Why travel to Kwazulu-Natal?

With its balmy tropical climate, endless sunshine, lush beauty and a wealth of scenic and cultural attractions, KwaZulu-Natal is the quintessential holiday destination, and a popular choice for both locals and international visitors. This beautiful province offers an inexhaustible number of things to do and places to go, including golden beaches, excellent wildlife reserves, historic battlefields and awe-inspiring World Heritage Sites like the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

Taking centre stage is Durban, a laid-back coastal city that is one of South Africa’s best-kept secrets. With its golden beaches, warm seas, and fantastic child-friendly entertainment such as uShaka Marine World, Durban is an ideal family holiday destination. Plus, it’s only a 7-hour drive from Johannesburg, making for easy travel logistics. Just north of the city, the iconic Umhlanga Lighthouse invites you to explore the ‘Riviera of Durban’ and its gorgeous tropical beaches. Venturing further along the North Coast, Ballito is well known for its superb and safe beaches, while to the south, the quaint coastal towns of Port Edward, Port Shepstone and Margate are waiting to be discovered. Coffee tastings, adrenaline-fueled activities, outdoor adventures and more are on the menu on a Durban South Coast holiday.

Inland KwaZulu-Natal is equally magical. The dramatic Drakensberg Mountains set the scene for adventure holidays, while couples and families love the “Berg” for its breathtaking beauty, romantic scenery and entertaining activities to suit all ages. And then there is the creative Midlands Meander, a must-visit for art and craft enthusiasts.

Why holiday in KZN

Dubbed ‘South Africa’s playground’, the province offers a wild combination of coast, country and mountains.
The weather is superb year-round.
A safari holiday hotspot, KwaZulu-Natal is home to the Big 5, which can be found in many of its world-class parks and reserves.
KwaZulu-Natal is home to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa’s first World Heritage Site.
KZN’s rich heritage and fascinating history are waiting to be explored in Zululand.
Enjoy superb cuisine and seafood.
Spend time in Durban exploring the city, beaches and markets.
KwaZulu-Natal is a year-round holiday destination for every type of traveller. Where else in South Africa can you sunbathe on golden beaches in the middle of winter?

Whether you’re enjoying the ultimate beach break or exploring inland to discover some of the province’s more adventurous holiday destinations, book your KZN trip today and let’s plan your dream local getaway.

Things to do in Kwazulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal is one of South Africa’s most sought-after holiday destinations – and for a good reason. Not only is the weather superb all year round, but this tropical paradise offers some of the country’s most magnificent beaches and numerous attractions for young and old. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach break on the South Coast with family, want to enjoy a hike in the Drakensberg or would prefer to explore the North Coast, you’re in for a treat. Whatever you want to do, KwaZulu-Natal’s holiday destinations await.

KZN attractions and things to do on holiday

Witness KwaZulu-Natal’s unforgettable sardine run.
Enjoy music, sport and arts festivals.
Discover unlimited fun with water rides, an oceanarium and more at Ushaka Marine World.
Explore the Moses Mabhida Stadium on an exciting Segway Gliding tour.
Enjoy high tea at the legendary Oyster Box Hotel in Umhlanga.
Slide through the forest canopy on a Drakensberg Canopy Tour.
Enjoy tiger fishing in Lake Jozini.
Take a boat cruise on the St Lucia Estuary.
Go ziplining through the forest in the Midlands.
Spend the day learning about Zulu traditions at Zululand’s largest kraal, Shakaland.
Enjoy game viewing in Africa’s oldest game reserve, the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park.
Sample an iconic bunny chow meal in Durban.
Go horse riding and enjoy a picnic on the Midlands Meander.
Ride a rickshaw on Durban’s famous Golden Mile.

That’s just a small taste of what’s in store on holiday in KwaZulu-Natal. When you explore the North and South coasts, you’ll find even more delights waiting to be discovered. Experience the best of KwaZulu-Natal with a holiday package from Thompsons Holidays. Browse our best deals now.

Know before you go...

When is the best time to visit?

KwaZulu-Natal is a year-round destination, with a tropical climate along the coast and a temperate climate inland. However, the highlands of the province can be very cold in the winter.
The best time to visit KZN for game viewing is in the dry winter months (from April to September).
Birdwatching is best in the summer rainy season (November to March).
Summer is also peak season, with thousands of visitors enjoying the facilities along the South and North Coasts.

Getting there & getting around

KwaZulu-Natal is serviced by one main airport in Durban. Flight duration from Johannesburg to Durban: 1 hour, 5 minutes.
From Cape Town: 2 hours, 5 minutes.
Driving time from Johannesburg to Durban: approximately 7 hours.

What can I do to be a responsible traveller?

Wherever possible, buy local food and souvenirs and support local artisans.
Be mindful of the environment and avoid single-use plastic.
Respect each other's cultures and customs.

Safety tips

Be safety conscious, especially in the larger cities.
Don’t display cash or valuables.
Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.

What to pack?

With the high humidity; loose, breathable clothing is advised.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
You're going to want to swim; bring along your swimming gear.
Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses are a must.

What do I do in an emergency?

Contact the Thompsons Holidays 24-hour care line to assist in any travel related emergency.

Downloads

Kwazulu Natal, South Africa - Sightseeing [3.3 MB]

Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens, KwaZulu Natal - Hotel Fact Sheet [377 KB]

The Oyster Box, KwaZulu Natal - Hotel Fact Sheet [368 KB]

Canelands Beach Club & Spa, KwaZulul Natal - Hotel Fact Sheet [319 KB]

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Why travel to Kwazulu-Natal?

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