kzn tourism office

KwaZulu-Natal Tourism Authority

Website https://zulu.org.za/ Email [email protected] Facebook https://www.facebook.com/KZNTourism Twitter https://twitter.com/TourismKZN Postal Address PO Box 2516, DURBAN, 4000 Street Address Ithala Trade Centre, 29 Canal Quay Road, Point, DURBAN 4001 Phone 031 366 7500 Directories Regional Tourism Authorities

Chief Executive Officer: Phindile Makwakwa (Acting) , Ms

• PO Box 2516, DURBAN, 4000
• 031 366 7500

Cookie policy

Wanderlust Movement | A South Africa Travel Blog

24+ Incredibly EPIC Things to Do in KZN, South Africa

April 15, 2021 by Lauren Melnick

Last Updated on March 5, 2024 by Lauren Melnick

This KZN guide was created in collaboration with South Africa Tourism. I hope you enjoy this roundup of some of the best things to do in KwaZulu Natal!

Like its rolling hills, towering mountains, and spectacular coastline, KZN is a province with endless layers.

While Durban usually steals the spotlight, it’s one of the least interesting parts of KZN.

Beyond the borders of Durban is where you’ll find the heart of KwaZulu Natal. The foothills are home to historical battles, while the coastline boasts some of the best scuba diving and whale watching in the country.

Further inland, you can explore Zululand and experience some of the most beautiful and unique vistas of South Africa.

The best part, though?

There is an entire food, craft beer, and gin scene brewing in the background.

I’ve explored different parts of KZN throughout the years, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned about the province, it’s that it is the epitome of “choose your own adventure”.

No matter what your travelling style, whether you’re a foodie, culture lover, history buff, or adrenaline junkie, there is something for you!

So without further adieu, here are some of the best things to do in KZN!

Psst…Want more KZN travel inspiration? Check out these other posts:

• The Ultimate iSimangaliso Wetland Park Travel Guide
• The Best Drakensberg Hikes That’ll Take Your Breath Away
• Babanango Game Reserve: Where Conservation & Community Meet
• Hiking the Mnweni Circuit: A Spectacular 3-Day Drakensberg Hike
• The Perfect Itinerary for an Epic South Africa Road Trip
• The Best Game Reserves in KZN for an Unforgettable Safari Experience

Table of Contents

Book a Sunset Game Drive Through iSimangaliso Wetlands Park

Dive with sea turtles at sodwana bay, camp on top of the highest waterfall in africa, drive to the top of sani pass, book a whale watching tour in st. lucia, feel the need for speed with a quad biking tour, hike into the drakensberg searching for ancient rock paintings, go on safari in south africa’s oldest game reserve, get a dose of adrenaline at oribi gorge, get your caffeine fix with a coffee tour at beaver creek estate in port edward, enjoy lunch with a view at blueberry cafe along the midlands meander, feast on all things nougat at wedgewood nougat, sip on a g&t or four at nottingham road brewery, taste zulu blonde beer in eshowe, visit the spion kop battlefield in the drakensberg, visit fort nongqayi for a dose of zulu history, stop by the valley of the kings in eshowe, visit the nelson mandela capture site, go on a zulu village walking tour in the drakensberg, get high at the dlinza forest aerial walkway in eshowe, explore the smallest desert in the world in port edward, spot the mysterious serpent beast of howick falls, go on a budget adventure at ngodini bunduz, where to stay in kzn, adventurous things to do in kzn.

Let’s start with my firm favourites. A visit to the province would be woefully incomplete without some of the top adventurous things to do in KZN on your itinerary.

“iSimangaliso? Don’t know her.”

If that thought went through your head after reading the title, I’m stoked to introduce you to one of South Africa’s gems. The wetlands park is our first UNESCO World Heritage Site and stretches from St. Lucia to the Mozambique border.

Over the last couple of decades, iSimangaliso has re-introduced naturally occurring wildlife to the area, making it a unique safari destination.

On the Eastern Shores, you’ll drive past herds of grazing buffalo, zebra, rhino, and elephants and stop for lunch on the beach at Mission Rocks.

On the Western Shores, you’ll find more wildlife like giraffe, duiker, nyala, wildebeest, and more!

Want to improve your chances of spotting game without the hassle of driving yourself? One of the best things to do in St. Lucia is a sunset game drive with Heritage Tours .

You’ll stop for sundowners at a scenic lookout point and get to drive back to your hotel at dusk when the nocturnal creatures start to stir.

Read More: The Ultimate Isimangaliso Wetland Park Travel Guide

Sodwana Bay is one of the top scuba diving destinations in South Africa and one of those places to go in KZN you need to visit at least once.

Time your trip up the north coast right, and you’ll be in time for the sea turtle nesting and hatching season.

Sign up for a midnight patrol with  Ufudu Tours , and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of an endangered loggerhead or leatherback laying her eggs!

P.S. November to March is the best time to catch a glimpse of the sea turtles.

Read More: The Ultimate South Africa Bucket List: 40+ Amazing Places to Visit

What’s better than hiking to the top of the highest waterfall in Africa? Camping.

Wake up to a spectacular sunrise over Tugela Falls (if you’re lucky, you might see a cloud inversion) and explore the plateau of the Amphitheatre to your heart’s content.

You can buy your camping permits from Witsiehoek Lodge , and while the hike is possible to complete in a day, turning it into a one-nighter is an excellent introduction to multi-day hikes in the Drakensberg .

P.S. I run a Tugela Falls Overnight Hike trip. You can sign up for the waiting list here .

Read More: Hiking Tugela Falls: Africa’s Highest Waterfall

Okay, so the end of Sani Pass isn’t technically in KZN, but the beginning of it is!

Sani Pass is a hair raising mountain pass with death-defying switchbacks that will take you into the Kingdom of Lesotho.

To conquer the pass, you’ll need a 4×4 and a passport. You won’t be allowed on the road without one, and if you do manage to sneak past, the chances of your car falling off the road is pretty high.

You’ll go through a border post at the bottom of the pass and again once you reach the top.

12/10 recommend staying at Sani Lodge Backpackers to watch the sunrise! You’ll get an epic birds-eye view over the spectacular Drakensberg mountains, and you can visit the highest pub in the world.

Did you know that St. Lucia is the best place in South Africa for whale watching?

Yup. It’s even better than Hermanus.

You’ll see higher numbers of whales here than further down the coast and a variety of species.

If you’re lucky, you might spot orcas, sperm, pilot, and humpbacks with their calves all in a single day!

I don’t have the greatest balance, which is why quad biking always makes me break out in a sweat.

While I might not be the fastest driver, I always end up enjoying the experience!

If you want to tackle some quad biking tracks, pull through to  High Stakes  in Cato Ridge. Your guide will take you on a trail to suit your level, and you can put the bikes to the test.

