BEST OF KWAZULU-NATAL
BEST OF KWAZULU-NATAL
This epic nine-night self-drive tour which combines the Drakensberg Mountains, KwaZulu Natal Midlands, Zululand and Durban incorporates two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of history at your own pace.
Marvel at the majestic Drakensburg Mountains, where towering peaks and lush valleys create a breathtaking landscape, then relive the Battle of Isandlwana, one of the most significant battles in Zulu history, and pay your respects to the fallen warriors at the historic battlefields of KwaZulu Natal Midlands.
Head to Zululand and embark on a safari in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, Africa's oldest proclaimed nature reserve, where you can track down the 'big 5', lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. Then drive to the quaint coastal town of St Lucia, gateway to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and over 500 species of birds.
Finally, relax on sun-kissed beaches north of the city of Durban, or explore the city's vibrant culture and attractions before rounding off your KwaZulu Natal adventure.
Standard Self-Drive Tour
Head to Zululand and embark on a safari in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, Africa's oldest proclaimed nature reserve, where you can track down the 'big 5', lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. Then drive to the quaint coastal town of St Lucia, gateway to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and over 500 species of birds.
Finally, relax on sun-kissed beaches north of the city of Durban, or explore the city's vibrant culture and attractions before rounding off your KwaZulu Natal adventure.
Standard Self-Drive Tour
Day 1 Drakensberg
Welcome to South Africa! You'll be met on arrival at Durban's King Shaka International Airport and assisted to pick up your hire car. Then head west to the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, the Barrier of Spears!
The uKahlamba Drakensberg Mountain range is the South African part of the greater Maloti-Drakensberg Park, a multi-national UNESCO World Heritage Site of exceptional natural beauty and diversity of habitats.
En route to the Drakensberg, take a moment to stop at Howick in the midlands and explore the Nelson Mandela Capture site. Here, a remarkable sculpture commemorates the 50th anniversary of Nelson Mandela's capture. It comprises 50 laser-cut steel columns, varying between 6 and 9.5 meters in height, spread across a thirty-meter length. This poignant sculpture, resembling a forest of steel poles, stands as a visible reminder and tribute to the historic event, easily visible from the road.
Unwind after your day's journey at your hotel nestled in a serene valley, encircled by the magnificent peaks of the Drakensberg. Discover the array of amenities available, including 18 walks and mountain hiking trails, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a charming mini-golf course.
Overnight : Cathedral Peak
Meals : Breakfast
The uKahlamba Drakensberg Mountain range is the South African part of the greater Maloti-Drakensberg Park, a multi-national UNESCO World Heritage Site of exceptional natural beauty and diversity of habitats.
En route to the Drakensberg, take a moment to stop at Howick in the midlands and explore the Nelson Mandela Capture site. Here, a remarkable sculpture commemorates the 50th anniversary of Nelson Mandela's capture. It comprises 50 laser-cut steel columns, varying between 6 and 9.5 meters in height, spread across a thirty-meter length. This poignant sculpture, resembling a forest of steel poles, stands as a visible reminder and tribute to the historic event, easily visible from the road.
Unwind after your day's journey at your hotel nestled in a serene valley, encircled by the magnificent peaks of the Drakensberg. Discover the array of amenities available, including 18 walks and mountain hiking trails, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a charming mini-golf course.
Overnight : Cathedral Peak
Meals : Breakfast
Day 2 Drakensberg
The choice is yours of how to immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery and discover the natural wonders of this enchanting destination.
Explore the captivating landscapes surrounding Cathedral Peak, whether by embarking on a hiking adventure or enjoying a scenic horseback ride. Start your day early by exploring the hiking trails directly accessible from your hotel or opt for a picturesque horseback ride through the valley.
Embark on a scenic drive to Champagne Valley, where you'll be captivated by the breathtaking vistas of Champagne Castle and Cathkin Peak. While there, consider visiting Giants Castle, where a leisurely 30-minute hike leads you to the Main Caves where you can immerse yourself in history as you witness prehistoric San paintings. Alternatively, venture towards Injisuthi Valley, nestled in the shadow of South Africa's tallest peak.
