KwaZulu-Natal is one of the provinces of South Africa that truly surprises. Most tourists have been familiar with it in relation to beaches and hot summers, only to find that it has a lot more to offer after spending time in this province. Tourists can enjoy the relaxing beaches of Durban, then hike through the dramatic mountains of the Drakensberg, and then end the trip with a safari experience surrounded by wildlife.
What most people like about KwaZulu-Natal is its diversity. The first day was filled with ocean views and nightlife, and the second day had a peaceful and nature theme. The province is also endowed with a rich Zulu cultural presence, making the experience even more unique than many other places in South Africa.
When you’re planning a trip, here are some of the best things to do in KwaZulu-Natal, and why they are worth adding to your itinerary.
Things to Do in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
1. Relax at Durban Beachfront and Golden Mile
2. Explore uShaka Marine World
3. Visit the Drakensberg Mountains
4. Go on Safari at Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park
5. Experience Zulu Culture at PheZulu Safari Park
6. Take a Boat Cruise at St Lucia Estuary
7. Explore Midlands Meander
8. Visit Moses Mabhida Stadium
9. Enjoy Durban’s Food Scene
9 Fun Things to Do in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
1. Relax at Durban Beachfront and Golden Mile
Address: Golden Mile Beachfront, Marine Parade, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Many tourists invariably visit the Golden Mile in Durban, and it really deserves all those accolades. The beach fronts on the Indian Ocean, with warm water, vibrant promenades, restaurants, street entertainers, and cycling paths.
I recall a sunset walk by the promenade and seeing how active it was. Bicyclists rode their bikes, surfers swam in the water, and little food stalls warmed the air with the smell of grilled food and bunny chow.
Things you can do:
- Swimming
- Surfing
- Bike rentals
- Beachfront dining
- Rickshaw rides
Budget:
- Beach access is free.
- Bike rentals cost around R80 to R150 per hour.
- Surf lessons usually cost R300 to R600.
- Meals nearby range between R70 and R250.
There are also public restrooms, restaurants, and lifeguards available on the beach as well as nearby hotels. Some beachfront resorts offer free breakfast to visitors, ensuring convenience to stay close to the beach.
2. Explore uShaka Marine World
Address: 1 Bell St, Point, Durban, 4001, South Africa.
This is perhaps one of the most popular attractions in Durban, and it is definitely bigger than I thought. uShaka Marine World is a combination of a water park, aquarium, restaurants, shopping, and entertainment.
One of my favorite parts of the aquarium was the shipwrecked theme, for that is how it was designed. The tunnels that are walked through while the sharks and giant fish fly overhead are surprisingly immersive.
Things to enjoy:
- Dolphin shows
- Water slides
- Aquarium tours
- Snorkeling experiences
- Family entertainment areas
Budget:
- Entry fees range from R220 to R350, depending on packages.
- Snorkeling and extra activities may cost more.
- Food inside ranges between R80 and R200.
The facilities are very good. Lockers, restaurants, shade, gift shops, and kid-friendly activities abound. This place is especially great for families with kids, as you can spend a whole day here.
3. Visit the Drakensberg Mountains
Address: Drakensberg Mountain Region, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
The whole region of the Drakensberg is quite different from Durban. You don’t find any beaches there anymore, and you’re surrounded by giant mountains, waterfalls, hiking trails, and fresh mountain air.
I’m being honest here, this was one of my favorite aspects of KwaZulu-Natal; it was peaceful and dramatic. In some parts, it is almost like a dream come true, particularly at sunrise time.
Popular activities include:
- Hiking
- Horse riding
- Camping
- Photography
- Rock art tours
Budget:
- Hiking access fees range from R50 to R150.
- Guided tours cost around R500 to R1,500.
- Lodges range from R900 to over R4,000 per night.
Most mountain hotels have fireplaces, spa centers, swimming pools, and a free breakfast. Many upscale lodges even offer guided hikes and a meal in their packages.
4. Go on Safari at Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park
Address: Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
If you are a true wildlife lover, you certainly should not miss this one. Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park is an ancient game park in Africa and a rhino protection park.
Riding through the reserve was thrilling as you never really knew what you were going to encounter next! Be ready to spot fun animals, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and even rhinos.
Activities:
- Self-drive safaris
- Guided game drives
- Bush camping
- Wildlife photography
Budget:
- Entry fees are around R240 per adult.
