IOL Travel KZN

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TRAVEL KZN One province ... many destinations SEPTEMBER 2020

Brought to you by Tourism KZN ... proudly South African

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KZN: Where you can make a splash without burning cash Simply breathtaking gems that every visitor must explore The ultimate KZN bucket list Coasting down south: 10 spectacular day trips visitors can’t miss What a lot we’ve got!

A guide to fun and adventure in KZN

CONTACT US PUBLISHER Vasantha Angamuthu vasantha@africannewsagency. com EDITOR Clinton Moodley clinton.moodley@inl.co.za EXECUTIVE EDITOR: LIFESTYLE Nelandri Narianan nelandri.narianan@inl.co.za PRODUCTION Renata Ford renata.ford@inl.co.za DESIGN Nelandri Narianan nelandri.narianan@inl.co.za BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Keshni Odayan keshni.odayan@inl.co.za SALES Charl Reineke charl.reineke@inl.co.za Kyle Villet kyle.villet@africannewsagency. com GENERAL ENQUIRIES info@anapublishing.com

WELCOME TO THE KINGDOM CLINTON MOODLEY A DESTINATION that has it all. That’s one way to describe KwaZulu-Natal.

With its blue-flag status beaches, safari experiences, exhilarating adventure scene and its rich culture and heritage, there’s something for everyone in the Zulu Kingdom.

Combine all this with its mouthwatering food offerings and you have an award-winning destination waiting to be explored.

Thulisile Galelekile, the general manager for marketing at Tourism KwaZulu-Natal, said KZN is a destination with many wonders.

“We pride ourselves as a destination that has it all. Once you experience the province, nothing compares. It touches your soul and lures you back.

There’s something about KZN that makes people come back, which explains the large number of repeat international and local visitors,” she said.

Continued on Page 4 ...

... from Page 3 A traveller needs at least five to seven days to explore the province.

Galelekile suggests travellers hire a car when they visit, which allows them the luxury of exploring the vast province.

“Planning is essential.

To immerse yourself in an authentic experience, one should book local guides who can share insight on some of the province’s culture, history and heritage.

The guides are fantastic storytellers that will leave you inspired and educated.

“Travellers should also be spontaneous and venture off the beaten path. Sometimes travellers just need to stop, see and embrace what the province has to offer.

They will be surprised at the hidden gems they will uncover,” she said.

THE AFFORDABILITY FACTOR Galelekile said KZN has experiences to suit everyone’s budget, whether you prefer staying in backpackers accommodation, a camp site, hotel or all-inclusive luxury resort. With South African attractions now focusing on domestic tourism, there are plenty of activities one can enjoy for free or at a discounted rate.

The Tourism website, www.zulu.org.za, showcases some of discounted offerings for those thinking of booking a trip.

“Tourism KwaZulu-Natal is working closely with its trade partners to showcase the specials and discounts on offer. These can be found on our social media page and website.

“Now there’s no excuse not to explore our beautiful province,” added Galelekile.

MAKE A SPLASH without burning cash

BELIEVE IT UKHAHLAMBA DRAKENSBERG PARK

EXPLORE KZN THIS TOURISM MONTH, UNFORGETTABLE SPECIALS AWAIT! Whether you want to be lost in the beauty of the mountains, be the thrill-seeker and take a plunge into your next adventure, get pampered in luxury or explore the wild side among the Big 5 – our warm people and sunny shores welcome you.

Be captivated with authentic experiences this September as we celebrate Tourism Month with South Africa’s theme being Tourism and Rural Development.

Explore local traditional homestead villages as you enjoy rich Zulu cultural experiences such as meeting the Chief, dancing to the beat of the drums, feasting on hearty cuisine with the locals or setting your eyes on awe-inspiring views as the rural life surrounds you.

If luxury is what you’re seeking, enjoy five-star game lodges and allow the vibrant Zulu Kingdom and welcoming people to enrich your soul while you empower the development of the community.

No matter the experience you’re seeking, KZN is yours to discover!

#TOURISMMONTH2020

www.zulu.org.za #KZNHasItAll

UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES TO DIS HIKING Home to some of the most exceptional hiking trails, KZN offers a range of natural trails for beginners to expert hiking enthusiasts.

