Kwazulu-Natal

About Kwazulu-Natal

Affectionately referred to as KZN, Kwazulu-Natal is often overlooked as a destination, however, is a "world in one country” in itself!  This subtropical province is flanked by the majestic Drakensberg Mountains to the west, lapped by the warm Indian Ocean with unspoilt beaches to the east, with Mozambique to the north.

It’s a unique blend of sophistication, cultural diversity and excitement – in the most breath-taking setting imaginable includes two world heritage sites -the mountainous 'Barrier of Spears' uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site, adorned with Stone Age cave paintings, and iSimangaliso (Greater St Lucia) Wetland Park World Heritage Site. With some of the best Big 5 game reserves, KZN boasts having the oldest proclaimed game reserve in South Africa – the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve. The historic Battlefields, the rich Zulu and timeless Indian cultures, warm climate and endless beaches make it an irresistible destination.

Durban is the gateway,  a vibrant city and holiday resort, firmly placed on any acclaimed surfers itinerary and famous for outstanding curry restaurants.

For more information, why not speak to one of our experts on +44 (0) 20 7843 3500 or email info@africatravel.co.uk

Seasons

• Summer (November to February) - Very warm throughout the day. Huge thunderstorms are commonplace. Turtles are hatching on the beaches in the North-East
• Autumn (March to May) - Cooler, with better conditions for safari. Some rains, but the vegetation stays lush and green
• Winter (June and July) - Can get very cold, but daytime temperatures are pleasant. A beautiful time of year with all activities and excursions in full swing. Snow-capped Drakensberg Mountains make for a backdrop to your days out
• Spring (August to October) - Warmer, but still nice and dry so ideal for touring the province. Great for safari too. Cool evenings are best spent around the fireplace enjoying a glass of South African Wine

Wildlife

Hyenas live in large clans that can consist of up to 80 members

The wildebeest weighs between 300 and 600 pounds

A group of Bush Pigs is called sounders

The pattern of a zebra's stripes are unique to each individual zebra

At birth, baby rhinos weigh between 88-140 pounds

African Buffalos have a symbiotic relationship with many African birds such as the Oxpecker

The fastest land animal in the world, a cheetah can reach 70 miles per hour in 3 seconds

Leopards can see seven times better in the dark than humans

African elephants can currently be found in 37 African countries

Giraffes can run as fast as 35 miles per hour

Lions spend 16-20 hours of the day sleeping or resting

In The Know

• A fantastic destination for second-time visitors to South Africa, you can include a safari in the itinerary and fly to Cape Town can easily be incorporated as well
• Although it can be cooler, visiting the province in Winter (May through August) makes for some stunning views of the snow-capped Drakensberg Mountains and great game viewing
• If you are travelling between October and March make sure to visit the beach lodges in the Northern part of the province for the chance to see Turtles laying their eggs on the beach at night
• Drive to the top of the Sani Pass and visit the highest pub in Africa
• Make sure you include a trip to wonderful Fugitive’s Drift Lodge at the Battlefields to hear the stories of the battles of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift