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14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in KwaZulu-Natal

Written by Karen Hastings and Carri Wilbanks Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Dramatically beautiful and surprisingly diverse, KwaZulu-Natal, in the country's northeast, packs in many of South Africa's most popular attractions, despite its small size. Here, visitors can enjoy the World Heritage-listed Drakensberg mountains , with their jagged-backed peaks and spectacular scenery; Durban's golden beaches and surf breaks; a thriving Zulu culture ; and exhilarating wildlife adventures.

KwaZulu-Natal is also home to Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park , the oldest game park in Africa, as well as pampering private game reserves, where lucky visitors might spot the Big Five (leopard, lion, elephant, buffalo, and rhino). Along the coast, nature lovers can explore the stunning scenery of iSimangaliso Wetland Park , another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and dive the coral reefs of Sodwana Bay .

Find out why this is the province where South Africans love to play, with our list of the top attractions in KwaZulu-Natal.

1. The Drakensberg

2. hluhluwe-imfolozi park, 3. isimangaliso wetland park, 4. sodwana bay national park, 5. kwa cheetah breeding project, 6. nambiti private game reserve, 7. sani pass, 8. durban's golden mile, 9. the kwazulu-natal battlefields route, 10. tatham art gallery, pietermaritzburg, 11. oribi gorge nature reserve, 12. nelson mandela capture site, 13. valley of 1000 hills region, 14. midlands meander, map of tourist attractions in kwazulu-natal.

The Drakensberg

The Drakensberg, from an Afrikaans word meaning "Dragon Mountains," is a place of breathtaking beauty and one of the most popular destinations in the country. Jagged-backed peaks rise above dense forests and deep valleys, and cascades feed clear mountain streams. This spectacular region includes uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site with soaring basalt peaks that are some of the highest in the country and San (Bushmen) rock paintings, as well as Royal Natal National Park with the Amphitheatre , a five-kilometer-long rock wall with one of the world's highest waterfalls tumbling from above.

The 3,282-meter-high Mont-aux-Sources rises beyond, and is the source for some of the nation's mighty rivers. Nearby, visitors can see herds of eland, bearded vultures, and superb Bushman rock paintings in Giant's Castle Game Reserve.

Another highlight of the region is Cathedral Peak with some of the region's most beautiful mountain scenery. This area is also home to the venerable Cathedral Peak Hotel , which has been pampering guests since 1939. Outdoor enthusiasts come to these velvety green mountains to fly-fish for trout, hike and bike the wilderness trails, rock climb, abseil, and raft the mountain rivers. To best appreciate the dramatic landscapes, visitors can soar over the area in a hot air balloon.

Natal Drakensberg Map - Tourist Attractions

Established in 1895, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (formerly Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve) is the oldest game park in Africa and one of only a few parks in KwaZulu-Natal where visitors can see the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. Including the wildlife corridor connecting the two sections of the park, it covers more than 96,000 hectares and is famous for its rhino conservation efforts–both black and white rhino are found here. The park lies deep in Zululand and was once the royal hunting grounds of King Shaka.

Today, the park offers a rewarding safari experience with an impressive diversity of flora and fauna and typically less crowds than Kruger National Park . The Hluhluwe section in the park's north is mountainous, while the iMfolozi section reveals sprawling savannah with taller trees along the riverbanks.

In addition to the Big Five, wild dog, cheetah, zebra, blue wildebeest, hippo, hyena, and more than 300 species of birds are among the animals that make their home here. The best game viewing is in the cooler and drier months from May through October, however the summer brings lush growth and newborn animals. Guests can opt to stay within the park in modest chalets, safari tents, and a range of lodges. More lodging options are available just outside the park.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

About 250 kilometers from Durban, World Heritage-listed iSimangaliso Wetland Park (formerly the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park) protects the largest estuarine system in Africa. iSimangaliso means "miracle and wonder" in Zulu, and the name is fitting for this beautiful biodiverse park. The eight interconnected ecosystems here include coral reefs, croc-filled rivers, lakes, swamplands, savanna, and coastal dunes.

Thanks to this diversity of habitats, wildlife is abundant and varied. All in one day, visitors can snorkel, dive, or kayak along coral reefs, where leatherback and loggerhead turtles swim; spot an incredible array of birds; and see leopard, buffalo, zebra, and rhino on a game drive. The park is also home to the highest concentration of crocodiles and hippos in Africa.

Also in the park, secluded Kosi Bay offers empty seascapes of sun-bleached shores and shimmering lagoons. The area is also known for its traditional fishing techniques–fish are trapped here in woven baskets.

Sodwana Bay National Park

On the Elephant Coast, Sodwana Bay National Park is one of South Africa's best diving destinations . Part of iSimangaliso Wetland Park , the reserve lies on the shores of the Indian Ocean with South Africa's southernmost coral reefs shimmering just offshore with schools of colorful fish. Divers can see caves, pinnacles, and both hard and soft corals, as well as an incredible array of aquatic life, including lionfish, crayfish, moray eels, rays, and many species of sharks.

Whale sharks also swim these waters. Loggerhead and leatherback turtles nest on the beaches here, and nature lovers can join turtle tours to see them in season. Apart from SCUBA diving and snorkeling, other popular things to do here include sports fishing for marlin and sailfish, horseback riding on the beach, and hiking the coastal nature trails.

Kwa Cheetah Breeding Project

At the Kwa Cheetah Breeding Project, inside the gates of Nambiti Private Game Reserve , animal lovers can enjoy exhilarating hands-on interactions with these graceful creatures and help out a worthwhile cause at the same time. The experience begins with an educational presentation about the plight of the cheetah. Visitors are then able to pat the animals, take photos with them, and watch a demonstration of their incredible speed.

Depending on the residents at the time, visitors may also see other cats such as servals, caracals, and African wildcats. The successful captive breeding program here seeks to increase the cheetahs' gene pool and prepare the animals for a life in the wild. The project only runs one tour a day to protect the animals from excessive stress, so advance bookings are highly recommended.

Address: Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal

Official site: http://www.cheetahinteraction.com/

Male lion in the Nambiti Private Game Reserve

About a three-hour drive from Durban , near the spectacular Drakensberg mountains , Nambiti Private Game Reserve offers exciting guided safari adventures in search of the Big Five: leopard, lion, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. Scenery here ranges from sprawling savannah and grasslands, with unimpeded views of game, to lush riverine bush, and the wildlife is plentiful. In addition to the Big Five, the reserve protects more than 40 different species of game such as cheetah, zebra, kudu, and hippo, as well as a diverse array of birdlife.

Day visitors are welcome, and those who wish to stay overnight can choose from six self-catering or full-board five-star lodges, some with swimming pools, as well as a raised luxury tented camp. This popular private game reserve also lies near the KwaZulu Battlefields , so visitors can combine a guided historical tour with their wilderness experience.

Official site: http://www.nambiti.com

Sani Pass

Sani Pass is one of South Africa's most spectacular mountain roads. Connecting Kwazulu-Natal with the Kingdom of Lesotho, the pass is an eight-kilometer-long unpaved road that climbs to heights of up to 2,876 meters. The road runs through the Mzimkulwana Nature Reserve, with scenery ranging from towering rock outcrops and green-cloaked mountains to dizzyingly steep ravines.

