Situated on the Indian Ocean coastline just north of Durban, Umhlanga is an upmarket seaside town renowned for its golden beaches, modern lifestyle and relaxed coastal atmosphere. The town's palm-lined promenade stretches alongside the ocean, inviting leisurely walks, cycling and whale watching during the migration season. The iconic Umhlanga Lighthouse and scenic Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve add natural and historical appeal, while nearby shopping centres, restaurants and cafés create a lively social scene. Warm waters and lifeguarded beaches make swimming and surfing popular throughout much of the year. Combining easy access to Durban with a polished resort feel, Umhlanga is an excellent base for both beach holidays and exploring the wider KwaZulu-Natal coastline.
Situated in the scenic Midlands of Kwazulu Natal, South Africa, Elandskop is tucked into the foothills of the majestic Mount Lebanon in the heart of the Kamberg Valley. Famous for its trout fishing, it affords a multitude of fishing activities in the dams and rivers traversing the beautiful terrain. Visitors can also enjoy exceptional bird watching opportunities, discovering the natural landscapes of Highmoor Park Nature Reserve and viewing the fascinating Kamberg San Rock Art at the nearby Kamberg Nature Reserve and Rock Art Centre. Other popular activities include mountain biking, horse riding, and hiking. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby Crane and Wetland Sanctuary, which provides a habitat for all three of South Africa’s crane species.
Situated in northeastern South Africa, the Northern Drakensberg rises up to 3000 metres in height creating spectacularly scenic views from every direction. Featuring cascading waterfalls, sandstone caves and countless San rock art paintings, the Northern Drakensberg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which also boasts a network of scenic hiking trails. Falling within the Royal Natal National Park, the ‘Amphitheatre’, comprised of over 5 kilometres of sheer cliff, is regarded as one of the most impressive cliff faces on earth with the Tugela Falls, the world's second tallest falls, plunging almost a kilometre from its clifftops. Nature lovers will delight in this unspoilt landscape and enjoy a wide variety of outdoor adventures.
Scattered across the diverse landscapes of KwaZulu-Natal, an exceptional collection of game reserves protects some of South Africa's richest wildlife habitats. Rolling hills, open savannah, sand forests and wetlands support an impressive diversity of flora and fauna, while the province has earned an international reputation for its conservation efforts, particularly in the recovery of the southern white rhinoceros. Several reserves are home to the Big Five, alongside cheetah, wild dog, hippo and numerous antelope species. KwaZulu-Natal is also one of the country's premier birdwatching destinations, with uMkhuze Nature Reserve recording more than 420 bird species, including the elusive Pel's Fishing-Owl and Pink-throated Twinspot. Visitors can enjoy game drives, guided bush walks, hiking and outstanding birdwatching, with the province's warm Indian Ocean coastline and world-class diving sites only a short drive from many of the northern reserves.
