Discover KwaZulu-Natal's Top Attractions
KwaZulu-Natal, a northeastern South African province, is a region of great beauty and cultural diversity. Highlights include the majestic Drakensberg mountains, Durban's inviting beaches, a rich Zulu heritage, and thrilling wildlife encounters, such as the chance to see the Big Five at Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park.
Explore the wonders of iSimangaliso Wetland Park, dive into the vibrant coral reefs of Sodwana Bay, and immerse yourself in the province's favorite pastimes.
1. The Drakensberg
![The Drakensberg](/media/south-africa-kwazulu-natal-drakensberg.jpg)
The Drakensberg, or "Dragon Mountains," is a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring high peaks, deep valleys, and ancient San rock paintings. Notable areas include uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park and Royal Natal National Park, home to the impressive Amphitheatre cliff face.
2. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park
![Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park](/media/south-africa-kwazulu-natal-hluhluwe-imfolozi-park.jpg)
Africa's oldest game park, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, offers a less crowded safari experience than Kruger National Park. It's renowned for its rhino conservation and diverse wildlife, including the Big Five.
3. iSimangaliso Wetland Park
![iSimangaliso Wetland Park](/media/south-africa-kwazulu-natal-isimangaliso-wetland-park-hippo.jpg)
iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a World Heritage Site, boasts a variety of ecosystems and an abundance of wildlife. Activities include snorkeling, bird watching, and game drives.
4. Sodwana Bay National Park
![Sodwana Bay National Park](/media/south-africa-kwazulu-natal-sodwana-bay-turtle.jpg)
As part of iSimangaliso, Sodwana Bay is a premier diving destination with rich marine life and coral reefs. Visitors can also enjoy turtle tours, fishing, and horseback riding.
5. Kwa Cheetah Breeding Project
![Kwa Cheetah Breeding Project](/media/south-africa-kwazulu-natal-cheetah.jpg)
The Kwa Cheetah Breeding Project at Nambiti Private Game Reserve offers interactive experiences with cheetahs and contributes to their conservation.
6. Nambiti Private Game Reserve
![Male lion in the Nambiti Private Game Reserve](/media/south-africa-kwazulu-top-attractions-nambiti-private-game-reserve-lion.jpg)
Nambiti Private Game Reserve, near the Drakensberg, provides guided safaris to see the Big Five and other wildlife. Accommodations range from luxury lodges to tented camps.
7. Sani Pass
![Sani Pass](/media/south-africa-kwazulu-natal-sani-pass.jpg)
The Sani Pass is a challenging mountain road connecting KwaZulu-Natal with Lesotho, offering stunning views and requiring a four-wheel drive vehicle.
8. Durban's Golden Mile
![Durban's Golden Mile](/media/south-africa-kwazulu-natal-top-attractions-durbans-golden-mile.jpg)
Durban's Golden Mile is a beachfront promenade lined with attractions, hotels, and eateries, perfect for enjoying the city's coastal charm.
9. The KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields Route
![The KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields Route](/media/south-africa-kwazulu-natal-isandlwana.jpg)
Explore the historic battlefields of the Zulus, Boers, and British with guided tours that bring the 19th-century conflicts to life.
10. Tatham Art Gallery, Pietermaritzburg
The Tatham Art Gallery in Pietermaritzburg showcases a mix of European and South African art, with a focus on local KwaZulu-Natal artists.
11. Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve
![Oribi Gorge](/media/south-africa-kwazulu-natal-top-attractions-oribi-gorge-nature-reserve.jpg)
Oribi Gorge offers outdoor activities like hiking, ziplining, and the world's highest swing across the gorge.
12. Nelson Mandela Capture Site
![The Nelson Mandela Capture Site](/media/south-africa-kwazulu-top-attractions-nelson-mandela-capture-site.jpg)
The Nelson Mandela Capture Site commemorates the place of Mandela's arrest with a striking sculpture and visitor center.
13. Valley of 1000 Hills Region
![Sunrise in the Valley of 1000 Hills](/media/south-africa-kwazulu-top-attractions-valley-1000-hills-region.jpg)
The Valley of 1000 Hills offers scenic landscapes and cultural experiences, including traditional Zulu villages.
14. Midlands Meander
![Karkloof Waterfall on the Midlands Meander](/media/south-africa-kwazulu-top-attractions-midlands-meander-karkloof-waterfall.jpg)
The Midlands Meander is an arts and crafts route with a variety of studios, shops, and outdoor activities set against the backdrop of the Drakensberg Mountains.