KwaZulu-Natal has something for everyone, from superb beaches and gripping military history to excellent safari reserves.
The iSimangaliso Wetland Park – the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in KwaZulu-Natal – is concentrated around the coast. It protects a 220km stretch of coral-fringed coastline, with wetlands, mangrove lined estuaries, coastal forest, open savannah and white sand beaches. On the water, snorkelling and diving is excellent with whales, dolphin and turtles found at various times of year, while on land, wildlife includes lion, elephant, and buffalo.
Away from the coast, the Anglo-Zulu and Anglo Boer battlefields are famous for the extraordinary stories of courage and resilience. Visit the most famous sites at Rorke’s Drift, Isandlwana, Spieonkop and Blood River and guides will bring the battles to life in remarkable detail.
In terms of safari, there are private reserves (such as Phinda) and in national parks like Hluhluwe-iMfolozi which, along with all the traditional species, has the highest concentration of white rhino in Africa. Private reserves like Phinda also offer the opportunity to go beyond the vehicle on walking safaris, conservation projects etc.