MKUZE GAME RESERVE SCAN ME for a virtual experience

A bird lovers mecca, adorned with plentiful bird species and wildlife.

HLUHLUWE IMFOLOZI PARK

TIGER FISHING

Previously King Shaka’s hunting grounds, now home to the Big 5 and luxury accommodation.

Go fishing in Lake Jozini – South Africa’s third largest lake and home to tiger fish.

EMAKHOSINI VALLEY

ISANDLWANA BATTLE SITE

The cradle of the Zulu nation, overlooking burial sites of the Kings.

Commemorating the remarkable story of a fantastic Zulu victory between the British Empire and the Zulu Kingdom.

CANOPY TOUR

ENCOME MUSEUM

Experience nature like never before as you slide through the forest canopy and enjoy a unique birds-eye view.

A tribute to Zulu warriors who fought bravely at the battle of Blood River.

USHAKA MARINE WORLD South Africa’s most loved marine theme park offering world class entertainment.

BATTLE OF AMAJUBA MONUMENT Walk up Majuba Mountain to the battlefield site of the First Boer War.

EMAZIZINI CULTURAL VILLAGE

SCAN ME for a virtual experience

Meet friendly locals and experience rural culture in the mountains with a visit to the local ‘marketplace’.

SPIOENKOP NATURE RESERVE

BUSHMAN CAVES

A popular destination for water sport enthusiasts and those in search of the wild.

Home to some of the most wellpreserved bushman paintings in South Africa.

MUSEUMS

MANDELA CAPTURE SITE

Historical gems tracing diverse history and rich cultural heritage.

Commemorating the arrest site of iconic leader, Nelson Mandela with a world renowned sculpture and visitor centre.

VALLEY OF 1000 HILLS

INANDA HERITAGE ROUTE

A place where the true and untainted beauty of Africa is celebrated in its scenery, animals, culture and history.

Explore the preservation of a remarkable heritage set in the Inanda Valley.

BIG SWING Experience the ultimate ride of your life at the world’s biggest and only stadium swing.

SCOVER IN KZN

KWAZULU-NATAL

SCUBA DIVING

ESTUARY BOAT CRUISE

PONGOLA GAME RESERVE

The best places to scuba & stay while you’re in KZN!

Cruise along the estuary to get up close to Hippos, Nile Crocodiles and hundreds of bird species.

Go exploring on safari or adventure along the lake to see some of KZN’s best features.

TURTLE SPORTING

ITHALA GAME RESERVE

Ancient nesting rituals of Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles, which you won’t see anywhere else in Africa!

A game viewers paradise with some of the world’s oldest rock formations.

SANI PASS TOUR

KING SHAKA MEMORIAL

Experience amazing far-off remote places, beautiful scenery and immerse yourself in Basotho culture.

Get a glimpse into the history of King Shaka and visit his memorial site.

MICROLIGHTING Experience the province that has it all from up high – take the adventurous route!

BEACH AND SURFING

THE LUTHULI MUSEUM

With plentiful surf spots and idyllic warm weather all-year round, KZN is the ultimate destination for beachgoers from far and wide.

Commemorating one of the greatest South African leaders, Nobel Peace Prize winner and politician Albert Luthuli.

NDUMO GAME RESERVE

HOT AIR BALLOONING

Home to the wild and spectacular bird life with over 430 species.

Experience the awesome thrill and peaceful serenity of hot air ballooning at the edge of the Drakensberg mountains.

WHALE WATCHING

SHAKALAND Hailed as one of the best Zulu experiences on the continent – giving visitors authentic African experiences!

A premium whale watching destination with an estimated 7000 humpback whales along the KZN coast.

MARKETS

SCUBA DIVING AND SHARK CAGE DIVING

From spice to art and everything in between, enjoy a relaxed day of sightseeing and shopping.

SCAN ME for a virtual experience

ORIBI GORGE NATURE RESERVE The Oribi Gorge area boasts cliffs and forests, and spectacular hiking trails and idyllic picnic sites.

Get your adrenaline pumping as you get up close to sharks or explore the reef while you scuba dive.

GORGE SWING

ZIPLINING

Unlock the adrenaline rush of a lifetime at Oribi Gorge on the South Coast as you jump off the world’s highest gorge swing.

Experience Africa’s longest zipline at Lake Eland which soars 680m and 300m high above the Oribi Gorge.