Only vehicles with four-wheel drive are allowed on the road between the two frontier posts; on foot it takes between two and three hours. To the north of the pass is 3,482-meter-high Mount Thabana Ntlenyana , the highest peak in southern Africa. The pass takes its name from the San (Bushmen), who fled over here to escape from their white and black persecutors.

Check weather conditions before setting out, as snow and ice can make the pass even more challenging.

Durban's Golden Mile

Durban, South Africa's third largest city, is a multicultural melting pot. A great way to get a feel for this salt-tinged port city is to take a stroll along Durban's Golden Mile, a busy beachfront promenade connecting some of the city's top things to do . Entertainment venues, high-rise hotels, shops, and restaurants line this sun-splashed strip, and the golden beaches here lure surfers, swimmers, and sun bathers.

Segway tours offer a speedy way to zip between the attractions here, which include Moses Mabhida Stadium ; uShaka Marine World ; and Mini Town , a tiny replica of Durban complete with a miniature airport, rail network, and harbor scene. Lifeguards patrol the beaches year-round.

The KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields Route

During the 19th century, central Zululand, now part of KwaZulu-Natal, was the site of many historic battles between the Zulus, Boers, and British. Today, sightseers can explore this rich history on the Battlefields Route. Knowledgeable guides take visitors to see battle sites, museums, memorials, and forts and share fascinating details and descriptions of these historic events.

Two of the most famous battlefields lie a short drive from each other: At Isandlwana, visitors will learn about the clash between 22,000 Zulu warriors who prevailed against 1,350 British troops in one of the first battles of the Anglo-Zulu War. About 16 kilometers from here, Rorke's Drift is the site where British troops defended a mission station from the attack of more than 3,000 Zulu warriors.

Vryheid is the largest town on the Northern Natal Battlefields Route, and takes in the scene of clashes between British forces and Zulus and between British forces and the Boers. Blood River Heritage Site is another popular Zulu-Voortrekker battle site near the town of Dundee . After the annexation of Zululand and its incorporation in the province of Natal, the British authorities built a number of forts in the region, including Fort Nongqai in Eshowe.

Ideally, sightseers should try to focus on a particular era or region of the battlefields route as the sites are numerous. Many guides offer pickup points in cities such as Durban or Johannesburg .

In KwaZulu-Natal's friendly capital, Pietermaritzburg, the Tatham Art Gallery is a must-see for art lovers. The gallery lies opposite the City Hall in a building once occupied by the Supreme Court and exhibits an impressive collection of both European and South African art with a focus on art from KwaZulu-Natal. The gallery has a remarkable collection of work by 19th- and 20th-century European artists, including pictures by Sisley and Sickert and drawings by Picasso, Braque, Chagall, and Moore. Temporary exhibitions add to the eclectic works here and support many local artists.

Other popular tourist attractions in the capital are the African Bird of Prey Sanctuary , Butterflies for Africa , the Voortrekker Museum , and the KwaZulu-Natal National Botanic Garden with many rare and endangered plant species.

Address: Box 321, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal

Official site: http://www.tatham.org.za

Pietermaritzburg Map - Tourist Attractions

This stunning canyon is in the southern portion of KwaZulu Natal, about 120 kilometers south of Durban and 25 kilometers from the holiday destination of Port Shepstone , which is known for its great surfing and swimming beaches and lots of sunshine.

The Oribi Gorge is 24 kilometers long and 165 meters deep and dominated by sandstone cliffs and ravines that were cut by the sometimes wild Umzimkulwana River flowing through it. The reserve is a bird-watcher's paradise, with more than 250 species of birds identified here, including five types of kingfisher and seven different eagles. There are also leopards, baboons, and small antelopes in the vicinity.

The gorge can be visited on a day trip or overnight, as there is lodging in the reserve. Things to do here include multiple hiking trails, as well as ziplining and whitewater rafting. And then there is the adrenalin pumping Wild Swing over the gorge itself that will really test your fear factor. This is the highest swing in the world, and you can reach speeds of up to 120 kilometers per hour. To partake, you are secured by a full body harness before leaping off the top of a waterfall and swinging back and forth across the 165-meter-deep gorge.

The Nelson Madela Capture Site

The Nelson Mandela Capture Site marks the spot where Mandela was arrested on August 5, 1962. Although not his first arrest, this one led to his incarceration for the next 27 years. The site consists of a visitor center and an impressive sculpture that was erected at the spot near the town of Howick in 2012, which was the 50th anniversary of Mandela's arrest.

The 3D-style sculpture is the creation of artist Marco Cianfanelli and is made up of 50 steel poles between five and nine meters tall. They have been arranged in the ground to recreate an image of Mandela's face when seen from a certain distance. Up close, the image disappears, and you just see steel beams planted in the landscape, which is part of the artist's concept. There is also a visitor's center museum at the site and some stalls selling colorful handicrafts.

The Capture Site is located just outside of Howick off the N3 highway that runs from Durban to Johannesburg. Take the Tweedie turnoff to Lions River and make a right onto the R103. From here, follow the signs.

Address: Mandela Capture Site, R103, Howick, 3290

Official site: https://www.thecapturesite.co.za/

Sunrise in the Valley of 1000 Hills

Between Durban and Pietermaritzburg is the Valley of 1000 Hills region. The lush valley is filled with rolling green hills set against a deep blue African sky. It is also where the Umgeni and Msunduzi rivers meet, and there are opportunities for plenty of outdoor activities.

Whether you just want to go on a gentle walk or a more strenuous hike or bike ride, there are trails throughout the valley. If you want a more cultural experience, pay a visit to one of the local villages that offer tours to visitors. You can witness a dance performance, eat a traditional South African meal, or even visit with a medicine man.

Karkloof Waterfall on the Midlands Meander

Head north from Pietermaritzburg to the Midlands Meander route. Running for about 80 kilometers in length from Rietvlei in the east to Nottingham Road in the west, this route is best known for its arts and crafts scene.

What began in 1985 with six studios showcasing local weaving, pottery, and painting has grown into a proper arts and crafts trail through numerous picturesque villages with more than 160 places to shop, eat, sleep, and play.

From woodcrafters to leatherworkers, cheese makers to metalworkers, there is so much to experience on this route. Looking for more active adventures? Hiking, mountain biking, birding, and horseback riding are just some of the other things to do.

The route is also scenically beautiful, with the Drakensberg Mountains looming in the background and a green and gold landscape at your feet.

