, making it an all-in-one family activity!

Further down the coast, and inland from the bustling beaches and coastal towns, lies Lake Eland Game Reserve, home to Africa’s longest and fastest zip line tour. If heights aren’t your thing, there are a variety of activities to do, including a 4×4 trail, horse riding trails, mountain biking, fishing, walking, paintball and more!

The Port Shepstone Country Club is located where the uMzimkhulu meets the Indian Ocean. Offering not just golf, but also bowls, cricket, squash, darts and even belly dancing, as well as a bar and restaurant, it’s an exciting day out!

If you’d prefer to be on the river than next to it, the KZN South Coast offers river rafting, where you can tackle grade 2 to 4 rapids. On offer are 1 and 2-day trips that start from the Oribi Gorge Hotel and feature an exciting 4×4 track to the river and an adrenaline pumping and action-packed adventure.

The Riverside Boat Trips in Port Edward host a variety of boat tours, offering speed boats, tube rides, wakeboarding, skiing, stand up paddling, kayaking and a lazy river paddle boat experience! They also offer relaxing cruises into the Umtamvuna Nature Reserve, and their boats can be booked for private functions, like booze and braai cruises.

Make The KZN South Coast a holiday staple and explore the natural beauty of this coastal paradise; an exciting vacation right on your back door step.

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