Overnight : Cathedral Peak
Meals : Breakfast
Explore the captivating landscapes surrounding Cathedral Peak, whether by embarking on a hiking adventure or enjoying a scenic horseback ride. Start your day early by exploring the hiking trails directly accessible from your hotel or opt for a picturesque horseback ride through the valley.
Embark on a scenic drive to Champagne Valley, where you'll be captivated by the breathtaking vistas of Champagne Castle and Cathkin Peak. While there, consider visiting Giants Castle, where a leisurely 30-minute hike leads you to the Main Caves where you can immerse yourself in history as you witness prehistoric San paintings. Alternatively, venture towards Injisuthi Valley, nestled in the shadow of South Africa's tallest peak.
Overnight : Cathedral Peak
Meals : Breakfast
Day 3 Drakensberg - Battlefields
After a hearty breakfast, it's time to bid farewell to the majestic Drakensberg. Your journey continues through the Natal Midlands towards KwaZulu-Natal's historically significant battlefields, where the echoes of Anglo, Boer, and Zulu conflicts resonate through time.
We suggest you make a stop at Dundee, nestled in the valley of the Biggarsberg Mountains for lunch at Talana Museum, situated on the outskirts of Dundee. This museum holds a significant place as it stands on the site of the 1899 Anglo Boer War Battle of Talana Hill, offering a unique perspective on historical events while you enjoy a delicious meal.
Once you've completed your journey, relax at your acclaimed boutique lodge nestled in the historic heartlands of KwaZulu Natal. Unwind on the deck with a refreshing sundowner before indulging in a lavish dinner experience.
Overnight : Isandlwana Lodge
Meals : Breakfast and Dinner
We suggest you make a stop at Dundee, nestled in the valley of the Biggarsberg Mountains for lunch at Talana Museum, situated on the outskirts of Dundee. This museum holds a significant place as it stands on the site of the 1899 Anglo Boer War Battle of Talana Hill, offering a unique perspective on historical events while you enjoy a delicious meal.
Once you've completed your journey, relax at your acclaimed boutique lodge nestled in the historic heartlands of KwaZulu Natal. Unwind on the deck with a refreshing sundowner before indulging in a lavish dinner experience.
Overnight : Isandlwana Lodge
Meals : Breakfast and Dinner
Day 4 Battlefields
Begin your day with an early start for a comprehensive full-day tour exploring the renowned Battlefields of Rorke's Drift and Isandlwana. These sites bear witness to two pivotal conflicts of the Anglo-Zulu wars, where the British Armies clashed with the Zulu forces.
Over the years, these lands have been witness to intense battles involving the Boers, Brits, and Zulus, each leaving their mark on this historically rich terrain. Led by an experienced guide, the tour will immerse you in the captivating narratives illuminating this region's history.
After your tour relish the scenic journey back to your lodge through KwaZulu Natal's breathtaking landscapes which provide a perfect backdrop for reflection, before enjoying a satisfying dinner upon your return.
Overnight : Isandlwana Lodge
Meals : Breakfast and Dinner
Over the years, these lands have been witness to intense battles involving the Boers, Brits, and Zulus, each leaving their mark on this historically rich terrain. Led by an experienced guide, the tour will immerse you in the captivating narratives illuminating this region's history.
After your tour relish the scenic journey back to your lodge through KwaZulu Natal's breathtaking landscapes which provide a perfect backdrop for reflection, before enjoying a satisfying dinner upon your return.
Overnight : Isandlwana Lodge
Meals : Breakfast and Dinner
Day 5 Battlefields - Hluhluwe
Today, journey into Zululand, a rural region within KwaZulu Natal and the ancestral home of the esteemed Zulu Nation. Along the way you'll encounter various sites of significant cultural importance that bear testimony to the rich heritage of this area.