Official site: https://midlandsmeander.co.za/

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South Africa Travel Guide

18 Top Things to Do in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Province

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Lushly green and bordered by the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean , KwaZulu-Natal is sometimes referred to as the Garden Province. It was created after the end of apartheid in 1994 with the merging of Natal Province and KwaZulu, a previously separate Zulu homeland. Today, the province is famous for its rich Zulu culture, for vibrant cities like Pietermaritzburg and Durban , and for exceptional natural wonders that range from the mountains of the Drakensberg to the pristine beaches and estuaries of iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

Sample Durban’s Authentic Curry Restaurants

Durban is home to the largest population of Indians in sub-Saharan Africa and is heavily influenced by Indian culture. Accordingly, the city is famous for its curry restaurants , which serve authentic Indian staples alongside uniquely South African reinventions like the bunny chow (a half-loaf of bread that’s hollowed out and filled with fragrant curry). Options range from no-frills restaurants like Goundens —beloved for its mouthwatering mutton bunnies—to more upmarket eateries like The Little India Restaurant on Musgrave . The latter specializes in traditional Indian cuisine and caters well for vegetarians.

Discover Sharks and Water Parks at uShaka Marine World

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uShaka Marine World is Durban’s top attraction on TripAdvisor. Located on the Golden Mile beachfront , the aquarium features large tanks filled with aquatic creatures from all over the world. Unique experiences allow you to feed the stingrays or dive in the shark tank. In addition to the aquarium, the complex also boasts a reptile house, a slew of boutiques and restaurants on the open-air Village Walk, and a water park complete with splash pools and supertubes for the ultimate family day out. Tickets to the water park and aquarium cost 214 rand per adult ($15.25) and 174 rand per child ($12.40). 

Catch a Rugby Game at Kings Park

Rugby is one of South Africa’s great passions, so attending a game is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture. KZN’s premier team is the Cell C Sharks. They compete in the Currie Cup and Super Rugby tournaments and host home games at Kings Park Stadium in Durban. If you’re lucky, watching a game might also mean seeing current and future Springbok stars in action. Sharks alumni who have played for the national side include JP Pietersen, Patrick Lambie, and Tendai ‘Beast’ Mtawarira. Tickets for Sharks fixtures can be bought directly on the team’s official website . 

Surf World-Class Waves Along the Coast

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Some of South Africa’s best surf spots are found along the province’s endless coastline. Top spots for experienced surfers include Green Point (a beautiful right-hand point-break located just north of Scottburgh) and New Pier (a pro-worthy location on Durban’s north coast with firing left and right-hand breaks). Beginners and intermediate surfers are also spoiled for choice. Best of all, surfing in KZN is defined by the warm water and abundant sunshine—no need for the thick wetsuit you’ll depend on elsewhere in the country. The best season for surfing is the South African winter (June to September). 

Look for the Big Five on a Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Safari

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Located a 90-minute drive from Richards Bay, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is probably the most famous safari destination in KwaZulu-Natal. It was established in 1895, covers some 960 square kilometers and—whether you opt to self-drive or join a guided safari—allows spotting the Big Five (including lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino). For the best chance of seeing a leopard, join a night safari . The park is also home to some of the continent’s rarer predators, with cheetahs and African wild dogs being particular highlights. The entrance costs 240 rand for adults and 120 ran for children. 

Go Birding on a Lake St. Lucia Boat Cruise

Jennifer Sophie/ Getty Images

Lake St. Lucia is the focal point of iSimangaliso Wetland Park, one of South Africa’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites . It stretches over 80 kilometers in length, is part of Africa’s most extensive estuarine system, and supports an astonishing variety of wildlife. This includes more than 50 percent of all the water birds in KwaZulu-Natal, making it a prime destination for birders. Boat safaris give you the chance to spot fish eagles, herons, egrets, kingfishers, and flamingos, with a total of 526 different recorded species. Great white pelicans breed on the lake in winter, while migrants from Europe and Asia arrive in summer. 

Step Off the Beaten Track at uMkhuze Game Reserve

uMkhuze Game Reserve is the ideal safari destination for self-drive enthusiasts who want to step off the beaten track and discover a wilder side of KZN. The park offers simple accommodation , a handful of well-maintained waterhole hides, and miles of uncrowded roads that wind their way through open grassland and tangled riverine forest. Potential wildlife sightings range from the Big Five (including both black and white rhino) to cheetahs, wild dogs, hippos, and more than 420 bird species. Gate times are from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. in summer and from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. in winter. 

Learn to Scuba Dive at Sodwana Bay

 Jessica Macdonald

South Africa is one of the best dive destinations in Africa . If you’re not yet certified, there’s nowhere better to learn than Sodwana Bay. Located on the Mozambican border in northern KZN, this sleepy beach resort has a wide choice of dive operators to choose from, all offering professional courses with international agencies like PADI or SSI. The conditions are ideal for beginners, with warm water, minimal current, excellent visibility, and lots of shallow dive sites. Most importantly, the reefs are breathtakingly beautiful, with plenty of coral and abundant marine life. Recommended operators include Adventure Mania and Da Blu Juice . 

Swim With Sharks at Aliwal Shoal

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Once you have your scuba certification, head south to Aliwal Shoal. The Shoal boasts beautiful reefs, two excellent wrecks, and some of the best shark diving in the world. Operators like Aliwal Dive Centre use bait to attract sharks to the boat. Then, you can slip into the water and admire them as they swim around you, often within touching distance. Although some companies offer cage dives, most of the shark diving on Aliwal Shoal is cage-free . The main species is the oceanic blacktip, while occasional visitors include dusky, thresher, and bull sharks—and in summer, the mighty tiger shark. 

Get Your Adrenalin Pumping at Oribi Gorge

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An hour’s drive inland from Port Shepstone takes you to Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve. The reserve is known for its spectacular scenery—and as a haven for adrenalin junkies . The adventure starts with the world’s highest gorge swing, which sees you take a 55-story plunge from the top of Lehr’s Falls into the gorge at a rate of 75 miles an hour. Afterward, you can test your mettle with a 360-foot abseil down the canyon’s sheer cliffs; or with a whitewater rafting expedition along the Umzimkhulu River. Paintball, zip-lining, and hiking are also offered by Wild 5 Adventures . 

Soak Up the Sun on Idyllic South Coast Beaches

  VisionsofAmerica/Joe Sohm/ Getty Images

KwaZulu-Natal’s South Coast stretches from Amanzimtoti (just south of Durban) to Port Edward and includes some of the province’s best beaches and resort towns. Seven of these beaches have been awarded Blue Flag status in recognition of their cleanliness, water quality, and superior amenities. These are Trafalgar and Marina Beaches near Southbroom, Ramsgate Beach, Hibberdene, and Lucien Beaches near Margate, Southport Beach, and Umzumbe Beach. Wherever your South Coast adventure takes you, top beach activities range from sunbathing and sandcastle building to surfing, snorkeling, and fishing. Permits for fishing and spearfishing can be bought at any Post Office.

Go Tiger-Fishing on Pongola’s Jozini Dam

Jessica Macdonald 

The tigerfish has to be near the top of any recreational fisherman’s Africa bucket list. Prized for their ferocity and strength, these striped beauties are only found in a few places in South Africa, of which the most famous is Pongola’s Jozini Dam (the third-largest in the country). You can hire a boat and venture out onto the lake by yourself, but the easiest way to fish for tigers is with an experienced guide from outfits like Pongola Game Reserve or Shayamoya Lodge . August to November and March to May are considered the best seasons for tiger fishing. 