BELIEVE IT Local government is where tourism happens, and this is why local government is best placed to create a memorable experience for tourists. Importantly, as set out in Chapter 7 – Section 152 of the Constitution, one of the objectives of Local Government is to promote social and economic development.

“IN AN EFFORT TO PROMOTE RURAL TOURISM, CREATE JOBS AND ALLEVIATE POVERTY, KWAZULU-NATAL WILL OBSERVE WORLD TOURISM DAY ON SEPTEMBER 27, UNDER THE THEME TOURISM AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT” Writes KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Nomusa Dube-Ncube.

As inspired by the South African theme for this year’s World Tourism Day – ‘Tourism and Rural Development,’ our main focus is to ensure that tourism becomes a catalyst for socio-economic development at a local level. We are committed to harnessing the potential of tourism to transform the lives of rural communities. Over the past few months, we have been preparing for a post COVID-19 era. We can confirm that the people of this province, across all corners, are ready to welcome visitors from different parts of the country and the globe.

We have destinations that are abundant in natural beauty and we have a diversity in heritage and culture. Local is lekker… and rural is restful. This is the call from KZN to tourists to explore local fun destinations off the beaten track.

As we contend with the coronavirus lockdown, the call of the fish eagle, often referred to as “the voice of Africa”, joins the loud choruses of the many birds at Lake St Lucia. The leopard keeps his night time vigil watching over the wildlife at Hluhluwe Game Reserve. Clear, chilled water continues to cascade over boulders in valleys of the Drakensberg uKhahlamba National Park.

The “Greatest Shoal on Earth” is still making the annual Sardine Run along KwaZulu-Natal’s South Coast – a sight to behold as they are followed closely by a number of dolphins, whales and seabirds.

The newly opened and updated Nelson Mandela Capture Site museum, near Howick, is waiting to tell the complete story of Madiba’s life with concise narrative and pictures, as well as to treat tourists to selfies against the sculpture of Madiba’s face made from perfectly aligned steel strips – a unique tribute to one of the greatest apostles of peace.

We are ready to welcome you to KZN… the province that has it all. Believe it!

www.zulu.org.za #KZNHasItAll

A DURBAN icon, the legend of the bunny chow is as saucy and peppered with spice as the delectable meal itself.

Some say the now world-famous delight originated on the sugar cane fields of KwaZuluNatal, among the indentured Indian labourers who arrived in South Africa in 1860.

It is said the workers filled hollowed-out loaves of bread with the curry as a convenient way to carry their lunches as they toiled the cane fields.

Another theory is that a restaurant created the bunny chow to serve food to Indian workers who were not allowed to eat in restaurants during apartheid. The meals were served at the back.

Others claim bunny chow was invented for the Indian caddies at the Royal Durban Golf Course.

Caddies were unable to get off from work to eat lunch in the Indian area in Durban’s Grey Street, so families brought in curry from the city and hollowed-out loaves of bread was a way of transporting the curry.

Whatever its origin, the Durban bunny chow is a global culinary legend. Come savour the flavour.

SUGAR & SPICE

simply …

breathtaking

Explore Thompson’s Bay and see the Hole In The Wall Cost: Free 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. Has an especially wonderful view at sunrise.

From the sweeping views at Lake Eland to the crashing waves viewed from the Hole In The Wall at Thompson Bay Beach – KwaZuluNatal is abound with natural beauty and exciting cultural experiences in which to immerse yourself. Sacha van Niekerk found some budget-friendly gems

Traverse a suspension bridge at Oribi Gorge Cost: R65pp 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 can only 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.

Discover the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Cost: Adults: R28 Children (under the age of 16): R16 Vehicle entry charge: R29 Community Levy: R5 per person ISimangaliso Wetland Park is a huge protected area along the coast of KZN. It stretches 220kms 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.

Explore nature at the uMhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve Entrance: Free 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 the outdoors and who enjoy more of a challenge. The reserve is the ideal destination for bird watching, picnicking, trail running and selfguided walks. Try out their many hiking trails 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.

Explore Durban Botanical Gardens Entrance: Free Straws mats tucked under arms and a picnic basket brimming with sandwiches swaying in the other, as trails of cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents walk under a canopy of trees. Durban Botanical Gardens is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. The birdlife is plentiful and the plant life is sublime, so it’s easy to lose yourself for a few hours while indulging in a picnic lunch by the lake. The gardens are open everyday from 7.30am until 5.15pm.