Other activities on the property include:

• Clay pigeon shooting

The Drakensberg is one of those bucket list destinations in South Africa you can keep visiting and always find something spectacular.

Whether you’re hiking the towering Mnweni Pass , summiting Mafadi (the highest peak in South Africa), or conquering day hikes, the views never disappoint.

But inside Giant’s Castle (one of the best places to visit in the Drakensberg), you can combine the mountain range’s meandering pathways with its rich history.

Book a rock painting tour, trek one hour into the wilderness, and you’ll soon find 6,000-year-old art from the Khoi San.

The paintings are beautifully preserved, and your guide will teach you the meanings behind each figure and its importance to the Khoi San.

For example, did you know only women could paint with yellow?!

Read More: The Best Drakensberg Hikes That’ll Take Your Breath Away

I went on my first Hluhluwe-Imfolozi safari in 2019, and boy, did I fall hard.

It’s the oldest national park in South Africa (only 1hr 15min from St. Lucia) and is famous for its widely successful rhino conversation project.

With its proximity to the coast, you get a lush tropical game drive. It’s a stark contrast to the scenery you’d find in Kruger National Park , making it a unique safari destination in Kwazulu-Natal.

Book a half-day or full-day game drive with  Heritage Tours & Safaris , or go on a self-drive.

Read More: The Best Game Reserves in KZN for an Unforgettable Safari Experience

Fun fact:  Greg and I had part of our first date at Oribi Gorge.

We went on a week-long road trip together, and our first stop was going on a game drive through Lake Eland and ziplining past herds of giraffe.

Other adrenaline-inducing activities include:

• The Gorge Swing:  You’ll leap off Lehr’s Waterfall in Oribi Gorge. It’s the highest swing of its kind in the world.
• Abseil:  Go down a 110m cliff face alongside Lehr’s waterfall.
• The Suspension Bridge:  Walk along the 84-metre bridge, suspended 100 meters above the Gorge floor.
• Water Rafting:  Choose from a day trip or opt-in for a two-day water rafting experience.

All these activities are available through  Wild 5 Adventures !

Things To Do In KZN For Foodies And Coffee Lovers

Alright, let’s move onto KZN activities for foodies. 

Here’s what to do in KZN if your number one travel priority is stuffing your face and sipping your way through a destination.

Ever wondered what goes into making the perfect cup of joe? Then pull through to Beaver Creek Estate , the southern-most coffee estate in the world and book a coffee tasting tour.

Led by Jeff Stopforth, the current South African latte art champion, you’ll learn how the beans of a tiny red fruit turn into a delicious cup of coffee.

From growing the plants to harvesting and brewing a bean from decaf to a dark roast.

At the end of the tour, you can indulge in a bottomless coffee tasting of locally grown, signature, and single-origin blends.

P.S. Ask for the sea horse latte art!

The Midland Meander is a foodie paradise. You could plan your whole trip around eating your way through the famous Nottingham Road, and your taste buds will never get bored.

The creme-de-la-creme of the foodie scene?  Blueberry Cafe  on Netherwood Farm.

It’s one of the best things to do in the Midlands!

The property has a beautiful backdrop of the Drakensburg mountains.

Especially the bathroom, seriously, it gets a 12/10 for the loo with the ultimate view!

Not only is the food delicious, but you can also feast your eyes on all the trinkets for sale and the decor. There is something to ogle at no matter where you sit.

Oh, and did I mention there are alpacas!?

While artisanal delights are the name of the game along Nottingham Road, the foodie paradise has a worthy contender yapping at its heels – Howick.

Located on Birnamwood Road,  Wedgewood Nougat  is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Indulge in nougat ice cream, biscuits, and stock up on a wide range of mouth-watering flavours such as:

• Mint and dark chocolate
• Almond and milk chocolate
• Cranberry and almond 

To me, there’s no better way to explore the Midlands Meander than with a belly full of delicious food and a boozy drink in hand.

The Nottingham Road Brewery offers another one of my favourite things – gin tastings .

For RX, you get to sample 4 different gin flavours:

• Standard gin and tonic with a slice of cucumber

For beer drinkers, you can opt-in for a tasting of their craft brews as well.

If you’re from the UK and a frequent patron of pubs, you’ve probably heard of Zulu Blonde Beer.

Since launching in 2010, the brew is stocked in more than 800 pubs in the United Kingdom!

The brewery is also the smallest on the KZN Brew Route and deserves a spot on any beer lovers KZN itinerary.

Fun Things To Do In KZN For History & Culture Lovers

Want to brush up on your KZN history and learn about Zulu culture? I have some bad news, KZN might have too much to offer to visit in a single visit.

But if you’re up for the challenge, here’s what to do in KZN for history and cultural goodness.

What do Gandhi, Winston Churchhill, and Louis Botha all have in common?

All three of these important historical figures were at the  battle of Spion Kop  in 1899.

Imagine if something had happened and one of them perished? Imagine how that would have altered the history of not only South Africa but the world.

Your guide, Raymond (who owns Spion Kop Lodge ), will take you on an insightful tour, re-telling all the astonishing events leading up to the British going to war with South Africa.

As you learn about the war’s historical significance, you’ll explore the battlefield and see the memorials honouring the fallen soldiers buried in unmarked graves.

For history nerds like myself, you can’t go wrong with a visit to  Fort Nongqayi .

Built in 1883, the fort was never completed because the powers that be ran out of money.

Hey, at least it shows governments have never been good at managing money, even in the 1800s.

Inside the fort, you’ll find the History of Zululand museum, a must-visit cultural attraction in KZN. Your guide will take you through each exhibit, teaching you about the important events and people who altered the course of history.

The thing which blew my socks AND shoes off?

There was a white Zulu chief! John Robert Dunn had 42 wives, over 100 children, and some of his descendants still live in the area. 

The Spirit of eMakhosini is a memorial to the seven fallen Zulu kings buried in the valley below.

A giant traditional Zulu beer pot marks the spot, and a diorama shows the kings’ burial sites.

While you’re there, you can visit Mgungundlov, the Royal Residence of King Dingane (the half-brother who murdered King Shaka) and kwaMatiwane, where Piet Retief and his men were killed and buried.

Of course, this is only touching the surface of the  KZN battlefields route . Some of the other notable sites include:

• Gqokli Hill
• Hlobane and Devil’s Pass
• Rorke’s Drift
• Blood River

It’s time to brush up on your South Africa history, kids!

The Nelson Mandela Capture Site is an important place to visit in KZN for locals and tourists alike.

Our first democratically elected president was driving along the road on 5 August 1962, pretending to be a chauffeur for Cecil Williams. The Apartheid police were tipped off Mandela (who had evaded capture for 17 months) would be passing through and arrested him.