Learn About South African History on a Battlefields Tour

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KwaZulu-Natal was the location of several of South Africa’s most important conflicts, and you can learn all about them with a tour of its various battlefields. The most famous are probably Rorke’s Drift , Isandlwana, and Blood River. Rorke’s Drift and Isandlwana are located just 10 miles from each other and saw simultaneous conflicts during the Anglo-Zulu War in January 1879. Blood River marks the place where 470 Voortrekkers prevailed against an army of more than 10,000 Zulus in 1838. At all three sites, museums and guided tours tell the story of the men who fought and died there. 

Test Your 4x4 Skills With a Trip Up Sani Pass

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Sani Pass is a legendary 4x4 route that crosses over the Drakensberg Mountains from Underberg in KwaZulu-Natal to Mokhotlong in Lesotho. The gravel road is grueling, with sheer edges, steep gradients, and patches of snow and ice in winter. You’ll need nerves of steel and plenty of off-road driving experience to make it to the top—but the scenery is some of the most beautiful in the world. Expect panoramic valleys and towering peaks, and keep an eye out for rare bearded vultures soaring overhead. At the top lies Sani Mountain Lodge and the Highest Pub in Africa. 

Hike Amidst Breathtaking Mountains in the Drakensberg

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The Drakensberg Mountains wind their way through several South African provinces, but one of the most popular areas (the Royal Natal National Park ) is in KZN. The park is filled with peaks and valleys, waterfalls, mountain lakes and gorges. Its most notable feature is undoubtedly the Amphitheatre, an astonishing cliff face that stretches for five kilometers and rises to heights of more than 4,000 feet. The Tugela Falls (the second-tallest in the world) plunge from the top. The best way to explore the park is on foot, with short , medium , and multi-day hikes to suit all interests and abilities. 

Pay Your Respects at the Nelson Mandela Capture Site

Darren Glanville/ Flickr.com/ CC BY-SA 2.0 

On Aug. 5, 1962, apartheid police finally succeeded in arresting a young Nelson Mandela on the road outside Howick in KwaZulu-Natal. The arrest would ultimately lead to the future president’s 27-year imprisonment and, as such, was a landmark moment in his life story. Today the capture site is marked by a monumental sculpture made up of 50 tall steel columns. When viewed from the right angle, they come together to create an image of Mandela’s face. To reach the sculpture, you must walk along a winding pathway, meant to represent Madiba’s long walk to freedom. 

Get Your Cultural Fix in Pietermaritzburg

Janek Szymanowski/ Wikimedia Commons/ CC BY-SA 3.0

Although Durban is the province’s largest city, Pietermaritzburg is the capital. It is home to several places of cultural interest, including the KwaZulu-Natal Museum , the uMsunduzi Museum , and Tatham Art Gallery . At the KwaZulu-Natal Museum, you can explore the region’s history from the origins of humankind to the European settlers. It also has one of the world’s most important collections of Zulu craft objects. The uMsunduzi Museum is particularly worthwhile for those with an interest in Voortrekker history and the Anglo-Boer War, while Tatham Art Gallery displays a valuable collection of local, South African, and European artworks. 

Experience Zulu Culture at Shakaland Traditional Village

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For the most immersive insight into traditional Zulu culture, pay a visit to Shakaland . This recreated Zulu kraal is located 45 miles from Richards Bay and offers day tours and overnight experiences. You can take part in traditional activities, including beer-drinking ceremonies, spear-throwing tournaments, pottery-making, and sangoma (or medicine man) rituals. If you choose to stay overnight, you’ll be treated to authentic ethnic dishes at the village’s Shisa Nyama restaurant, followed by a display of Zulu dancing. Choose a double or family room with full board and all activities included for around $225 per person.

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KwaZulu Natal Attractions

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Attractions, Places of Interest & Popular Destinations

KwaZulu Natal is a world in one province: to the North of Durban you will find the best of African game reserves and pristine beaches , to the West lie the majestic Drakensberg Mountains and temperate Midlands while to the South there await superb golf courses , fishing spots and miles of subtropical coastline.

Did you know? The province of KwaZulu Natal is home to a multitude of attractions, with something to suit every taste, budget and relaxation requirement. It also has a subtropical climate, making it ideal to visit at almost any time of the year.

Known as the Kingdom of the Zulu, KwaZulu Natal is a melting pot of African, European and Indian cultures. This province boasts two World Heritage Sites, the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park and the majestic Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg Park .

KwaZulu Natal offers superb beaches, sunny weather, game reserves , rolling green hills, numerous sugar cane plantations and relics of the great battles in South African history. There are 8 distinct regions and numerous 'must-see' attractions in KwaZulu Natal.

Top Attractions

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

  • Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

The Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is the only park under formal conservation in KwaZulu Natal where the Big Five occur. Established in 1895, this is the...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

  • Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park

The Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park has exceptional natural beauty in its soaring basaltic buttresses, incisive dramatic cutbacks, and golden sandsto...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Battlefields Route

The KwaZulu Natal hinterland has witnessed some of the most brutal and significant battles to be fought in South Africa. These historical sites f...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Midlands Meander

The enchantment of the Midlands has long inspired many a visitor and resident to creativity and as a result, local artists, potters and weavers c...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

  • uShaka Marine World

uShaka Marine World in Durban is a world-class entertainment and tourism destination. At the end of Durban's Golden Mile is the beginning of uSha...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Valley of 1000 Hills Route

The Valley of 1000 Hills Route is one of KwaZulu Natal's best kept secrets. The Valley of a 1000 Hills forms around the majestic valley created b...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

  • iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Now known as the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, St Lucia Wetland Park lies on the north eastern edge of KwaZulu-Natal. The incredibly beautiful serie...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Aliwal Shoal

Rated as one of the top 10 dive spots in the world, but regular divers say it is second only to the rocky ride over breakers to get there, the ma...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Route 66 Zululand Heritage Route

Whilst the name of the route brings the battlefields of Ladysmith, Colenso, Dundee and Volksrust to mind, Route 66 is of a slightly different nat...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Sardine Run

The Sardine Run is an annual migration of sardines along South Africa's east coast, between May and July. These tiny fish migrate from the cold w...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Umhlanga Beaches

The Umhlanga Coast is characterised by long stretches of sandy beaches that promise stunning backdrops against which to swim, surf or sunbathe. T...

