The 1820 Settlers Monument in Grahamstown, South Africa, was built in 1974 in the shape of a ship and commemorates the British families who arrived in the area in 1820. Close by is the Monument Theatre complex where one can view many paintings which decorate the impressive foyer.

• Cape Recife
• Seaview Game and Lion Park

Day drive from Port Elizabeth to the Shamwari Game Reserve
 
The magnificent Shamwari Game Reserve is a privately owned Game Reserve. It is home to the Big Five and is located in a malaria-free area. In addition to the Big Five there are 18 antelope species and a large diversity of smaller mammals. Day visitors start the tour with a lunch on the game-viewing deck of the Conservation Centre. It is followed by a visit to Kaya Lendaba, a traditional African arts and culture village and then onto a guided game drive. The tour ends around 18.30.

Walk along the promenade and over weekends see what is on sale at the fleamarket. Continue and visit Bayworld, take a break in Natures Valley with its relaxing atmosphere then continue along the beach front onto the Pier and visit the Casino.

Day drive to Addo Elephant National Park:
 
This park was established in 1931 as a sanctuary for the eastern Cape’s last surviving elephants. The population has grown steadily and now is home to over 400 elephants. Black rhino was introduced in 1962, other mammals include eland, red hartebeest and Cape buffalo, also a  variety of antelope. Recently 6 lions were introduced.   

• Dinorbin Rock Painting
• Barkly Pass
• Elliot
• Ugie
• Maclear
• Oakleigh Farm
• Dinosaur Tracks

The Seaview Game & Lion Park, which was established in 1975, is located on the Eastern Cape’s sunshine Coast, 25 km’s west of the Port Elizabeth’s city centre. Set in 120 hectares of superb bush and grassland, the Park offers the unique experience of close-up Game-viewing.

The Seaview Game & Lion Park is home to more than forty species of wildlife. Giraffe, Zebra, Wildebeest, Impala, Duiker and Monkeys roam free. Crocodile, Rock Monitors, Meerkat , Genets, Jackals, and Caracal (Lynx), are housed in camps and enclosures in the sanctuary areas. They are released into freedom if possible.

Fees: Entrance to the Park is R33.00 per adult, R28.00 for pensioners, R28 for students (must have valid student card) and R14.00 per child or scholar. Toddlers of two years or below enter free. Discounts can be arranged for large groups.

Visiting Hours: Open daily between 9:00 and 17:00 By special arrangement, the Boma or Restaurant can be hired outside these hours. Feeding of Lions at 12:00 noon on Sundays

How to find the Seaview Game & Lion Park: The Seaview Game and Lion Park is situated 20 min West of Port Elizabeth. To reach the Game Park, turn off the N2 national road at the sign No.730 Greenbushes/Seaview.' Travel for about 7km towards the sea, turn left onto a gravel road marked "Lion Park". Turn left into the Park approximately 500m down the gravel road.


Tel:041 378 1702        

Email:  seaview@isat.co.za

Website:  www.seaviewgamepark.co.za

The Seaview Game and Lion Park is situated on the Eastern Cape’s "Sunshine Coast", 25 km’s west of Port Elizabeth’s city centre. Set in 120 hectares of superb bush and grassland, the Seaview Game and Lion Park offers the unique experience of close-up Game-viewing.

Giraffe, zebra, various antelope, jackals and monkeys roam free. Crocodile, Rock Monitors, Meerkats, African Wildcat, Caracal (Lynx), Lions and lion Cubs, Tigers and tiger cubs are housed in camps and enclosures, some of these are under the boardwalk. Visitors may enjoy a light meal at the park's restaurant.

Visiting Hours (subject to change):
- Open daily between 09:00 and 17:00
- By special arrangement, the Boma can be hired outside these hours.
- Feeding of Lions for public viewing is at 12:00 noon Sundays

Directions to the Seaview Game and Lion Park:

From Port Elizabeth, drive west along the N2 highway towards Humansdorp/Capetown,  
Exit off ramp SEAVIEW / GREENBUSHES (Sign No. 730) (730kms to Cape Town)
Turn left towards Seaview and follow Lion Park signs.
Turn left into Lower Seaview Rd
The Park is on the left.

From Jeffreys Bay, drive east along the N2 highway towards Port Elizabeth turn off at sign No.730.
Turn right and then go under the bridge.
Follow Lion Park signs.
Note the left fork into Lower Seaview Road and the Park is on the left along this road.
The Game Park roads are accessible to all vehicles.

THE APPLE EXPRESS IN THE EASTERN CAPE

The Apple Express  runs every day to Thornhill and back, with a two-hour stop for a braai (barbecue). It crosses over the highest narrow-guage bridge in the world.

This is the longest narrow gauge railway in the world, known as the Port Elizabeth –Avontuur line at 177 miles or in today’s terms 284 kilometres.

Visitors are welcome to spend a relaxed day on a historic train ride from Port Elizabeth’s Humewood Road station to the villages of Thornhill (33 miles) or Loerie (43 miles) as well as longer trips to Patensie (69 miles) or Assegaaibosch (100 miles) crossing numerous streams and rivers in this unspoiled terrain. Classic steam locomotives pull historic wooden coaches to accommodate the day and weekend trippers. The greatest engineering feat is the Van Stadens River Gorge bridge, built in 1905, which is 77metres (254ft.) high and 154 metres long and is the highest2ft. narrow gauge railway bridge in the world. Currently day trippers can experience luncheons, braais or picnics (trip specific) before slowly returning to the city.  Weekends away allow passengers to spend two nights in the countryside whilst enjoying all the family activities that the Langkloof and Gamtoos Valleys have to offer. These trips are expeditions in nostalgia, reminding one of the glory of the bygone daysof steam locomotives. To comply with safety procedures, railway rules and legislation, should the countryside be dry or for several operational reasons, steam traction may not be availed of which results in having to make use of a more modern diesel locomotive.