Today, there is a visitor centre and a shape-shifting sculpture to mark the site of his arrest. The museum is beautifully curated and tells the story of Mandela’s life and his 27-years in prison.

Tickets start at R100 for adults.

I’m not a fan of village walking tours, but Elijah from Siyaphambili Tours changed my mind!

In 2-hours I learnt so much about Zulu history and culture, and got to see how a grassroots initiative like this can have such a powerful impact on the local community.

Elijah uses funds from his tours to help with various projects. For example, he has helped build two classrooms made from recycled materials and you can see how passionate he is about his home and work.

Part of the village walk includes a stop at the Sangoma. We learnt all about the different types of Sangomas, how the calling works, and how to spot a fake one.

Off-The-Beat, Quirky And Alternative Things To Do In KZN

While sightseeing in the province is more often than not restricted to the main attractions in KwaZulu Natal like Durban, there is a bucketload of offbeat things to do in KwaZulu Natal that most locals and tourists don’t take advantage of.

Wondering what to do in KZN, that’s a bit more off the beaten track? Add these things to your list!

Eshowe is a beautiful place to visit in KZN, and the Dlinza Forest gives you a chance to explore its beauty at dizzying heights.

…And you’ll get a history lesson along the way…

As you walk along the aerial walkway, your guide will tell you how the famous Shaka Zulu used the forest to hide women and children in times of war. 

The forest is also the final resting place of another Zulu king, and there are various walking trails on the forest floor for your frolicking pleasure.

If you’re looking for lesser-known attractions in KZN to visit, be sure to give Dlinza Forest a try!

Looking for things to do in Port Edward?

The Red Desert is the town’s unusual claim to fame.

Located along the South Coast, you’ll find the world’s smallest desert 10-minutes inland.

The red soil (only 200 meters in diameter and a total of 11 hectares) looks like a mini Arizona Desert. Legend has it it’s the site of an alien landing, but the truth is way less exciting.

Due to overgrazing by some stolen cattle and the wind, the terrain became eroded and led to the area’s desertification.

The entrance fee is R30, and you can buy a ticket by scanning the QR code next to the gate on arrival.

Love your local folklore? Then Howick Falls is right up your alley.

The Zulu people named the 300 feet waterfall,  KwaNogqaza,  which means the “Place of the Tall One”. According to legend, a beast with a serpent’s body and a horse-sized head lurks in the falls’ basin.

While there is a viewing platform for the falls if you want to go monster hunting, opt for the Howick Falls Gorge Walk. It’s an easy hike that will take a little over an hour to get to the bottom. 

Read More: 15+ Wonderous Waterfalls In South Africa That Will Make Your Jaw Drop 

Ngodini Bunduz is a 40-minute drive from Eshowe and isn’t the kind of place you would find in a stock-standard South Africa Lonely Planet guide.

It’s an adventure and games campsite offering everything from outdoor massages, paintball, river tubing, quad biking, and more!

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you can chow on a delicious nyama choma (the chakalaka here is perfection!) and have a few shots at the on-site bar.

Psst…If you’re looking for more of a party vibe, visit the Bunduz on the weekend!

Here are some of my favourite places to stay in KwaZulu-Natal.

Fordoun Hotel and Spa in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands:   Fordoun is an award-winning 5-star luxury boutique hotel. Expect a delicious menu (vegan options aplenty!), luxurious suites, room service, a spa with saunas, a weightless pool, and all the treatments your heart desires.

Bababnango Valley Lodge in Eshowe:  Tucked away in the foothills of Eshowe, Babanango Valley Lodge is a luxury safari lodge in the heart of Zululand. It’s an incredible place in KZN to spend a night or three. The lodge is a community project and is in the process of becoming a Big 5 game reserve.

Read More: Babanango Game Reserve: Where Conservation & Community Meet

Mantis and Moon Backpackers in Umzumbe:  Stay in a 360-degree glass treehouse with nothing but the lush South Coast forest surrounding your chalet. At Mantis and Moon you’ll fall asleep to the sound of the ocean and be a short walk from one of the best Blue Flag beaches in South Africa .

Read More: 10 Of The Best Backpackers In South Africa

Giant’s Castle in the Drakensberg:  Giant’s Castle Reserve is home to no cellphone or WiFi signal. While you can’t check your emails, you can wake up to the spectacular Drakensberg mountain range and explore the numerous day hikes crisscrossing the reserve.

Spion Kop Lodge in the Drakensberg:  For history buffs, you don’t want to miss out on staying at Spion Kop Lodge . It’s the best place to base yourself to explore the battlefield of Spion Kop and other important historical areas. And it doesn’t hurt the food here is scrumptious!

What are some of your favourite places to visit in KZN? Did I leave out any good ones? Hit ya gurl up in the comments below!

If you like it, then you should put a pin on it! 

About Lauren Melnick

Lauren Melnick is the founder of Wanderlust Movement, Wander to Here and is a South Africa travel blogger. She's been travelling the world as a full-time freelance writer since 2016 and has visited over 40 countries.

When she isn't typing up a storm, you can find her conquering overnight hikes around the Western Cape, rock climbing, and hosting sold out group travel trips around South Africa, Namibia and Morocco.

Reader Interactions

July 31, 2021 at 10:33 am

The eats looks yummy. 😋 Wedgewood Nougat and Road Brewery have sparked my Appétit. Feel like eating.

August 2, 2021 at 3:10 pm

The nougat is a 12/10!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Love The Content?

14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in KwaZulu-Natal

Written by Karen Hastings and Carri Wilbanks Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Dramatically beautiful and surprisingly diverse, KwaZulu-Natal, in the country's northeast, packs in many of South Africa's most popular attractions, despite its small size. Here, visitors can enjoy the World Heritage-listed Drakensberg mountains , with their jagged-backed peaks and spectacular scenery; Durban's golden beaches and surf breaks; a thriving Zulu culture ; and exhilarating wildlife adventures.

KwaZulu-Natal is also home to Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park , the oldest game park in Africa, as well as pampering private game reserves, where lucky visitors might spot the Big Five (leopard, lion, elephant, buffalo, and rhino). Along the coast, nature lovers can explore the stunning scenery of iSimangaliso Wetland Park , another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and dive the coral reefs of Sodwana Bay .

Find out why this is the province where South Africans love to play, with our list of the top attractions in KwaZulu-Natal.

1. The Drakensberg

2. hluhluwe-imfolozi park, 3. isimangaliso wetland park, 4. sodwana bay national park, 5. kwa cheetah breeding project, 6. nambiti private game reserve, 7. sani pass, 8. durban's golden mile, 9. the kwazulu-natal battlefields route, 10. tatham art gallery, pietermaritzburg, 11. oribi gorge nature reserve, 12. nelson mandela capture site, 13. valley of 1000 hills region, 14. midlands meander, map of tourist attractions in kwazulu-natal.