Destinations / Regions of KwaZulu Natal

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Greater Durban Metro

Overnight? Accommodation in Greater Durban Metro The Greater Durban Metro is more than just the city of Durban with its natural harbour, busy port and Golden Mile of impressive international hotels and glorious beaches - regarded as the definitive coastal ‘playground in the sun’...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

The City of Durban

Overnight? Accommodation in The City of Durban Bustling Durban is the hub of the province’s business and industry and pulses with all the energy of a major port city. Luxury hotels abound on Durban’s beachfront, and this city is often referred to as South Africa’s Miami Beach. Durban is...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

  • Pietermaritzburg

Overnight? Accommodation in Pietermaritzburg Set in the heart of the Natal Midlands in KwaZulu Natal, Pietermaritzburg is a city of charm and dignity, at its loveliest in spring when masses of azaleas burst into bloom. When the first Voortrekkers arrived in 1837, they found a tranquil...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

  • Umhlanga Coast

Overnight? Accommodation in Umhlanga Coast Only a short drive from Durban, the Umhlanga Coast begins more or less at the landmark lighthouse that dominates Umhlanga’s beach. From here, the long, sandy beaches are a cosmopolitan collection of white hotel buildings and blocks of timesha...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

  • Valley of 1000 Hills

Overnight? Accommodation in Valley of 1000 Hills The Valley of a 1000 Hills forms around the majestic valley created by the Mngeni River and it's tributaries. A magnificent gorge between Durban and Pietermaritzburg, the Valley of 1 000 Hills is about more than its spectacular greenery and the ...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

  • South Coast

Overnight? Accommodation in South Coast South African visitors that are looking for the ultimate summer holiday getaway are spoilt for choice when they choose to stay along the South Coast in KwaZulu Natal. This stretch extends from the holiday (and surfing) hotspot of Amanzimtoti (wh...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

  • Drakensberg

Overnight? Accommodation in Drakensberg The accommodation in the Drakensberg region is extraordinary, thanks to the dramatically beautiful setting. This region is home to the awe-inspiring mountain range of the same name and can predominantly be found in the KwaZulu Natal Province. Th...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Natal Midlands

Overnight? Accommodation in Natal Midlands Inland of Durban, lying in an area that acts as something of a respite for all who go there, between Pietermaritzburg and the Drakensberg, is a beautiful region filled with stretches of farmland, charming little towns, a wonderful arts and craft...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

  • Battlefields

Overnight? Accommodation in Battlefields Not only the place of some of the most picturesque landscapes in the country, the sweeping hills and knotty rock formations that pepper the rolling plains and valleys of northern and central KwaZulu Natal are also the site of a concentration of ...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Overnight? Accommodation in Zululand Just north of the Dolphin Coast, in a malaria-free area, Zululand extends up to Richard’s Bay along the north coast of KwaZulu Natal and inland into the rural heart of KwaZulu Natal, extending north to Pongola, and including the little towns of ...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

  • Elephant Coast

Overnight? Accommodation in Elephant Coast KwaZulu Natal’s Elephant Coast stretches from the world heritage site of Lake St Lucia in the south to Kosi Bay, virtually on the Mozambique border. Did you know? Although the Elephant Coast is a great all year round holiday spot due to its w...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

  • Dolphin Coast

Overnight? Accommodation in Dolphin Coast KwaZulu Natal’s north coast has become known as the Dolphin Coast, due to frequent sightings of bottlenose dolphins who ride the waves of the Indian Ocean in large frolicking schools. It is an enviable strip of coastline that stretches from t...

Additional Reading

  • Mountain View Cottages in South Africa, Where You can Catch Your Breath
  • The Top Ten Natural Attractions in the KwaZulu Natal Province
  • 8 Fabulous Self-Drive Routes in KwaZulu-Natal – Making Travel Easy
  • Kwazulu Natal for bird watchers

Find accommodation in KwaZulu Natal

South Africa Accommodation / KwaZulu Natal Accommodation

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Beachfront Villa

The Beachfront Villa is a holiday house in Westbrook nestled just south of the uThingathi River, offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean ...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Umfomothi Lodge

Experience the natural beauty of Umfomothi Lodge, a peaceful safari retreat located within a Natural World Heritage Site. Encounter diverse wildl...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Amakhosi Private House

Amakhosi Private House, also known as "IsiGodlo" meaning a Chief residence, is our private house which overlooks the meandering Mkuze River and i...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Madwaleni River Lodge

Madwaleni River Lodge is located on the Babanango Game Reserve offering an ultra-luxury lodge situated in the heart of Zululand. The lodge is nes...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

mFulaWozi Biyela Lodge

mFulaWozi Biyela Lodge offers accommodation in Hluhluwe and is an oasis of privacy and eco-luxury in the mFulaWozi Wilderness Reserve. The lodge ...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Rhino Sands Safari Camp

Rhino Sands Safari Camp offers five-star accommodation in a tented, luxury safari destination, that is designed to bring an authentic safari expe...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

The Farmhouse @ Cheetah Ridge

Situated in the southern section of the Nambiti Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu Natal, The Farmhouse offers self catering accommodation for ten g...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

mFulaWozi Mthembu

mFulaWozi has an earthy character with panoramic view of the water and the Wilderness. The cylindrical flat stone roofs and clay-coloured façade ...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Rhino River Cottage

Rhino River Cottage offers Hluhluwe accommodation in a private safari home, reminiscent of a British cottage with a nod towards African-inspired ...

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Sun-soaked coasts

Top 6 things to do in kzn.

S S outh Africa’s third-smallest province, KwaZulu-Natal has a wealth of scenic and cultural attractions that include the country’s most popular beaches lying to the south and north of Durban. Add to that its bushveld reserves to the north, historic battlefields and the dramatic Drakensberg mountains, and you truly have a place that offers something for everyone.

Have you visited...

uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park

The uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park is home to 35 000 examples of San rock paintings and a huge diversity of protected plant and animal species. While there are many mountains in South Africa, KwaZulu-Natal's 200km long uKhahlamba Drakensberg escarpment is by far the most impressive.

WHO TO CONTACT: +27 (0)31 355 7500 / Email:  [email protected]

HOW TO GET HERE: The Berg is divided into the southern, central and northern regions. The N3 national road between Durban and Johannesburg is well signposted to access routes for each of these regions.

Durban Botanic Gardens

Africa's oldest surviving botanical gardens, the Durban Botanic Gardens are a magnificent testimony to more than 160 years of dedication and care by a succession of curators. Not only do these gardens offer travellers a scenic respite from the busy city, but they're world-renowned for their indigenous and exotic plant collections from the subtropics—cycads, ferns, bromeliads, palms and orchids, among many other stunning flowers and more than 80 magnificent heritage trees.

WHO TO CONTACT: Durban Botanic Gardens+27 (0)31 322 4021 / Email:  [email protected]

HOW TO GET HERE: The Durban Botanic Gardens are located west of the city centre towards the suburb of Berea, in Botanic Gardens Road, above the Greyville Racecourse. A shuttle bus connecting the city centre to the gardens leaves regularly from Sydenham Road.

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Segway tours at Moses Mabhida Stadium

Since they first hit South African shores, the funky, modern design of the Segway transporter has held a fascination by the young and the young-at-heart. By taking a tour of the Moses Mabhida Stadium using this unique mode of transport, you'll be able to tick two boxes on your to-do list at once! A Segway tour of Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium combines the fun and freedom of a ride on one of these uber-cool mobility transporters with a comprehensive overview of one of South Africa’s top sporting attractions.

