KWAZULU NATAL
The Zulu Kingdom is a kaleidoscope of natural wonders, ultra-modern facilities, fascinating glimpses of a multi-cultured people, a history rich in heroic deeds, bloody battles and ultimately, reconciliation - all set against a majestic backdrop of sun, sea, mountains and sky.
The sheer majesty of this region will take your breath away. Under the hot African sun, the cobalt blue Indian Ocean, mangrove swamps and limpid lagoons give way to rolling green hills and indigenous forests which shimmer in the distance before they reach the Drakensberg Mountains.
The major city in this region is Durban a sophisticated cosmopolitan city of over three million people - a city where east meets west - a city beneath which beats the pulse of Africa.
The most northerly region of KwaZulu Natal is known as Maputaland or the Elephant coast. This pristine eco-wonderland boasting 21 different ecological systems will satisfy even the most adventurous visitor. Some of the world's highest natural dunes, brilliant coral reefs, fever tree and palm savannahs, papyrus swamps and rolling acacia bushveld can be found in this land of natural and cultural diversity. It is home to the hospitable Zulu and Tsonga people as well as the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, declared South Africa's first World Heritage Site.
The sea, lakes and beach provide more adventure. Scuba diving and snorkelling enable you to watch some the 1200 different species of marine life found in these pristinewaters. And taking a turtle tour is a must. Angling, either from the 200 kilometers of unspoilt beach, on the lakes or deep-sea is excellent - and while at sea, you might be lucky and spot a whale or two.
Further south is Hluhwe Umfolozi National Park a big five reserve which is a stronghold of both black and white rhino.
The bloody past of this fascinating region so vividly brought to life in the films Zulu and Zulu dawn make for a wonderful short add on to a safari in Kwazulu or the Kruger region. A few days spent in the company of knowledgeable guides on tours of the battlefields at Rorkes Drift and Isandlwana, talking you through each battle, debating the strategies used, the numbers who perished and the medals and rewards won by the brave will remain long in the memory.
The north coast of Zululand, also known as the Dolphin Coast, stretches from Zimbali just north of Durban to the mighty Tugela River. This is the playground of bottlenose dolphins, which frolic in the waters close to shore and are visible all year round. This coast offers luxury, beauty, sport and history, the excellent beaches, year round warm weather, golf courses and good hotels are perfect for a few days relaxation after an exciting safari elsewhere in South Africa.
The North Coast is also home to a large Indian community. Look out for their temples, sample their spicy foodstuffs or shop for fresh produce at any of the numerous markets..
The Midlands Meander, the first route of its kind in the country, opened up the wonders and beauty of the interior of KwaZulu-Natal over a decade ago. It has grown into an eclectic and fascinating mix of arts and crafts, world-class restaurants and homely comforts, with a wide range of sporting environmental and historical pursuits.
The Drakensberg Mountains, with their awe-inspiring basalt cliffs, snowcapped in winter, tower over riverine bush, lush yellowwood forests and cascading waterfalls, form a massive barrier separating KwaZulu-Natal from the Kingdom of Lesotho. The only road access is via Sani Pass, which at the top, boasts the highest pub on Africa.
Combining sheer natural beauty with a wealth of biological diversity, this mountainous region has been preserved and venerated for eons since the San people or bushmen roamed these slopes. Tens of thousands of paintings depicting their daily life can be found on the rock faces the park is KwaZulu Natal’s second World Heritage Site.
There is a good range of activities available here including climbing the sheer rock or ice- climbing, abseiling, white water rafting or taking a helicopter ride to view the mountains from above and also many beautiful hiking trails.
The varied attractions of KwaZulu safari Natal combine nicely with a few days Safari in Kruger, Madikwe or the Cape Town Region.
KwaZulu Natal is a year round destination so the best time to visit KwaZulu Natal depends on your interests.
South Africa Kwazulu Camps