The Drakensberg, from an Afrikaans word meaning "Dragon Mountains," is a place of breathtaking beauty and one of the most popular destinations in the country. Jagged-backed peaks rise above dense forests and deep valleys, and cascades feed clear mountain streams. This spectacular region includes uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site with soaring basalt peaks that are some of the highest in the country and San (Bushmen) rock paintings, as well as Royal Natal National Park with the Amphitheatre , a five-kilometer-long rock wall with one of the world's highest waterfalls tumbling from above.

The 3,282-meter-high Mont-aux-Sources rises beyond, and is the source for some of the nation's mighty rivers. Nearby, visitors can see herds of eland, bearded vultures, and superb Bushman rock paintings in Giant's Castle Game Reserve.

Another highlight of the region is Cathedral Peak with some of the region's most beautiful mountain scenery. This area is also home to the venerable Cathedral Peak Hotel , which has been pampering guests since 1939. Outdoor enthusiasts come to these velvety green mountains to fly-fish for trout, hike and bike the wilderness trails, rock climb, abseil, and raft the mountain rivers. To best appreciate the dramatic landscapes, visitors can soar over the area in a hot air balloon.

Established in 1895, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (formerly Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve) is the oldest game park in Africa and one of only a few parks in KwaZulu-Natal where visitors can see the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. Including the wildlife corridor connecting the two sections of the park, it covers more than 96,000 hectares and is famous for its rhino conservation efforts–both black and white rhino are found here. The park lies deep in Zululand and was once the royal hunting grounds of King Shaka.

Today, the park offers a rewarding safari experience with an impressive diversity of flora and fauna and typically less crowds than Kruger National Park . The Hluhluwe section in the park's north is mountainous, while the iMfolozi section reveals sprawling savannah with taller trees along the riverbanks.

In addition to the Big Five, wild dog, cheetah, zebra, blue wildebeest, hippo, hyena, and more than 300 species of birds are among the animals that make their home here. The best game viewing is in the cooler and drier months from May through October, however the summer brings lush growth and newborn animals. Guests can opt to stay within the park in modest chalets, safari tents, and a range of lodges. More lodging options are available just outside the park.

About 250 kilometers from Durban, World Heritage-listed iSimangaliso Wetland Park (formerly the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park) protects the largest estuarine system in Africa. iSimangaliso means "miracle and wonder" in Zulu, and the name is fitting for this beautiful biodiverse park. The eight interconnected ecosystems here include coral reefs, croc-filled rivers, lakes, swamplands, savanna, and coastal dunes.

Thanks to this diversity of habitats, wildlife is abundant and varied. All in one day, visitors can snorkel, dive, or kayak along coral reefs, where leatherback and loggerhead turtles swim; spot an incredible array of birds; and see leopard, buffalo, zebra, and rhino on a game drive. The park is also home to the highest concentration of crocodiles and hippos in Africa.

Also in the park, secluded Kosi Bay offers empty seascapes of sun-bleached shores and shimmering lagoons. The area is also known for its traditional fishing techniques–fish are trapped here in woven baskets.

On the Elephant Coast, Sodwana Bay National Park is one of South Africa's best diving destinations . Part of iSimangaliso Wetland Park , the reserve lies on the shores of the Indian Ocean with South Africa's southernmost coral reefs shimmering just offshore with schools of colorful fish. Divers can see caves, pinnacles, and both hard and soft corals, as well as an incredible array of aquatic life, including lionfish, crayfish, moray eels, rays, and many species of sharks.

Whale sharks also swim these waters. Loggerhead and leatherback turtles nest on the beaches here, and nature lovers can join turtle tours to see them in season. Apart from SCUBA diving and snorkeling, other popular things to do here include sports fishing for marlin and sailfish, horseback riding on the beach, and hiking the coastal nature trails.

At the Kwa Cheetah Breeding Project, inside the gates of Nambiti Private Game Reserve , animal lovers can enjoy exhilarating hands-on interactions with these graceful creatures and help out a worthwhile cause at the same time. The experience begins with an educational presentation about the plight of the cheetah. Visitors are then able to pat the animals, take photos with them, and watch a demonstration of their incredible speed.

Depending on the residents at the time, visitors may also see other cats such as servals, caracals, and African wildcats. The successful captive breeding program here seeks to increase the cheetahs' gene pool and prepare the animals for a life in the wild. The project only runs one tour a day to protect the animals from excessive stress, so advance bookings are highly recommended.

Address: Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal

Official site: http://www.cheetahinteraction.com/

About a three-hour drive from Durban , near the spectacular Drakensberg mountains , Nambiti Private Game Reserve offers exciting guided safari adventures in search of the Big Five: leopard, lion, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. Scenery here ranges from sprawling savannah and grasslands, with unimpeded views of game, to lush riverine bush, and the wildlife is plentiful. In addition to the Big Five, the reserve protects more than 40 different species of game such as cheetah, zebra, kudu, and hippo, as well as a diverse array of birdlife.

Day visitors are welcome, and those who wish to stay overnight can choose from six self-catering or full-board five-star lodges, some with swimming pools, as well as a raised luxury tented camp. This popular private game reserve also lies near the KwaZulu Battlefields , so visitors can combine a guided historical tour with their wilderness experience.

Official site: http://www.nambiti.com

Sani Pass is one of South Africa's most spectacular mountain roads. Connecting Kwazulu-Natal with the Kingdom of Lesotho, the pass is an eight-kilometer-long unpaved road that climbs to heights of up to 2,876 meters. The road runs through the Mzimkulwana Nature Reserve, with scenery ranging from towering rock outcrops and green-cloaked mountains to dizzyingly steep ravines.

Only vehicles with four-wheel drive are allowed on the road between the two frontier posts; on foot it takes between two and three hours. To the north of the pass is 3,482-meter-high Mount Thabana Ntlenyana , the highest peak in southern Africa. The pass takes its name from the San (Bushmen), who fled over here to escape from their white and black persecutors.

Check weather conditions before setting out, as snow and ice can make the pass even more challenging.

Durban, South Africa's third largest city, is a multicultural melting pot. A great way to get a feel for this salt-tinged port city is to take a stroll along Durban's Golden Mile, a busy beachfront promenade connecting some of the city's top things to do . Entertainment venues, high-rise hotels, shops, and restaurants line this sun-splashed strip, and the golden beaches here lure surfers, swimmers, and sun bathers.

Segway tours offer a speedy way to zip between the attractions here, which include Moses Mabhida Stadium ; uShaka Marine World ; and Mini Town , a tiny replica of Durban complete with a miniature airport, rail network, and harbor scene. Lifeguards patrol the beaches year-round.