One such highlight is the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, globally recognized for its exceptional conservation endeavors. Notably, the park's pioneering efforts in rescuing the white rhinoceros from extinction stand as a landmark achievement. This park proudly holds the distinction of being the oldest reserve on the African continent.
Arrive and settle into your chalet at Hluhluwe River Lodge which overlooks the southern reach of Lake St Lucia known as False Bay.
In the afternoon, prepare for an exhilarating guided game drive within the park, an opportunity to seek out the renowned 'big 5' in their natural habitat.
Overnight : Hluhluwe River Lodge
Meals : Breakfast and Dinner
One such highlight is the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, globally recognized for its exceptional conservation endeavors. Notably, the park's pioneering efforts in rescuing the white rhinoceros from extinction stand as a landmark achievement. This park proudly holds the distinction of being the oldest reserve on the African continent.
Arrive and settle into your chalet at Hluhluwe River Lodge which overlooks the southern reach of Lake St Lucia known as False Bay.
In the afternoon, prepare for an exhilarating guided game drive within the park, an opportunity to seek out the renowned 'big 5' in their natural habitat.
Overnight : Hluhluwe River Lodge
Meals : Breakfast and Dinner
Day 6 Hluhluwe
Today, you have the option to embark on a morning or an afternoon game drive within the park. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is Kwazulu-Natal's pride and joy and home a diverse array of 84 game species. Explore the hilly terrain as you search for glimpses of rhinos, lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, and an array of other fascinating wildlife. Traverse these landscapes, which promise breathtaking views amidst your wildlife adventures.
Alternatively, immerse yourself in a leisurely walking trail, ideal for birdwatching enthusiasts looking to discover some of the 425 listed avian species in the area.
During your downtime between game drives, consider exploring the fantastic mountain biking trails designed for all skill levels, ranging from beginners to expert riders.
Overnight : Hluhluwe River Lodge
Meals : Breakfast and Dinner
Alternatively, immerse yourself in a leisurely walking trail, ideal for birdwatching enthusiasts looking to discover some of the 425 listed avian species in the area.
During your downtime between game drives, consider exploring the fantastic mountain biking trails designed for all skill levels, ranging from beginners to expert riders.
Overnight : Hluhluwe River Lodge
Meals : Breakfast and Dinner
Day 7 Hluhluwe - St Lucia
Savor your final morning in Hluhluwe before embarking on a brief drive to St Lucia, a village nestled within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ecological significance.
Check in to your quaint lodge situated within a 5 minute walk of all the restaurants, craft market, walking trails and main attractions of the village of St Lucia. The thatched main building of the lodge was one of the first erected in the village which is full of old world Zululand charm. Spend your afternoon discovering this charming coastal village, known for occasional sightings of hippos strolling along its main road.
Consider joining an interpretive guided walk in the Eastern Shores Game Reserve to delve deeper into the area's natural wonders.
Overnight : Lidiko Lodge
Meals : Breakfast
Check in to your quaint lodge situated within a 5 minute walk of all the restaurants, craft market, walking trails and main attractions of the village of St Lucia. The thatched main building of the lodge was one of the first erected in the village which is full of old world Zululand charm. Spend your afternoon discovering this charming coastal village, known for occasional sightings of hippos strolling along its main road.
Consider joining an interpretive guided walk in the Eastern Shores Game Reserve to delve deeper into the area's natural wonders.
Overnight : Lidiko Lodge
Meals : Breakfast
Day 8 St Lucia - Durban
Before departing St Lucia, embark on a morning boat cruise aboard a double-decker vessel, offering a unique perspective of the St Lucia Estuary from the water. Anticipate encountering hippos, crocodiles, and a diverse array of birdlife during this scenic two-hour cruise.
Upon returning ashore, it's time to hit the road and journey towards one of South Africa's beloved coastal destinations-Durban. Make yourself comfortable at your hotel in uMhlanga, an upscale suburb situated north of the city celebrated for its magnificent beaches, vibrant atmosphere, and high-end shopping and dining options. Nearby, discover a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and bars awaiting your exploration.