Admire the scenic 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 and 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.

Take in the scenery and scents at the Chocolate Gardens Entrance: Free for those eating at café The gardens of de Charmoy Estate, Africa’s first Chocolate Garden, in Verulam, is a wonderful venue for your next family outing. Inspired by chocolate, it includes a variety of chocolatecoloured plants, chocolate-scented flowers, herbs and vines.

A chocolate garden is a delight to the senses, perfect for those who love the taste, colour and the smell of chocolate. Planted in August 2017, all the plants were chosen with great consideration given to non-invasive plants, balancing water needs and climate.

The venue is child-friendly with roaming giant tortoises, geese and rabbits as well as a play area. Sitting down at their café, with tables placed along paths that wind through the garden, the menu has a variety of scrumptious options available. The Chocolate Garden is open Friday to Sunday from 8am to 4pm. See www. decharmoy.co.za/coffee-shop for more information.

Indulge in a Durban-style curry Cost: R49 to R70 a portion There’s nowhere else in the country that does curry like Durban. From unique spice blends that add flavour and heat to the aroma of curry leaves and the rich red colour of the gravy that soaks into the meltin-your-mouth potatoes, tucking into one is all part of embracing the true Durban experience. If you’re looking to satisfy your taste buds with more authentic Indian dishes, Durban is the ultimate treasure trove of hidden restaurant gems. When it comes to generous portion sizes and authentic and tasty flavours, Goundens in Umbilo Road is where it’s at. Satisfy monster curry cravings with mutton, chicken, fish or mince curry or try something different and dig into kebabs or chops chutney for a change.

Prices range from R49 to R70.

Get cultural at Phansi Museum Entrance: R70 for adults and R50 for students Durban is home to an array of museums that house objects of historical, scientific, artistic, or cultural interest. Operating from a fully restored Victorian national monument in Glenwood, the Phansi Museum bursts with culture. The three floors of the mansion showcase Zulu beadwork, earplugs, wire

baskets, beer-pots, fertility dolls, Ndebele blankets and ceremonial items and artefacts from the Eastern Cape, Namibia and Kenya.

The most popular exhibit is the life-size marionette room, where 30 life-size puppets are adorned with ceremonial dress from all over Southern Africa. The museum is open Monday to Thursday, from 8am-4pm, 8am-3pm on Fridays, 10am-2pm on Saturdays, and is closed on Sundays.

Visit the Mandela Capture Site Cost: Free Get in touch with the history of our country by visiting the Nelson Mandela Capture Site. The first democratic president of our country was arrested on August 5, 1962, outside Howick, Natal. He was then sent to Robben Island, where he spent the next 27 years in prison. The location was originally marked with a modest plaque. However, to mark the 50th anniversary for his arrest, in 2012 a steel structure – designed by Marco Cianfanelli – was erected, between Nottingham Road and Howick in KwaZulu-Natal.

The

ULTIMATE

KZN bucket list COMPILED BY CLINTON MOODLEY

SHARK-CAGE DIVING

If you want some serious adventure, try sharkcage diving at Rocky Bay in Park Rynie. You will see anything from five to 20 sharks during the two-hour trip. The activity is permitted for nonswimmers and those with no diving experience.

Visit www.sharkcagedivingkzn.com/shark-cagediving-durban

SELFIE AT HOWICK FALLS Standing at 95m high, Howick Falls is one of the Midlands’ most popular natural sites.

You could pack a picnic basket as it makes the ideal lunch pit stop. However, arrive early as the place does get very busy.

WHALEBONE PIER WALK The Whalebone Pier, or uMhlanga Pier, was voted the most beautiful pier by CNN in 2014. If you are visiting uMhlanga, take an evening stroll on the pier, which offers spectacular views of the Indian Ocean.

ZIPLINE AT LAKE ELAND

Known as the longest zip-line tour in Africa, visitors to Eland Lake, pictured on the cover, get to see the stunning Oribi Gorge in all its glory. The complete tour has 14 slides with 18 platforms.

Visit www.lakeeland.co.za/ zip-line for more information.