During the 19th century, central Zululand, now part of KwaZulu-Natal, was the site of many historic battles between the Zulus, Boers, and British. Today, sightseers can explore this rich history on the Battlefields Route. Knowledgeable guides take visitors to see battle sites, museums, memorials, and forts and share fascinating details and descriptions of these historic events.

Two of the most famous battlefields lie a short drive from each other: At Isandlwana, visitors will learn about the clash between 22,000 Zulu warriors who prevailed against 1,350 British troops in one of the first battles of the Anglo-Zulu War. About 16 kilometers from here, Rorke's Drift is the site where British troops defended a mission station from the attack of more than 3,000 Zulu warriors.

Vryheid is the largest town on the Northern Natal Battlefields Route, and takes in the scene of clashes between British forces and Zulus and between British forces and the Boers. Blood River Heritage Site is another popular Zulu-Voortrekker battle site near the town of Dundee . After the annexation of Zululand and its incorporation in the province of Natal, the British authorities built a number of forts in the region, including Fort Nongqai in Eshowe.

Ideally, sightseers should try to focus on a particular era or region of the battlefields route as the sites are numerous. Many guides offer pickup points in cities such as Durban or Johannesburg .

In KwaZulu-Natal's friendly capital, Pietermaritzburg, the Tatham Art Gallery is a must-see for art lovers. The gallery lies opposite the City Hall in a building once occupied by the Supreme Court and exhibits an impressive collection of both European and South African art with a focus on art from KwaZulu-Natal. The gallery has a remarkable collection of work by 19th- and 20th-century European artists, including pictures by Sisley and Sickert and drawings by Picasso, Braque, Chagall, and Moore. Temporary exhibitions add to the eclectic works here and support many local artists.

Other popular tourist attractions in the capital are the African Bird of Prey Sanctuary , Butterflies for Africa , the Voortrekker Museum , and the KwaZulu-Natal National Botanic Garden with many rare and endangered plant species.

Address: Box 321, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal

Official site: http://www.tatham.org.za

This stunning canyon is in the southern portion of KwaZulu Natal, about 120 kilometers south of Durban and 25 kilometers from the holiday destination of Port Shepstone , which is known for its great surfing and swimming beaches and lots of sunshine.

The Oribi Gorge is 24 kilometers long and 165 meters deep and dominated by sandstone cliffs and ravines that were cut by the sometimes wild Umzimkulwana River flowing through it. The reserve is a bird-watcher's paradise, with more than 250 species of birds identified here, including five types of kingfisher and seven different eagles. There are also leopards, baboons, and small antelopes in the vicinity.

The gorge can be visited on a day trip or overnight, as there is lodging in the reserve. Things to do here include multiple hiking trails, as well as ziplining and whitewater rafting. And then there is the adrenalin pumping Wild Swing over the gorge itself that will really test your fear factor. This is the highest swing in the world, and you can reach speeds of up to 120 kilometers per hour. To partake, you are secured by a full body harness before leaping off the top of a waterfall and swinging back and forth across the 165-meter-deep gorge.

The Nelson Mandela Capture Site marks the spot where Mandela was arrested on August 5, 1962. Although not his first arrest, this one led to his incarceration for the next 27 years. The site consists of a visitor center and an impressive sculpture that was erected at the spot near the town of Howick in 2012, which was the 50th anniversary of Mandela's arrest.

The 3D-style sculpture is the creation of artist Marco Cianfanelli and is made up of 50 steel poles between five and nine meters tall. They have been arranged in the ground to recreate an image of Mandela's face when seen from a certain distance. Up close, the image disappears, and you just see steel beams planted in the landscape, which is part of the artist's concept. There is also a visitor's center museum at the site and some stalls selling colorful handicrafts.

The Capture Site is located just outside of Howick off the N3 highway that runs from Durban to Johannesburg. Take the Tweedie turnoff to Lions River and make a right onto the R103. From here, follow the signs.

Address: Mandela Capture Site, R103, Howick, 3290

Official site: https://www.thecapturesite.co.za/

Between Durban and Pietermaritzburg is the Valley of 1000 Hills region. The lush valley is filled with rolling green hills set against a deep blue African sky. It is also where the Umgeni and Msunduzi rivers meet, and there are opportunities for plenty of outdoor activities.

Whether you just want to go on a gentle walk or a more strenuous hike or bike ride, there are trails throughout the valley. If you want a more cultural experience, pay a visit to one of the local villages that offer tours to visitors. You can witness a dance performance, eat a traditional South African meal, or even visit with a medicine man.

Head north from Pietermaritzburg to the Midlands Meander route. Running for about 80 kilometers in length from Rietvlei in the east to Nottingham Road in the west, this route is best known for its arts and crafts scene.

What began in 1985 with six studios showcasing local weaving, pottery, and painting has grown into a proper arts and crafts trail through numerous picturesque villages with more than 160 places to shop, eat, sleep, and play.

From woodcrafters to leatherworkers, cheese makers to metalworkers, there is so much to experience on this route. Looking for more active adventures? Hiking, mountain biking, birding, and horseback riding are just some of the other things to do.

The route is also scenically beautiful, with the Drakensberg Mountains looming in the background and a green and gold landscape at your feet.

Official site: https://midlandsmeander.co.za/

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Johannesburg: Jo'burg is South Africa's version of New York City. It's the country's financial hub and also a Mecca for fashion, art, and culture. From the vibrant street art of the Maboneng Precinct to the important history lesson at the Apartheid Museum , our list of Top-Rated Attractions in Johannesburg delivers the scoop on exploring this fascinating and diverse city with so many great things to do. It is also home to excellent restaurants and hotels for all budgets and styles of travelers, from couples to families.

Swaziland: Check another country off your list with a visit to the Kingdom of Swaziland. KwaZulu-Natal borders this landlocked country surrounded by South Africa and Mozambique. There are plenty of things to see and do in this mountainous kingdom, and our Top Rated Tourist Attractions in Swaziland article will let you in on it all. From hiking past waterfalls to game drives in national parks, Swaziland has much to keep you busy.

More on South Africa

• Geographical Location & Climate
• History of Durban
• Travel Information
• Adventure & Wildlife
• Culture & Heritage
• Food & Lifestyle
• Hotel & Conference Venues
• Museums & Parks
• 1000 Hills Tourism CTO
• Clermont KwaDabeka Tourism CTO
• Durban Central CTO
• Durban West Tourism
• Sapphire Coast Tourism
• Sodurba CTO
• Umhlanga Tourism CTO
• Umlazi Township Tourism CTO
• Beach Status
• Latest News
• Brochures & Maps
• Corporate Documents
• Clermont Township Tours
• Durban City Walking Tours
• Inanda & KwaMashu Township Tour
• Rickshaw Rides
• Riksha Bus City Tour
• Umlazi Township Tour
• Valley of 1000 Hills Tour

Our Offices

Durban tourism head office.