WHO TO CONTACT: +27 (0)31 303 4534 / Email:  [email protected]

HOW TO GET HERE: Take the N2 north towards the north coast. As you move out of the city centre, you cannot miss the Moses Mabhida Stadium on your left. Physical address: Shop 16A, 44 Isaiah Ntshangase Avenue, Durban.

Experience the sardine run

Around June each year, word gets out along the KwaZulu-Natal coast that the sardines have arrived. They’ve swum for more than 30 days from their spawning ground in the Cape to reach South Africa's east coast. Scores of fishermen join the sharks, game fish, marine mammals and birds that gorge themselves on the shimmering band of silver fish.

BEST TIME TO VISIT : Book your trip anytime from mid-May to mid-July.

WHO TO CONTACT: KwaZulu-Natal Tourism +27 (0)31 366 7500 / Email:  [email protected]  or Seal/Sardineun.net Expeditions+ 27 (0)21 422 0394 / Email:  [email protected]

Beer tour of KwaZulu-Natal

Following the province's beer route is not just about drinking beer—although it goes without saying that you’ll be tipping many a tankard, should you so wish—it’s as much about discovering the history behind the brew and the art of beer-making from exceptional brew masters at eight of the region’s breweries.

Try the Khangela Brewery in Durban, well known for  umqombothi , a traditional beer made from maize (corn), maize malt, sorghum malt, yeast and water.  Umqombothi  is popular among a large proportion of South Africa’s beer drinkers.

WHO TO CONTACT: KwaZulu-Natal Beer Route / Email:  [email protected]

Discover the iSimangaliso Wetland Park

The coastline of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park is the only remaining major nesting site in Africa where Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles still lay their eggs and it is a sight that should find its way on to every bucket list. Don’t forget about the sand forests, thornvelds, open savannahs and welcoming beaches of False Bay, while Charters Creek is a wildlife haven for larger game species such as elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, leopards, giraffes and tsessebe.

WHO TO CONTACT: iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority +27 (0)35 590 1633 / Email:  [email protected]

HOW TO GET HERE: iSimangaliso is easily accessible by road. Take the N2 north from Durban until you reach it. Durban is the closest city with an international airport, the King Shaka International Airport. From here, St Lucia is less than four hours' drive away.

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

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major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Must-see attractions in Durban

Durban skyline including Moses Mabhida stadium, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa

Moses Mabhida Stadium

Durbanites are proud of their state-of-the-art stadium, constructed for the 2010 World Cup. Resembling a giant basket, it seats 56,000 people, and its…

Toddler and mother looking at fish in a large aquarium, Ushaka, Durban, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa

uShaka Marine World

Divided into areas including Sea World and Wet’n’Wild, uShaka Marine World boasts one of the largest aquariums in the world, the biggest collection of…

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Campbell Collections

These collections are well worth seeing. Muckleneuk, a superb house designed by Sir Herbert Baker, holds the documents and artefacts collected by Dr…

Durban Botanic Gardens

A 2000-sq-metre garden featuring one of the rarest cycads (Encephalartos woodii), as well as many species of bromeliad, this is a lovely place to wander…

Phansi Museum

Found southwest of the city centre, this museum features a private collection of Southern African tribal artefacts, displayed in Roberts House, a…

Bay of Plenty Beach

At the heart of the beachfront along Durban's Golden Mile. Popular with sunbathers and beach-sports enthusiasts.

Temple of Understanding

Situated in Durban’s west, this is the biggest Hare Krishna temple in the southern hemisphere. The unusual building is designed in the shape of a lotus…

Gandhi Settlement

An often forgotten gem of Durban's historic past lies just outside the city in the Phoenix township. Here you can visit the house where Mahatma Gandhi…

Vasco da Gama Clock

This florid Victorian monument on the embankment, just east of Stalwart Simelane St, was presented by the Portuguese government in 1897 to mark the 400th…

Wilson’s Wharf

This once-hip waterside development is now a little tired, but it’s the best place to get a view of Durban’s harbour and its activities. The harbour is…

Umgeni River Bird Park

Found on the Umgeni River, north of the centre, this bird park makes for a relaxing escape from the throng. You can see many African bird species in lush…

Blue Lagoon Beach

This playful beach once had a reputation for being dangerous, but after an extensive revamp it's now a haven for families. There are playgrounds, food…

St Paul’s Church

On the eastern side of the main post office you’ll find a square with an old vicarage and the 1909 St Paul’s Church.

Addington Beach

This popular beach is located beside uShaka Marine World. It's good for swimming and popular with families.

Dairy Beach

Consistent waves due to a good beach break make this a hot surfing spot on Durban's Golden Mile.

uShaka Beach

The somewhat sheltered beach at uShaka Marine World marks the southern end of the Golden Mile.

Emmanuel Cathedral

Built in 1903; parts of the old St Joseph's church (1852) were incorporated into the building.

North Beach

A popular and often crowded swimming beach north of the harbour on Durban's Golden Mile.

International Convention Centre (ICC)

This glimmering glass-and-steel building hosts concerts, conventions and conferences.

Laguna Beach

A popular beach for water-sport activities such as jet skiing.

Popular outdoor venue for parties and concerts.

South Beach

Popular swimming beach on Durban's waterfront.

Battery Beach

A beach known for its fairly consistent surf.

Suncoast Beach

Popular, protected beach near the casino.

Juma Mosque, Indian area.

Juma Mosque

The largest mosque in the southern hemisphere; call ahead for a guided tour.

KwaMuhle Museum

This was formerly the Native Administration headquarters, where Durban’s colonial authorities formulated the structures of urban racial segregation (the …

Old Courthouse Museum

Found in the beautiful 1866 courthouse behind City Hall, this museum offers a worthwhile insight into the highs and lows of colonial living. There's also…

Madressa Arcade

The shops of Madressa Arcade are a flurry of colourful fabrics and piles of spices. Even if you don't find anything to buy, the architecture makes for a…

Natural Science Museum

This museum at City Hall boasts an impressive, if pleasantly retro, display of stuffed birds and insects, plus African animals. Check out the cockroach…

Sugar Terminal

Maydon Wharf, which runs along the southwestern side of the harbour and south of Margaret Mncadi Ave, is home to the Sugar Terminal, which offers an…

Kwazulu Natal Society of Arts

This not-for-profit gallery has temporary exhibitions of modern South African art. Once you’ve perused the gallery, its outdoor cafe, set under shady…

Art Gallery

Under City Hall's impressive dome is this gallery with a small but interesting collection of South African artworks, including paintings, mixed media and…

Port Natal Maritime Museum

In the midst of Durban's busy southern seafront you can explore two former steam tugs and see the huge wicker basket once used for hoisting passengers…

Dominating the city centre is the opulent 1910 Edwardian neo-baroque City Hall. In front of the hall is Francis Farewell Square.

Francis Farewell Square

This palm-lined square outside City Hall is named after the founder of the Port Natal colony and is where Fynn and Farewell made their camp in 1824.

Church Square

On the eastern side of the main post office on Dr Pixley KaSeme St (West St) is Church Sq, with its old vicarage and the 1909 St Paul’s Church.

