These scenic spots in KwaZulu-Natal are the perfect setting for soaking up the province’s natural beauty whilst exploring everything from the coastline to the wildlife and the hills and valleys in-between.
Take in the views of the Valley of a Thousand Hills
Take in the sweeping views at the Valley of a Thousand Hills, a breathtaking component of the Kingdom of the Zulu.
With a number of eateries and historical sites along the way, it’s one of those few excursions that has something for everyone.
The unspoilt nature, wildlife, just amplify the entire experience.
The area is named after the thousands of rolling hills leading to the Umgeni River that flows from the distant Drakensberg Mountains into the inviting Indian Ocean.
Explore nature at the Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve
Tangled branches, wooden walkways that wind through marshy wetland and breathtaking greenery, Umhlanga Lagoon is 26 hectares of nature reserve nestled along the shore of the Indian Ocean.
Perfect for groups of people who love to be outdoors and who enjoy more of a challenge. The reserve is the ideal destination for bird watching, picnicking, trail running and self-guided walks.
Try out their many hiking routes or end your journey with a refreshing dip in the sea by following the route to Umhlanga beach.
On your way, don’t forget to keep an eye out for the blue duiker, the smallest antelope in South Africa.
Traverse a suspension bridge at Oribi Gorge
Surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife, one of the most exhilarating parts of a visit to Lake Eland Game Reserve is getting to walk across their 80m suspension bridge.
The views from that height can be described as awe-inspiring as you get to see the magnificence and grandeur of the Oribi Gorge from a very unique point.
Apart from the restaurants and tea garden, there is also a site for picnics and braaing and the choice of taking a self guided game drive through one of their various routes.
Explore Thompson’s Bay and see the Hole In The Wall
Thompson’s Bay is situated on the North Coast of Durban.
The stretch of beach is tucked behind holiday homes and resorts that fall between Ballito and Shaka’s Rock setting the scene for possibly one of the most stunning beaches.
One of the main attractions, apart from the tidal pool and scenery, is the Hole in the Wall. Pathways wind around the rocky terrain, leading you to the natural wonder which has an especially wonderful view at sunrise.
Discover the iSimangaliso Wetland Park
iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a huge protected area along the coast of KZN.
It stretches 220km from Cape St Lucia to the Mozambique border and is a World Heritage Site.
The area is dominated by Lake St Lucia and St Lucia Estuary with its network of coastal lakes, dunes, subtropical forests, swamps and wetland systems that are a haven for indigenous fauna and flora.
Gate opening and closing times are from 6am to 6pm.
Reception hours are from 7am to 4pm from Monday to Sunday