• 90 Florida Rd, Windermere, Durban, 4091
• (+27) 031 322 4164
• [email protected]

North Beach Tourism Services

• Marine Parade, North Beach, Durban, 4001
• (+27) 031 322 4172
• [email protected]

Sapphire Coast Tourism Services

• 95 Beach Rd, Amanzimtoti, 4126
• (+27) 031 322 2852
• [email protected]

1000 Hills Tourism Services

• 47 Old Main Road, Botha's Hill, 3610
• (+27) 031 322 2854
• [email protected]

Ushaka Marine Tourism Services

• 1 King Shaka Ave, Point, Durban, 4001
• (+27) 031 322 2858

Ghandi Settle Tourism Services - Inanda

• 120518 St, Bhambayi, Inanda, 4309
• (+27) 031 322 2856
• [email protected]

Ohlange Tourism Services - Inanda

• 6 108818 St, Langalibalele, Inanda, 4310
• (+27) 031 322 2857

King Shaka International Airport Tourism Service

• King Shaka Dr, La Mercy, 4407
• (+27) 031 322 6046

Gateway Information Office

• 1 Palm Blvd, Umhlanga Ridge, Umhlanga, 4319
• (+27) 031 322 5714

Get in Touch

Please send us any queries or questions you may have and we will repond swifly.

• LIFE & STYLE

INTRODUCING TOURISM KZN’S NEW ACTING CEO

TKZN’s newly appoined head shares his thoughts about a whole new approach to tourism in the province

It is time to approach tourism differently in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), to begin a new chapter that will not only foster development but see the province’s many diverse cultures speaking with one voice, says newly appointed Acting Chief Executive of Tourism KwaZulu-Natal (TKZN), Mr Sibusiso Gumbi. 

Having hit the ground running ahead of the busiest period on the KZN tourism calendar, Mr Gumbi says he is confident that all plans are in place for a smooth transition into the busy summer festive season.

He sees his role as a strategic one that will unite everyone from the province’s unemployed youth, to its leaders and even captains of industry.  “I strongly believe that tourism is at the centre of the economy, of infrastructure development, improving our beaches and our heritage sites. If we can concentrate on these, we will be able to turn things around. KZN has massive tourism potential, yet we seem to be dealing with a lot of negativity. It is time for a new narrative and for us all to join together to be ambassadors for tourism,” he says.

After 28 years in the public sector, Mr Gumbi is confident that the province has the right ideas when it comes to infrastructure, economic development and growth. But the time for interpretation of ideas has passed and the time for implementation has arrived, he believes.

Born and bred in KZN, Mr Gumbi is a family man who says he has a spiritual connection with the beautiful landscape and the mountains of KZN, especially when it comes to the district of uMkhanyakude, the northernmost of the 11 districts in KZN and home to some of its most beautiful tourism spots, including the Isimangaliso Wetland Park, the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi, Ndumu and Mkhuze game reserves, Sodwana Bay, Kosi Bay and Lake Jozini.

His family is part of the Gumbi tribe. Dispossessed of their land during the 1880s, the Gumbis finally had their land returned to them more than 100 years later. It is here that the highly successful community owned Thembe Elephant Park has been established.

It comes as no surprise, then, that Mr Gumbi believes that we have completely underestimated just what can be achieved via tourism in this province.

He grew up in and matriculated in Tongaat and went on to complete both his degree and Honours at the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Westville campus before starting work with the provincial Department of Transport in 1996. He was tasked with dealing with one of the biggest challenges of the time – the restructuring of the province’s taxi industry.

“The message was that, despite the many killings in the industry at the time, it remained the backbone of the province’s economy. We had to deal with those issues, restore order and formalize it,” he recalls.

He went on to specialize in policy formulation and integrated planning related to public transport and infrastructure before moving on to the Rand Afrikaans University (RAU) to study transport management. On his return to KZN, Mr Gumbi played a strategic role in the realignment and the integration of public transport, 

administering the subsidisation of buses. In 2012, he was appointed the Department of Transport’s Head of Department, a role that spanned everything from road safety to rail and freight and equipped him for his role as TKZN’s ACEO.

Mr Gumbi points out that tourism and transport are closely entwined. “In every aspect of tourism, you will find an element of transport. To attract travellers to a province, you need to have effective and good road infrastructure. Points of attraction need to be accessible. To achieve that, you have to work hand in hand with the Department of Transport so that, in their development plans, they prioritise roads that are leading to attractions,” he explains.

In 2019, he exited that department to take as HOD for the Department of Community Safety, another role that he feels will be invaluable when it comes to tourism.  Concerns around safety are a major hindrance when trying to attract tourists to KZN and he believes his ability to interact with law enforcement agencies will help achieve quick turnarounds.

From there, Mr Gumbi moved to the Premiers office where the insights into infrastructure challenges that he gained have equipped him for the many infrastructure related challenges that are impacting on the tourism sector at present.

Asked to describe his leadership style, Mr Gumbi says he is sober-minded, calm and fair, a man who believes in leading by example and plays a role much like that of a choir master in encouraging the team at TKZN to fulfil their mandate and achieve its full potential. 

Starting out, he says he is doing a lot of listening and looks forward to steering policy implementation, staff development and adherence to good governance within the organisation.

Beyond that, he says the bigger picture is seeing how tourism can play an important role in job creation, economic recovery and transformation. 

“I’m very open minded about the critical role that tourism has to play in the socio-economic sphere. As a community, KZN needs to understand itself first. Without that, how do you move on and attract others from other provinces and sell the province abroad as well? That’s why I am saying that we need to start internally. Let everyone understand the importance of KZN from a cultural perspective, as a province that is the seat of the Zulu monarchy, as one which has both the beaches and the mountains and is home to the big five.”

On the ground, he says transformation has been slow because there has been little support and capacitation for locals to run successful businesses.

“Transformation is just a concept. What we need to do is to build a base of knowledge so that everyone can play a role in the tourism industry. We need to capacitate, educate and support people. We need to put in place principled and professional implementers and then we will see things change,” he concludes.

• 0 Pinterest
• 0 Facebook-messenger

Share This:

Shirley: 083 301 2809 Cindy: 082 4941220

[email protected]

Out & About is a celebration of all things home grown – from our beautiful people and places to local entrepreneurs and their businesses and even delicious food. We tell the stories of those that motivate and inspire us, explore the venues that excite us and photograph the beauty that surrounds us!

Join our journey.

Browse CATEGORIES

• Key Sectors
• Agriculture
• Business Services
• Clothing, Textile, Leather and Footwear
• Energy and Water
• Health Services
• Manufacturing
• Mining and Beneficiation
• Tourism and Property Development
• Property Development Services
• KZN Tourism on the road to recovery

Tourism Stats

• 907 N Randolph street, Virginia
• +1 703-697-1776 +1 605-315-8544
• [email protected]

Overview of Tourism and Property sector of Kwazulu Natal...a well kept secret for too long?