Tekweni Beach

The windy location makes surfing less popular here than at other beaches on the Golden Mile. It has a very hairy shorebreak.

Dick King Statue

A statue commemorating Dick King (Richard Philip King), who brought reinforcements during the 1842 siege of Durban.

Country Club Beach

An exposed beach break that has good surf; can be crowded.

Oasis Beach

Good beach for body surfing.

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South Africa Travel

Top Ten Natural Attractions in KwaZulu Natal

The coastal province of KwaZulu Natal has just about everything – historical battlefields, architecture and memorials, first world shopping malls, Victorian-cottage shabby-chic suburban living, tribal settlements in rural areas, towering basalt mountains, warm seas, world-class wetlands, wildlife game reserves, hiking and snorkelling opportunities, vibrant markets, an annual sardine run, and a strong Indian, Zulu and colonial influence.

It isn’t short of rustic beauty either, and the top 10 natural attractions in KwaZulu Natal are a good place to start…

The magnificent Drakensberg

UKHAHLAMBA-DRAKENSBERG PARK

One of two World Heritage Sites in KZN, the 240 000 hectare park includes the highest mountain range in Southern Africa; the bulk of it designated game reserves, wetlands and wilderness areas. Its huge sandstone cliffs, towering peaks, tumbling valleys, sculptured caves, arches, rock pools, and clear streams and waterfalls make it one of the most scenically rich attractions in the country.

Combined with the Sehlathebe National Park in Lesotho it forms the trans-boundary Maloti-Drakensberg Park. uKhahlamba protects endemic and globally important plants as well as endangered species, like the Cape vulture and bearded vulture.

isimangaliso Hippos

ISIMANGALISO WETLAND PARK

The second of KZN’s World Heritage Sites, iSimangaliso has such a rich biodiversity that it said to have more animal species than the Kruger National Park. These include hippos, sea turtles, elephants, humpback whales and well over 500 bird species.

A patchwork of lake systems, the bulk of the country’s remaining swamp forests, Africa’s largest estuarine system, 25 000 year-old coastal dunes, 220 km of beach, coastal forest, grasslands, coral reefs and a rich underwater life combine to make the park one of the country’s most popular destinations.

Natal Midlands

THE MIDLANDS

As its name implies the Midlands are the middle lands of KZN; the area away from the coast. They lie between Pietermaritzburg and the Drakensberg , a charming region of green hills, farmland and quaint towns.

Dominated by the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains this part of KZN is a water-rich, forested and undulating landscape that is today best explored on the Midlands Meander and the Midlands Amble, two self-drive routes that take in the arts and crafts, and historically relevant highlights of the area.

Highlights include: nature trails, picnic spots, spaces for fishing, birding, places to walk and wilderness areas and nature reserves to visit.

Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Park

HLUHLUWE UMFOLOZI GAME RESERVE

This big-five game park is not only the oldest proclaimed nature reserve in Africa, it is also a sanctuary for threatened white rhinos; said to have the largest white rhino population in the world. The park is divided into two discrete areas – the northern more mountainous and forested portion is known as Hluhluwe, whilst the southern Imfolozi is given over to rolling savannah.

Aside from rhino the reserve has over 340 species of bird, a large and healthy elephant population, cheetah, hippo, hyena, jackal, giraffe and wild dog.

South Coast Beaches

SOUTH COAST BEACHES

The south coast, between the southern perimeters of Durban and Port Edward, is historically a beach holiday mecca. Many of the beaches along the south coast of Durban fly the blue flag – Lucien, Marina beach, Pennington , Ramsgate , Southport , Trafalgar , and Umzumbe – but even those that don’t, still offer clean, safe and beautiful beach side downtime.

Other beautiful beaches include: St Michaels on Sea, Southbroom, Shelly Beach and now an official first nudist beach for KwaZulu-Natal on the Hibiscus Coast, Mpenjati Beach, next door to the Blue Flag Trafalgar Beach.

Rock art - Bushmen

SAN ROCK ART

The uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park has some 30 000 painted San rock art images in 520 rock shelters, many of them hidden away in remote caves, and most of them made around 4 000 years ago by the San people. They depict different animals, people and subjects said to represent the spiritual life of the San, who no longer live in the area.

It was because of this collection of rock art – the largest group of rock paintings south of the Sahara Desert in Africa – that Ukhahlamba attained its World Heritage Site status. Major sites include: Game Pass Shelter, Kamberg; Didima Gorge, Cathedral Peak ; and Main Caves, Giant’s Castle .

The Sardine Run

SARDINE RUN

The annual sardine run hits the KwaZulu Natal coastline every year in June or July. The natural phenomenon sees huge shoals of sardines (literally billions of the little fish) move in a band up the coast. They swim for over 30 days from their spawning ground in the Cape, right up the country’s east coast.

Their sheer number (the shoals can stretch for kilometres) results in a feeding frenzy as sharks, dolphins, seals, whales and two-legged fisherman head out to catch as many from the ball of sardines as they can. After an absence of two years, the shoals ran again this year.

Scuba Diving in Cape Town

ALIWAL SHOAL , SCUBA DIVING

The rocky reef of Aliwal Shoal is an ancient sand dune lying 5 km off the coast of Umkomaas . On the reef live any number of different kinds of hard and soft corals and a variety of subtropical and tropical fish. It is particularly well known for the numbers of grey nurse sharks (also known as raggies or ragged tooth sharks) between August and November.

The cathedral of the reef is one of the country’s most spectacular diving sites, as are Raggie Cave and Shark Gully.

Red Desert

RED DESERT , THE SMALLEST IN THE WORLD

The world’s smallest red desert lies 170 km from Durban just southwest of Port Edward . Only 11 hectares in size it forms an almost near perfect circle in the middle of the lush green south coast. From the desert are beautiful views over the Umtamvuna Gorge and a number of Stone Age artefacts have been discovered in the area.

The Red Desert is rated as one of 24 plant hotspots recognised worldwide, yet at the moment it remains unprotected until conservation plans can gain traction. Try to remain on the footpath when you visit.

Oribi Gorge

ORIBI GORGE

Just west of Port Shepstone lies a spectacular gorge, its sides hewn into steep, sheer cliffs. It is named after a small, endangered antelope that makes the gorge its home. These sandstone cliffs are considered as old as 365 million years and provide some of the most dramatic scenery on the south coast. There is also the opportunity to abseil, mountain bike, white water raft, and hike.

Oribi Gorge was proclaimed a protected forest as early as 1950 and is home to a private nature reserve. The gorge has more than 500 plant species, including orchids, proteas and various cycads; there are over 255 bird species, including the fish eagle and Cape vulture, and the rare samango monkey makes the gorge its home.

Further Reading...

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Cape Town Eye (photographs)

Casterbridge in White River

Casterbridge in White River, almost a Hardy novel setting

Department of Coffee

A Trip to the Department of Coffee Open Day

Top ten natural attractions in mpumalanga, if there's one thing you do in durban – the 9 markets of warwick tour, sa-venues.com.

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

Top Parks & Nature Attractions in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Nature & parks in kwazulu-natal.