ORIBI GORGE ADVENTURE

If you are looking for a thrillseeking activity during your holiday, then experience the Wild Gorge Swing at Oribi Gorge.

It’s known as the longest gorge swing in South Africa (165m) and the longest of its kind in the world. Visit http://www. wild5adventures.co.za

TOWNSHIP EXPERIENCE uMlazi, KwaMashu, Inanda and Chesterville are some of the townships that have created insightful tours to appease the growing demand for township tourism. Be sure to end the day with a meaty shisanyama (braai) experience.

HIPPO AND CROC SPOTTING AT ST LUCIA

St Lucia is home to the largest free-roaming population – including hippo and Nile crocodiles – in South Africa.

The best way to “experience” them is on a boat cruise at Lake St Lucia, where guides share their expertise and provide commentary on the workings of Africa’s largest estuarine system.

MANDELA CAPTURE SITE The site is famous for being where the former president was arrested by police on August 5, 1962. Once a small, bricked area with a plaque, the site has been transformed into an Instaworthy destination that houses the late freedom fighter’s rich history.

Visit https://www.thecapturesite. co.za/

GO IN SEARCH OF THE BIG 5

A safari experience at range of game reserves lies just a threehour drive up north.

Most reserves offer Big 5 sightings and they provide stateof-the-art accommodation for travellers.

10

day trips you just can’t miss

COASTING

down south

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Delicious dining

Hiking and birdwatching

The South Coast offers 10 nature reserves including Clearwater Trails and Ingeli Forest that provide numerous walking trails. Go in search of indigenous birds and wildlife while you take in nature.

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Game viewing

Situated in Oribi Gorge, Lake Eland Game Reserve consists of 2 500 hectares of diverse ecosystems, home to a variety of wildlife and natural vegetation.

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Horse riding on the beach

Selsdon ParkEstate, 20 minutes from Shelly Beach, offers an incredibly unique experience in beachside horse riding.

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Stretching 120km from Scottburgh to Port Edward and inland to Harding, this area boasts a wide range of foodie establishments including Mac Banana, Waffle House, Beaver Creek, Packed Shed and The Dog House.

4X4 excursions

Thrillseekers, come on down!

One of the recent excursions is KwaNzimakwe Multi-Trails, which form part of the USCT Great Drives Out initiative, where travellers can enjoy a scenic drive that traverses the Mpenjati River Valley.

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Desert trekking

The KZN South Coast boasts the world’s smallest desert.

The Red Desert, located 10km from Port Edward, is just 200m in diameter and consists of rich, red soil that once held archaeological artefacts.

Non-stop adventure

At the Wild Gorge Swing, at Oribi Gorge, the brave-atheart- can take in the spectacular views as they zipline across the gorge. Visitors can also learn about the prehistoric rock paintings by the San at KwaXolo Caves Adventure.

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Golf tour

This region has been dubbed ‘The Golf Coast’ because of its 11 immaculate, oceanside golf courses. From the 18-hole championship course at San Lameer to the captivating scenery of the Scottburgh Country Club semi-links course, there is a green for every golfer.

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An oceanside excursion

The 120-kilometre coastline consists of 58 idyllic beaches, including five with Blue-Flag status. Families can enjoy beach walks on the promenade as they take in endless ocean views and the fresh sea air.

Whale watching

From July to November, migrant Humpback and Southern Right whales move northwards along the coast. See them from a number of spots, including the Umtentweni Conservancy Whale Deck, Ramsgate Whale Deck, and Umdoni Golf Club Whale Deck.

What a lot we’ve got From zip lines to shark cage diving, there’s something for every type of adventure lover in KwaZulu-Natal.

Clinton Moodley shares his picks BIG 5: Spot the Big 5 at Africa’s oldest proclaimed nature reserve, HluhluweiMfolozi Park. For privacy, head to a private game reserve, or take a self game drive to the many safari spots across the province.

SCENIC BEAUTY: Breathtaking mountain ranges, forest trails and flourishing bushland provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities.

COASTAL AND BEACH EXPERIENCES: KZN boasts 600km of coastline, perfect for lazy days at the beach, snorkelling, swimming and water sports.

CULTURE AND HERITAGE: Whether it’s a trip to a Zulu village or a Hindu temple, the province showcases some top cultural and heritage spots.