World-class national parks
KwaZulu-Natal is home to a number of world-class national parks. On the southern border with Swaziland is the Pongola private reserve. During safaris in this game-rich park you will have beautiful views of the Lemombo Mountains and Lake Jozini. Mkuze Game Reserve lies in the foothills of the Lembo Mountains and is dominated by the Shembe and Mahlangosi mountains. The park is not yet well known to the general public and you can observe wildlife here in peace and quiet. Quite unique is the large population of white and black rhinos. The "wetlands" in the park make this a true paradise for bird lovers. Further south lies the vast Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Reserve, one of the oldest parks in Africa. The landscape variety is great; open grasslands, dense slopes and rivers alternate. The hills offer beautiful vistas and make it easy to observe the great wealth of game. On the border with Mozambique you will find the extraordinary and bird-rich Ndumo Game Reserve. The park is distinguished from the other parks by its special flora and wide variety of birds. Part of the park consists of water, the Banzi Pan, with large fever trees on the edge. Babanango Game Reserve was created in recent years. A comprehensive project allowed for the reintroduction of many species, including the full Big Five. An impressive achievement in an environment where sustainability and cooperation with local people are paramount.
Zululand Battlefields
The Battlefield route leads past historic sites where battles took place. Fierce battles between the rebellious Boers, British settlers and intrepid Zulu are etched in South Africa's collective memory. Follow this route and you will learn about this history as well as the fascinating culture of the Zulu.
Elongated beaches and coral reefs
The coast of Kwazulu-Natal and Maputaland offers you diverse nature, not only above, but also underwater. You will find elongated beaches and coral reefs. The charming village St. Lucia is located in iSimangaliso Wetland Park, which is sandwiched between the river and the ocean. Observe hippos, crocodiles, flamingos and pelicans here. On the coast at Sodwana Bay , avid divers can indulge themselves. The underwater world with dolphins and giant turtles are a true mecca for enthusiasts. Rocktail Bay is a nature reserve on the Indian Ocean, located on a long private beach. Off the coast you can do fantastic diving and snorkeling and the beach serves as a nesting ground for the giant Leatherback turtle. See also Diving Paradise South Africa and Beach Stay South Africa