- Guided game drives range from R350 to R900.
- Safari lodges vary between R1,200 and R6,000 per night.
Some luxury lodges offer free breakfast, safari drives, and evening drinks. It’s actually one of those times that sticks with you forever, when you can see wildlife while eating dinner outside.
5. Experience Zulu Culture at PheZulu Safari Park.
Address: Old Main Rd, Botha’s Hill, Outer West Durban, 3660, South Africa.
KwaZulu is rich in Zulu culture, and a trip to PheZulu Safari Park promises some of that.
The cultural activities here were vibrant and amusing. This was made educational, but not boring, with the traditional dancing, drumming, and storytelling.
Things to do:
- Watch Zulu dance performances
- Visit traditional Zulu huts
- Crocodile and snake park tours
- Safari drives
Budget:
- Cultural village tours cost around R160 to R250.
- Safari packages may cost more.
- Meals cost approximately R80 to R180.
The park features restaurants, curio shops, and a view over the Valley of a Thousand Hills. There are tour packages that come with lunch, in addition to the shows.
6. Take a Boat Cruise at St Lucia Estuary
Address: St Lucia Estuary, St Lucia, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
St Lucia is one of the places that is indeed a place of relaxation, where nature simply takes over. Hippos and crocodiles, birdlife, and boat cruises are the reasons for the fame of the estuary area.
The cruise experience was as relaxing as it could be and was one of the many activities that I did in KwaZulu-Natal that would have counted as one of the most relaxing. The view of hippos emerging from the water and the explanation of the ecosystem with the guides is surprisingly peaceful.
Activities:
- Hippo and crocodile cruises
- Birdwatching
- Kayaking
- Fishing
Budget:
- Boat cruises range from R300 to R500.
- Accommodation ranges between R800 and R3,500.
Numerous lodges in the vicinity offer breakfast, swimming pools, and outdoor entertainment. Complimentary cocktails are even offered on sunset cruises from some guides.
7. Explore Midlands Meander
Address: Midlands Meander Route, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Midlands Meander is a quieter and more artistic region of KwaZulu-Natal. There are local cafes, art galleries, craft shops, waterfalls along the route, and countryside scenery.
This has to be my favourite place to be, as it is more relaxed and comfortable than the busy city of Durban. Enjoy the countryside for hours, stopping at little cafés to taste local cheese, shopping for items handcrafted by local artisans, or simply enjoying the countryside.
Things to enjoy:
- Art galleries
- Coffee shops
- Local markets
- Craft stores
- Spa retreats
Budget:
- Entry to most stops is free.
- Meals range from R70 to R250.
- Spa experiences start around R500.
Complimentary breakfast baskets or wine tasting is offered by some boutique lodges and guesthouses for overnight guests.
8. Visit Moses Mabhida Stadium
Address: 44 Isaiah Ntshangase Rd, Stamford Hill, Durban, 4025, South Africa.
If you don’t follow football, it is still worth visiting this stadium, as there are views and adventure activities available.
The ride to the top on the SkyCar offers spectacular views of Durban’s coastline. Taking a helicopter ride over the city and ocean was certainly one of the best experiences of the trip.
Activities:
- SkyCar rides
- Stadium tours
- Adventure swing
- Segway tours
Budget:
- SkyCar tickets cost around R100 to R160.
- Adventure swing costs around R700.
Cafés, restaurants, and outdoor areas for relaxation after activity are also located in the stadium area.
9. Enjoy Durban’s Food Scene
In KwaZulu-Natal, there’s one thing that people will not miss: the food! The food influences from Indians and Africans are especially tremendous in Durban. One of my favourite meals on the trip was bunny chow.
Popular food areas:
- Florida Road
- Durban Central
- Umhlanga
Budget:
- Street food starts around R40.
- The menus at restaurants are priced from R80 to R300.
Many restaurants serve large portions, and some beachfront restaurants have a complimentary starter or drink happy hour specials.
Conclusion
KwaZulu-Natal is a true melting pot of various destinations, and it’s not a lie. You will have beaches, mountains, safaris, nightlife, wildlife, cultural experiences, and wonderful food all within relatively reachable distances.
The special thing about the province is not just the attractions but the ambiance. People are friendly, there’s always something to do or see to keep you entertained, and the scenery changes continually if you’re looking for some adventure or relaxation.
It’s a place that you can stay for a week and still feel like there’s more to see.
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