  • Nature & Wildlife Areas
  • Bodies of Water
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  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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  • Good for Kids
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  • Honeymoon spot
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  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

1. U Shaka Marine World

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2. Durban Botanic Gardens

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Recommended Outdoor Activities (197)

major tourist attractions in kwazulu natal

3. iSimangaliso Wetland Park

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4. Falcon Ridge Bird of Prey Centre

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5. Umhlanga Main Beach

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6. Hluhluwe - iMfolozi Park Wilderness Area

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7. Sani Pass

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8. Saint Lucia Estuary

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9. Phezulu Safari Park

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10. Golden Mile

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11. Nambiti Big 5 Private Game Reserve

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12. Cumberland Nature Reserve

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13. Bhangazi Horse Safaris

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14. The Valley of a 1000 Hills

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15. Drakensberg Mountains

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16. Zululand Cat Conservation Project

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17. Thompson's Bay Beach

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18. Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve

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19. Ithala Game Reserve

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20. Crocodile Creek

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21. Mitchell Park Zoo

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22. Zimanga Private Game Reserve

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23. Umgeni River Bird Park

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24. Sodwana Bay

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25. Monks Cowl

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26. African Bird of Prey Sanctuary

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27. Dragon Rock Reptile Centre

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28. Giba Gorge Mountain Bike Park

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29. Howick Falls

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30. Makaranga Botanical Garden

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What travellers are saying

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    uShaka Marine World is a 16-hectare theme park in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. It comprises 8 attractions: uShaka Sea World, uShaka Wet 'n Wild, uShaka Sea Animal Encounters Island, uShaka Beach, uShaka Village Walk, uShaka Kids World, uShaka Dangerous Creatures and Chimp & Zee. uShaka Sea World is the fifth largest aquarium in the world. uShaka Wet 'n Wild water park has the highest ...

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    1. U Shaka Marine World. 4,383. Water Parks. uShaka Marine World is a 16-hectare theme park in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. It comprises 8 attractions: uShaka Sea World, uShaka Wet 'n Wild, uShaka Sea Animal Encounters Island, uShaka Beach, uShaka Village Walk, uShaka Kids World, uShaka Dangerous Creatures and Chimp & Zee. uShaka Sea ...

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    The KwaZulu-Natal province, or KZN, is South Africa's second most populous province.This province offers something for everyone, whether you like watersports or are interested in South Africa's history. KZN has several world heritage sites, national parks, beautiful beaches, rolling hills and sunny weather.Learn more about this diverse province and the many tourist attractions in KZN in ...

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    1 King Shaka Ave, Point, Durban, 4001, South Africa. Phone +27 31 328 8000. Web Visit website. uShaka Marine World is Durban's top attraction on TripAdvisor. Located on the Golden Mile beachfront, the aquarium features large tanks filled with aquatic creatures from all over the world.

  6. THE 10 BEST KwaZulu-Natal Sights & Landmarks to Visit (2024)

    KwaZulu-Natal Landmarks. 1. Sani Pass. Did the sani pass drive on Christmas day and it was the best Christmas present for me and my family. The drive was... 2. Moses Mabhida Stadium. Unless you book the tour of the inside of the stadium, all you can really do is walk around or rent bikes and bike...

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    Ushaka Marine World. 53. With massive water slides, impressive sea life, and white-sand beaches, Ushaka Marine World is one of Durban's top waterfront attractions. This theme park and aquarium is home to eight different attractions. Visitors can observe sea life in the aquarium, race down slides, challenge themselves on a ropes course, and ...

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    Attractions, Places of Interest & Popular Destinations. KwaZulu Natal is a world in one province: to the North of Durban you will find the best of African game reserves and pristine beaches, to the West lie the majestic Drakensberg Mountains and temperate Midlands while to the South there await superb golf courses, fishing spots and miles of subtropical coastline.

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    Top 10 natural attractions in KwaZulu-Natal - welcome to the gardens of Eden. uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park. This magnificent World Heritage Site comprises a spectacular mountain range that stretches for over 200km, offering a nature-lover's smorgasbord of majestic mountains, valleys, waterfalls and streams to explore.

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    The uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park is home to 35 000 examples of San rock paintings and a huge diversity of protected plant and animal species. While there are many mountains in South Africa, KwaZulu-Natal's 200km long uKhahlamba Drakensberg escarpment is by far the most impressive. WHO TO CONTACT: +27 (0)31 355 7500 / Email: [email protected].

  12. Top Things to Do in KwaZulu-Natal

    uShaka Marine World is a 16-hectare theme park in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. It comprises 8 attractions: uShaka Sea World, uShaka Wet 'n Wild, uShaka Sea Animal Encounters Island, uShaka Beach, uShaka Village Walk, uShaka Kids World, uShaka Dangerous Creatures and Chimp & Zee. uShaka Sea World is the fifth largest aquarium in the world. uShaka Wet 'n Wild water park has the highest ...

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    It isn't short of rustic beauty either, and the top 10 natural attractions in KwaZulu Natal are a good place to start… UKHAHLAMBA-DRAKENSBERG PARK. One of two World Heritage Sites in KZN, the 240 000 hectare park includes the highest mountain range in Southern Africa; the bulk of it designated game reserves, wetlands and wilderness areas.

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    29. Marrakesh Cheese Farm. 17. Farms. By AndreKruse61. So many times I've threatened to drive the 'old road' to Kzn, South Coast and in particular the R103- the Midlands... 30. Cheese Farm & Lodge. 71.

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    KwaZulu-Natal has more than 600 kilometers of beautiful beaches along its coastline. Popular spots include Durban's Golden Mile, Umhlanga Rocks, Ballito Bay, and Margate Beach. Tourists can enjoy activities such as surfing, swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and sunbathing at these beaches. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby ...

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    Water Parks. uShaka Marine World is a 16-hectare theme park in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. It comprises 8 attractions: uShaka Sea World, uShaka Wet 'n Wild, uShaka Sea Animal Encounters Island, uShaka Beach, uShaka Village Walk, uShaka Kids World, uShaka Dangerous Creatures and Chimp & Zee. uShaka Sea World is the fifth largest ...

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    5. Moses Mabhida Stadium. 1 319. Arenas & Stadiums. By Fantajan. Unless you book the tour of the inside of the stadium, all you can really do is walk around or rent bikes and bike... See tours. 6. Nambiti Big 5 Private Game Reserve.

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    Nature & Parks in KwaZulu-Natal. 1. U Shaka Marine World. Best place to be with family: fun for all ages, best aquarium if you are a fun of under the sea worl. 2. Durban Botanic Gardens. So refreshing and interesting - highly recommend going for the 30 minute guided tour on the caddy - our guide Vishnu...

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    Go on a safari and contribute to wildlife conservation. KwaZulu-Natal is home to some of the world's most remarkable wildlife reserves.From the rolling grasslands of Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve to the lush forests of mFulaWozi Wilderness Private Game Reserve and the coastal haven of iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal's reserves are teeming with a variety of animals, including the Big ...