Consider a walk along the promenade past the beaches of uMhlanga. Popular with runners, locals and visitors the paved walkway stretches past the whalebone pier and Umhlanga Lighthouse.
Overnight: Protea Hotel Durban Umhlanga
Meals : Breakfast
Upon returning ashore, it's time to hit the road and journey towards one of South Africa's beloved coastal destinations-Durban. Make yourself comfortable at your hotel in uMhlanga, an upscale suburb situated north of the city celebrated for its magnificent beaches, vibrant atmosphere, and high-end shopping and dining options. Nearby, discover a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and bars awaiting your exploration.
Consider a walk along the promenade past the beaches of uMhlanga. Popular with runners, locals and visitors the paved walkway stretches past the whalebone pier and Umhlanga Lighthouse.
Overnight: Protea Hotel Durban Umhlanga
Meals : Breakfast
Day 9 Durban
Take advantage of your last day to unwind following your tour and immerse yourself in the splendor of Umhlanga Beach, renowned for its safe swimming conditions-ideal for those cautious about the ocean's depths. Enjoy the sun-kissed golden sands that are perfect for relaxation, and delve into the exceptional offshore snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities, esteemed as among South Africa's finest.
Alternatively, consider embarking on one of the diverse city tours available to explore the greater Durban area. Discover the historical significance of Durban Botanic Gardens, established in 1849, or visit Moses Mabhida Stadium, constructed for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Additionally, explore various art galleries and museums, showcasing Durban's rich cultural tapestry and offering a plethora of experiences worth exploring.
Overnight: Protea Hotel Durban Umhlanga
Meals : Breakfast
Alternatively, consider embarking on one of the diverse city tours available to explore the greater Durban area. Discover the historical significance of Durban Botanic Gardens, established in 1849, or visit Moses Mabhida Stadium, constructed for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Additionally, explore various art galleries and museums, showcasing Durban's rich cultural tapestry and offering a plethora of experiences worth exploring.
Overnight: Protea Hotel Durban Umhlanga
Meals : Breakfast
Day 10 Depart
After your relaxing stay in this magnificent area, you will drive to Durban's King Shaka International Airport (18 km) to return your hire car in time to connect with your onward travel arrangements.
Meals : Breakfast
Meals : Breakfast
This itinerary is also available as:
4*+ Luxury Self-Drive Tour
Day 1 Drakensberg - Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse
Day 2 Drakensberg - Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse
Day 3 Battlefields - Isandlwana Lodge
Day 4 Battlefields - Isandlwana Lodge
Day 5 Hluhluwe - Thanda Private Game Reserve
Day 6 Hluhluwe - Thanda Private Game Reserve
Day 7 St Lucia - Amazulu Lodge
Day 8 Durban - Oyster Box Hotel
Day 9 Durban - Oyster Box Hotel
At Thanda Private Game Reserve in Hluhluwe, all meals and selected beverages are included.
Where Next
Add to your experience by extending your holiday to one of these easy to combine destinations: Victoria Falls, Mozambique, Malawi, Seychelles, Mauritius or Dubai.
4*+ Luxury Self-Drive Tour
Day 1 Drakensberg - Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse
Day 2 Drakensberg - Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse
Day 3 Battlefields - Isandlwana Lodge
Day 4 Battlefields - Isandlwana Lodge
Day 5 Hluhluwe - Thanda Private Game Reserve
Day 6 Hluhluwe - Thanda Private Game Reserve
Day 7 St Lucia - Amazulu Lodge
Day 8 Durban - Oyster Box Hotel
Day 9 Durban - Oyster Box Hotel
At Thanda Private Game Reserve in Hluhluwe, all meals and selected beverages are included.
Where Next
Add to your experience by extending your holiday to one of these easy to combine destinations: Victoria Falls, Mozambique, Malawi, Seychelles, Mauritius or Dubai.
