Flanked to the east by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and to the west by the soaring peaks of the mighty Drakensberg Mountains, KwaZulu-Natal offers something for everyone. If you are in search of some quality KwaZulu-Natal gems to explore post lockdown, here’s our favourite hidden gems to discover in KwaZulu-Natal.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park
Previously known as the St Lucia Wetland Park, iSimangaliso Wetland Park lies on the north eastern edge of KwaZulu-Natal in the sublimely beautiful region known as the Elephant Coast. The iSimangaliso Wetland Park is one of the outstanding natural wetland and coastal sites of Africa. Covering an area of 239,566 ha, it includes a wide range of pristine marine, coastal, wetland, estuarine, and terrestrial environments which are scenically beautiful and basically unmodified by people. Spend your time sinking into the sandy beaches, partaking in boat cruises, guided walks, or even galloping across the horizon via horseback.
Mkhomazi Wilderness
One of the most isolated parts of the Drakensberg Mountains, Mkhomazi is a series of wetlands, deep gorges and rolling grasslands independent of the main escarpment. One of the most popular view points entails a hike up to Sinclair’s Shelter, one of two overnight caves for hiking. Not an easy route, the views over Inzinga Valley are worth it.
Tala Game Reserve
Tala Game Reserve brings the African bush to our door, just an hour away from Durban. Tala Game Reserve is home to 380 species of birds and big game—including rhinos, wildebeests, warthogs, hippos, and giraffes. The sanctuary is spread over 7,400 acres of African bushveld. You have the options of taking a two-hour guided bushwalk, riding with a ranger on a two-hour game drive, or exploring the park at your own pace on a self-drive safari. You can also choose to hang out for lunch at their restaurant or even book in for a night in one of the reserve’s luxury lodges or rustic rondavels.
Phezulu Safari Park
Situated in the gorgeous Valley of 1000 Hills, is another hidden gem, enjoyed mostly by overseas tourists. Go back to your roots and take a guided tour around the Phezulu Zulu Kraal and hang around for some traditional dance. Show times are at 10:00am and 11:30 then again at 14:00 and 15:30. The Phezulu Safari park also boasts a reptile park with crocodiles and knowledgeable guides to teach you about these prehistoric creatures. There is also the option of a game drive where you can spot blesbok, impala, wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, duiker and bush pig.
KwaZulu-Natal is a fantasy land of nature and wonder in the most abundant ways possible. If you’re looking for exciting job opportunities in South Africa, make sure you click through to our job section.