For the past several years the KwaZulu-Natal property market has enjoyed almost unparalleled growth, repeatedly outperforming other provinces as an investment destination. The reasons are clear, KwaZulu-Natal had for some time lacked a variety of factors necessary to maximise growth, including a lack of national and international marketing focus. Due to the level of international business activity, Cape Town and Johannesburg were initially thrust into the spotlight in South Africa, resulting in significant foreign investment, which permeated into the property markets of these areas. Any injection of external equity inevitably leads to the consequent uplift in the value of an economy and, provincially, this was evident. This was surprising, given the importance of Durban massive container port. Yet Durban and KwaZulu-Natal did not flourish and develop at the same rate as its provincial rivals. This is no longer the case. South Africa's best kept secret is out. Not only is KwaZulu-Natal's year-round sub-tropical climate a major attraction, so too are the province's exceptional beaches, wildlife experiences and splendour of its mighty Drakensberg mountain range. Investment has come in a variety of guises, inclusive of Durban's Point Waterfront Development, the Gateway Theatre of Shopping and the development of Umhlanga Ridge, the La Lucia Office Park, Sun Coast Casino, Sibaya Casino, the Midlands Mall and Dube TradePort. All these constitute investments of R1 billion or more and further major projects are continuously being undertaken. This has resulted in a property boom as KwaZulu-Natal has hurriedly caught up with its previously higher value provincial neighbours. Areas such as Umhlanga, Mount Edgecombe and Ballito have enjoyed significant growth. This has spurred and led to a plethora of residential development activity in areas serviced by the successes of infrastructural upgrades and a range of blue-chip investments. The residential developers – both small and large-scale - have benefited massively as sales continue to strengthen and developments achieve record sales. The bullish nature of the market has attracted investors and speculators who have purchased units, a move which has enabled land-owners to continue releasing large tracts of land for sale, whilst charging ever escalating premiums. The continued buoyancy of the market here has resulted in beneficial employment creation at every level. In a developing economy, such as that of South Africa, it is possible to see, for the first time, that there exists a large and expanding middle class. And, with the commercial nature of the economy, people are always on move, hence there will always be a need for housing. The commercial property sector in KwaZulu-Natal has been stimulated by demand generated through the province’s two Industrial Development Zones and its significant investment in infrastructure. Effective collaboration between both private and public sectors has also yielded good results, further encouraging investment in the province. With two of the hemisphere’s largest and busiest ports within its borders, both of which are part of Government-proclaimed Industrial Development Zones, KwaZulu-Natal’s commercial property market has seen significant development in recent years, with demand particularly high in the industrial sector. The Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone has secured in the pipeline potential investments in excess of R12 billion, with the region poised to be a future platform for development in the oil, gas and renewable energy industries. In the country's 2015 State of the Province address, it was emphasised that this area is set to become a Special Economic Zone (SEZ), providing the province with a platform to maximise new growth opportunities related to the ocean economy, manufacturing, beneficiation, as well as new and innovative gas and energy options. It was further emphasised that these opportunities would be enhanced by the development of a dedicated container handling facility at the port of Richards Bay. South from Richards Bay, the Dube TradePort, is considered one of South Africa’s top 10 investment opportunities and is geared to promote both foreign and local investment. As the only facility in Africa that combines an international airport, a dedicated cargo terminal, warehousing, offices, retail, hotels and agriculture, this hub has stimulated growth in the surrounding areas north of Durban in industrial, retail and office space. Mr Greg de Klerk, KwaZulu-Natal regional head for Growthpoint Properties, highlights that the industrial sector around the Durban harbour, in particular, is extremely active and strong, with low vacancy rates, although rentals remain under pressure, with demand for small and mini-units at multi-user parks continuing. “There is a scramble to set up large warehousing and manufacturing facilities of greater than 10 000m2 close to the port, although a shortage of serviced industrial land in Durban makes development of land prohibitively expensive,” he says. “There’s a strategic opportunity for Local Government, property owners and private developers to work together to help satisfy business demand for properties that offer port access.” Inland, Cato Ridge and Hammarsdale are home to major distribution centres, with the prospect of a dry port in Cato Ridge adding impetus to development here. It is envisaged that this will relieve the high traffic congestion on the roads around Durban harbour. The retail sector in KwaZulu-Natal’s coastal region continues to grow, with niche shopping centres proving popular, along with upgrades to existing facilities. Much of this has been achieved with the help of Local Government, which, for example, invested in upgrading Inanda Road to support the upgrading of the recently developed Watercrest Mall in Hillcrest. When it comes to office facilities, De Klerk notes that Durban has become one of the country’s leading nodes for 'green' buildings. “Green buildings are no longer just about being environmentally responsible, they make good business sense too,” de Klerk says. “A quality, energy-efficient building is cost efficient and in the race of rising electricity costs, rates and taxes, property owners and their tenants are seeking ways to keep their costs under control.” This is true of new developments, such as The Boulevard in the Parkside precinct of Umhlanga New Town Centre, which will provide 22 000m² of A-grade office space which is expected to receive a four-star rating from Green Star South Africa upon completion. Heading further south in KwaZulu-Natal, a plan to build a dig-out port on the site of the former Durban International Airport is expected to relieve demand on Durban harbour, with construction expected to commence between 2021 and 2025. Although still in feasibility study stage, if this project comes to fruition, it is likely to create significant numbers of employment opportunities and create demand for even more commercial property in the area.

Investing in our Tourism Sector KwaZulu-Natal

The Tourism industry is a key contributor to the KwaZulu-Natal economy. The province's tourism attractions, perhaps less well known internationally, surpass the national norm in many respects and are structured around four components, the coastal holiday areas with their magnificent beaches, sunshine, boating, surfing and fishing; the wildlife game parks in the north; the Drakensberg Mountains and the historical battlefields. Two World heritage sites have been declared recently: the Greater Lucia Wetlands Park, and Ukhahlamba/Drakensberg Mountain Reserve. Both offer interesting opportunities for investors and especially for small businesses. The attractiveness lies in the unique combination of bio-diversity, impressive scenery, all-year climate and its rich mosaic of exciting cultures and history. Its competitive advantage is that it has a monarchy that can be used to support tourism development. Zulu cultural village activity and the African township experience have emerged strongly as new areas of interest that needs to be marketed. Tourists are becoming more discerning in deciding on a new destination for a holiday. The coastal destinations in South Africa presents a tourist with the opportunity of discovering new and wonderful places. Responsible tourism and green tourism has taken the world by storm as tourists become more environmentally conscious in the tourism products they consume. Advertising through websites, brochures etc, tempt the tourist through the use of pictures of beautiful beaches, scenery and attractive descriptions, and the resort themselves use all kinds of marketing strategies to attract as many visitors as possible. In spite of KwaZulu-Natal being well placed to meet the needs of international beach tourists with its natural appeal, the province is not regarded or sold as a beach resort destination, compared to our counterpart destinations in Africa eg: Kenya, Zanzibar. As much as there is a focus in the economic recovery strategies for development of beach tourism facilities in KwaZulu-Natal can we honestly compete for the mass beach tourism markets with Kenya and other like destinations? There is a general trend that tour operators have noticed shorter lead times between bookings and stay; visitor numbers have declined, especially from European markets; and length of stay has decreased at the resorts. Of the 15 only 5 resorts do not have beach access, however the others have beach access but unlike resorts in Kenya Mombasa that are built directly onto the shoreline with immediate access to the beach. One literally steps out of your hotel room directly onto the shores of the beach. This is one of the key challenges that KZN is facing in terms of beach resort developments and attracting new markets. However despite the challenges, Trade & Investment KwaZulu-Natal in partnership with project promoters have packaged and are actively marketing beach resort developments that reside within our investment pipeline.

