KwaZulu Natal, the easternmost province of South Africa, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and shares borders with Lesotho, Mozambique, and Eswatini. In addition to the reefs, swamps, and mangroves of iSimangaliso Wetland Park being the ideal location for unusual safaris to see crocodiles and hippos, daredevils can test their mettle on the Indian Ocean’s large surf, which breaks on the beaches surrounding Durban. Hiking the breathtaking Howick Falls or touring Maloti-Drakensberg Park, which is home to the nation’s tallest mountains and cave paintings, are two other activities in KwaZulu-Natal.
Sani Pass
The gateway between KwaZulu-Natal and the landlocked mountain Kingdom of Lesotho is Sani Pass, which is situated at an elevation of about 10,000 feet (2,865 meters) above sea level. Experience the rough, hairpin-turning dirt road on the steep ascent to the summit of Sani Pass with 4-wheel drive. Panoramic sights and a turbulent trip are your rewards.
Victoria Street Market
The oldest market in Durban is Victoria Street Market, which was constructed on the location of the Indian Market in 1910. The colorful new edifice, which has more than 200 booths scattered across two storeys, offers a heady mix of Africa and India. It sells everything from spices to luggage to Indian textiles to African goods, such as Zulu beading, and is simply referred to by the locals as “The Vic.”
iSimangaliso Wetland Park
You can easily see why iSimangaliso Wetland Park was the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in South Africa: crocodiles, hippos, and elephants call the wetlands farther inland home, while broad stretches of coastline are home to birds and sea turtles. The greatest way to experience this beautiful coastal landscape and the wildlife that South Africa is known for is by boat.
Nelson Mandela Capture Site
The picturesque, verdant region outside of Howick is associated with a troubling period in South Africa’s complicated history. Nelson Mandela, an anti-apartheid campaigner, was imprisoned while traveling in 1962. Before being released and elected as South Africa’s first president, he would spend 27 years in prison. Today, a beautiful sculpture and a visitor center mark the location of his capture.
Durban City Hall
One of the landmarks in downtown Durban is Durban City Hall. This vibrant neo-baroque structure has four smaller domes, a double-height stripy portico with a tall dome, and several sculptures. It houses the Durban Art Gallery, the Durban Natural Science Museum, a library, and an auditorium in addition to the municipal chambers.
Moses Mabhida Stadium
One of the best sports and concert venues in the nation is Moses Mabhida Stadium, which was constructed to host the 2010 World Cup. It stands out on the Durban waterfront thanks to its enormous arch and contemporary style. Push your limits on the largest stadium swing in the world and enjoy a glimpse of the city from the viewing platform at the top of the arch.
Isandlwana Battlefield
At Isandlwana in 1879, Zulu warriors armed primarily with traditional weapons murdered a British force armed with firearms and cannons, marking the biggest triumph in Zulu history and probably the worst defeat in British military history. A few of the survivors would later engage in combat at the neighboring Rorke’s Drift, which was portrayed in the British film Zulu in 1964.
Ushaka Marine World
One of Durban’s best waterfront attractions is Ushaka Marine World, which features enormous water slides, amazing marine life, and white sand beaches. There are eight attractions in this aquarium and theme park. In addition to racing down slides and testing their mettle on a ropes course, visitors may see marine life in the aquarium.
Valley of a Thousand Hills
The Valley of a Thousand Hills, surrounded by the picturesque mountains of South Africa and featuring animals, communities, and some of the best views in Kwa-Zulu Natal, provides a rustic experience close to Durban’s beaches and skyscrapers. Both locals and visitors find the valley to be a popular vacation spot because of its blend of culture and friendliness.
Durban Botanic Gardens
Africa’s oldest botanic gardens, which cover 37 acres, were founded in 1849. Just outside the city, the area is a verdant haven with meandering walks, well-kept lawns, and a wide variety of plants. Treasures include the Butterfly Garden, which features species indigenous to KwaZulu-Natal, and the Orchid House, which is home to over 8,000 plants.