Awash with stunning scenery, holidays to KwaZulu-Natal offer spectacular mountain ranges, the hum of city life and untouched World Heritage Sites. A great place to start exploring the region is Durban, South Africa's third-largest city and a buzzing seaside port. Known for its pretty beaches and Indian culture, the city's character is an inviting one. While there are many culinary delights to enjoy, Indian food is a favourite in the city - the unique bunny chow is a must try.
Durban is found on the South Coast, home to the Sardine Run during June/ July. Massive shoals of sardines head north towards Mozambique on an annual migration, closely followed by over 20,000 dolphin, thousands of shark and easily 100,000 cape gannets. It's a fantastic opportunity to glimpse some marine life. To see more aquatic species travel beyond Durban to the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, a UNSECO World Heritage Site. A popular haunt with fishermen, enjoy cruises on Lake St Lucia and adventurous kayaking while you take in hippo, crocodile and - when in season - turtles and southern wright whales. This is a diverse wilderness, home to untouched coastline, freshwater marshes and coastal forest.
Nearby is the luxurious Phinda Private Game Reserve, a huge 23,000 hectares of lush bushveld affording spectacular Big 5 game viewing. There are only a handful of exclusive lodges found in the reserve with interiors plush and service superb. From your accommodation you can embark on a range of activities from staple game drives to thrilling black rhino tracking.
Straying further inland from the coast, KwaZulu-Natal has just as much to offer, with the country's history written across the fascinating Battlefields area. A guaranteed magnet for history lovers, explore the battles between resident Zulus and the British or take in the facts of the bloody Anglo-Boer wars, with intriguing tours that paint a vivid picture of the brutal conflicts. Perhaps the highlight of travelling inland however is the mighty Drakensberg Mountains. Captured within the vast Ukhahlamba Drakensberg National Park, Southern Africa's highest mountain range soars with captivating scenery and exciting activities aplenty. Take on the Sani Pass, a heart stopping series of hairpin bends, and discover the rare San rock art, dating back to the Stone Age.
Enjoy unusual frog safaris, fantastic birding and exciting Big 5 game viewing from this diverse reserve.
Walk the battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal with exciting tours, which paint a colourful picture of the clashes that marked the land.
Experience the scenic midlands of KwaZulu-Natal and the majesty of the Drakensberg Mountains, perfect for adventure.
Discover the cosmopolitan bustle and Indian influence of this beachfront city and the many attractions of its surrounds.
A wild coastline of untamed natural beauty, discover stunning Lake St Lucia and watch turtles lay eggs at Rocktail Bay.
A diverse 22,000 acre reserve; discover the Big 5, stay in luxury lodges and enjoy a wide range of attractions nearby.
Phinda offers exclusive accommodation and service, a verdant landscape and spectacular Big 5 game viewing.
A gorgeous 14,000 hectare reserve, set off on daily game drives to find the legendary Big 5 and a plethora of other species.
Our favourite itineraries, showcasing the best of Kwazulu Natal
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Phinda Vlei Lodge is set in the Phinda Game Reserve, which covers a vast 23,000 hectares of land encompassing seven unique ecosystems, watch out for black rhino, cheetahs and dolphins.
Boasting sweeping ocean views, Audacia Manor holds plenty of colonial charm - dating back to 1928 - and is close to all of Durban's main attractions.
Set on 400 hectares of grassland, amidst the mighty Drakensburg Mountains, Cathedral Peak Hotel guarantees absolutely stunning views and a peaceful retreat from the outside world.
Set in a valley deep in the Drakensberg Mountains, Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse is an owner managed guest house with plenty of charm, character and delicious 7 course dinners.
An excellent window to the KZN Battlefields, this guest house is itself a piece of history in the area. Embark on exciting tours of battlefield sites and enjoy meals in the home once belonging to Mr Johan Potgieter and his family of "The Springing of the Year" fame.
A fantastic lodge for anyone with an interest in the history of South Africa, from Fugitives Drift Lodge visit the battlefields of KwaZulu Natal and have them brought to life by experienced guides.
Set in the Kosi Bay Nature Reserve, Kosi Forest Lodge offers spectacular views of the surrounding forest, superb bird watching and fun activities, such as canoeing.
A comfortable 4-star lodge in the village of St Lucia, surrounded by the Great St Lucia Wetlands Park.
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