Holidays to KwaZulu-Natal

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.