The film industry in KwaZulu-Natal is experiencing steady growth. The Durban Film Office, the film promotion arm of the eThekwini Municipality, says local production activity has soared by 41% over the past three years. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), The KwaZulu- Natal Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDT) and The Durban Chamber of Commerce have all identified the film and media industries as strategic growth industries and investing heavily in attracting film production to KwaZulu- Natal. Durban also boasts the largest and longest running film festival in South Africa. The Zulu Coast Film Office, incorporating Ilembe North Coast, officially promotes and acts as industry facilitator for the feature film, television, video and stills photography production trade. It is funded by and operates under the auspices of the uThungulu District Municipality based in the Zululand port city of Richards Bay. - www.kwazulunatalfilm.co.za - www.durbanfilmoffice.com - www.film-zulucoast.co.za

COVID19 IMPACT: KZN TOURISM ON THE ROAD TO RECOVERY

In less than a decade there have been several global public health crises. These include: The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), Ebola, Zika virus and now the Corona Virus (otherwise known as COVID-19). In order to contain most of these contagious respiratory diseases there is a need to limit the movement of people, warranting the need for telemedicine or telehealth.

Telehealth is the distribution of health-related services and information via electronic information and telecommunication technologies. It is convenient and allows for long distance patient consultation, care, advice, reminders, education, intervention and monitoring.

In the case of the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine is a readily available solution that allows those following treatment for other conditions to continue doing so, while potential COVID-19 cases can be filtered out remotely. It entails the use of information and communication technology to provide patient care and the sharing of clinical information between different locations.

Clinical applications of telemedicine include teleconsultations, telecardiology, telegynaecology, and mental health consultations. It does, however, carry some challenges and limitations particularly with regards surgery and anaesthesiology. As the coronavirus wreaks havoc on the healthcare system, telemedicine is helping healthcare provider organisations and caregivers better respond to the needs of patients. It enables the transfer of health information across distances using email, telephony, video links and social networks. In this way, telemedicine is bridging the gap between people, physicians and health systems, allowing everyone, especially asymptomatic patients, to stay at home and communicate through virtual channels, helping to reduce the spread of the virus to populations and frontline medical staff.

Telemedicine has helped healthcare provider organisations and caregivers better respond to the needs of patients. Globally and in South Africa telemedicine is facing certain legal, regulatory and reimbursement challenges, but there is nonetheless a need to facilitate more widespread adoption thereof. In March 2020, the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) added a relaxation clause to the telemedicine rules, allowing its use during the Covid-19 crisis. This allowed patients to be managed remotely as the country went into lockdown. We are hopeful that telemedicine will continue to be permitted after the crisis. improving access to healthcare.

 The telemedicine surge during the COVID-19 pandemic is helping to provide care to patients who might need it after exhibiting potential symptoms of coronavirus infection. Telemedicine is presenting itself as the ideal solution in this regard, linking patients remotely to hospitals, primary care and consulting disciplines, thus allowing access to healthcare while curbing disease spread. Telemedicine solutions and programmes allow people suffering from other medical ailments during this time to receive care from home without entering medical facilities, minimising the risk of their contracting the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also known as the CDC and the World Health Organisation (WHO) are urging both the general public and medical staff to use telemedicine solutions for non-urgent communications in order to reduce the pressures on emergency rooms and clinics.

During the pandemic, telemedicine has been used to ‘forward triage’ patients long before they arrive at primary care facilities. Many chronic care patients can schedule teleconsultations with their doctors hence minimising their risk of exposure to COVID-19. Chronic medication can be delivered to patients’ homes. This allows for continuity of care. This digitalisation of healthcare is streamlining the dispensing of medication, record sharing and patient-tracking. In the process, telemedicine has proven to be a crucial lifeline for some rural communities as it allows  rural hospitals to outsource diagnostic and other services and thus help reduce providers’ sense of isolation. There are however a few limitations particularly if the treating practitioner is unable to obtain a full clinical picture from a remote location particularly in the absence of a physical examination. Although telemedicine is evolving fast and is a proven modality to enable access to healthcare, it is important that it is used appropriately, and its use should not compromise patient care. Telemedicine oversight is therefore essential, and this is the responsibility of the HPCSA

• Accommodation

Contact Details

• Ms Fathima Amra
• Sector Manager
• Knowledge Management
• 1 Arundel Close, Durban, KZN, 4001
• +27 31 368 9600
• Contact Ms Fathima Amra

• Ms Thokozani Chili
• Project Manager
• Investment Promotion
• Contact Ms Thokozani Chili

Translate the website to a language of your choice!

• Contact Number: (033) 264 2500
• 26 Apr 2024

Districts Contact Information

Boyce mntambo.

• Cell number: 082 468 8812
• Service Number:
• City: EThekwini Metropolitan
• Email: [email protected]

Zanele Tullock

• Cell number: 072 881 3834
• Service Number: 033 264 2500
• Address: 270 Jabu Ndlovu Street, Pietermaritzburg
• City: UMgungundlovu District Municipality
• Email: [email protected]

Nhlanhla Mpondi

• Cell number: 082 920 7327
• City: Harry Gwala District Municipality
• Email: [email protected]

Sizwe Dladla

• Cell number: 082 868 3940
• City: King Cetshwayo District Municipality
• Email: [email protected]

Njabulo Ndlela

• Cell number: 071 492 1020
• City: UMkhanyakude District Municipality
• Email: [email protected]

Gugu Sibisi

• Cell number: 076 755 8444
• City: Amajuba District Municipality
• Email: [email protected]
• City: Uthukela District Municipality
• City: IIembe District Municipality
• City: Zulluland District Municipality
• City: UGu District Municipality
• City: UMzinyathi District Municipality