The Apple Express, as we know it today, first saw the light of day in 1965 due to a local request for a train trip. Since 2003the “Port Elizabeth Apple Express” (PEAE) a non profit company has taken over the functioning of the Tourist train.

Construction of the 600 mm line (2ft) started in May 1902 and finally reached Avontuur in December 1906, with the official opening in 1907. The line was built to connect the deciduous fruit farmers of the Langkloof Valley to the harbour in Port Elizabeth. A branch line from Gamtoos Junction to Patensie was completed in 1914 for the similar transport of agricultural products to markets overseas.

Of significance, the line passes the Chelsea Quarries from where in the 1920’s operators used this narrow gauge line to haul tons ofrock for the construction of a mile longbreakwater at the end of the Don Pedro Pier. This was to be strong enough to smash the heavy seas brought in by the southeasters and allow ships to find comfort closer to shore.

The reason for selecting a narrow gauge as opposed to the conventional 1067 mm (3ft.6inches) gauge was due to the spectacular terrain twisting and winding through hills and traversing many streams. It was easier for the two-foot railway line to track (no pun intended) the contours of the terrain than the standard ‘Cape Gauge’. Initially, Bagnall B Class and NG 15 Class locomotives (ex South West Africa) were used, whilst in later years the NGG 13 Garratts were introduced into the operation to cope with the growing Limestone traffic to the then Eastern Cape Cement works. More recently the stronger NGG 16 Garatt Engines were availed of.

Unfortunately, from 1986 enterprises in the Langkloof and citrus areas favoured road transport to rail and this detrimental migration resulted in the slow demise of this unique stretch of rail nestled in beautiful regional surrounds. Twenty years later however, the PEAE is successfully reviving this 100 mile safari for the benefit of excursion seekers to accommodate the influx of visitors to the Eastern Cape.

Clarens
 
The town of Clarens in South Africa is a picturesque village which has become very popular with artists as it is located in a setting of spectacular sandstone outcrops and streams are lined with willow and poplar trees.

The town is named after the Swiss town where President Paul Kruger died in exile in 1904. The Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek (ZAR) President’s historical links with the area date back to 1866. In the village are fine sandstone dwellings, two beautiful sandstone churches and an old mill which is still in working order.

If history interests you visit the Clarens Museum. Visitors can undertake guided fossil-hunting trips and on farms in the area are several rock painting sites.

Golden Gate Highlands National Park and Basotho Cultural Village

Golden Gate Highlands National Park

The Golden Gate Highlands National Park in South Africa has been named after the twin bluffs – Sentinel (or Brandwag) and Mushroom Rocks and Gladstone’s Nose which resembles the profile of the former British prime minister.

It is renowned for its mountain scenery dominated by impressive sandstone formations and expanses of grassveld. There are several short trails e.g. Holkrans Trail features spectacular caves and sections have to be negotiated by wooden ladders.

A guided walk will take you to Cathedral Cave where a stream plunges some 30m through a narrow opening in the cave roof resembling the domed roof of a cathedral. There are game-viewing loops  where one can  view the game e.g. black wildebeest, blesbok, red hartebeest, grey rhebok and zebra. There are many bird species e.g. bald ibis, and a variety of birds of prey for bird watchers.

Basotho Cultural Village

The Basotho Cultural Village lies within the QwaQwa National Park in South Africa. Here the lifestyle and architecture of the South Sotho is accurately depicted from the 16th century to the colourful present.

The village is a living museum where visitors can learn about the history and culture of the people. Cultural activities are staged at an amphitheatre. Visitors can take a one hour guided tour or join the Ngaka (traditional healer) on a 2hr walk on the medicinal and customary uses of plants and a bonus see rock paintings. At the restaurant visitors can sample a traditional Sotho meal.

Gariep Dam

The Gariep Dam in South Africa covers a surface area of 372km2 when full and has a capacity of 5346 million m3.  This dam was completed in 1969. The dam forms part of the Orange River Development Scheme, which includes the Vanderkloof Dam downstream and an 82,5-km-long tunnel linking the Gariep River with the Fish River in the Eastern Cape.

The Gariep dam is popular with anglers and water-sport enthusiasts. Visit the Gariep Nature Reserve with its many game-viewing roads to see the black wildebeest, blesbok, red hartebeest, springbok etc roam the area.     

The Grahamstown History and Natural Science Museums displays fossils, settler artifacts and Xhosa dress and hut.

Spread over 100 hectares of gorgeous landscaped gardens and a waterfowl speckled dam, this tranquil natural haven is only six kilometres from Johannesburg central. Walking, kayaking and sailing are possible, or explore the rose garden and succulent collection.

Address:

Olifants Road, Emmerentia

Johannesburg

Pretoria National Botanical Garden

The magnificent Pretoria National Botanical Garden is located on a 35m high quartzite outcrop (Silverton Ridge) to the east of Pretoria lies the Botanical Garden.

This outcrop divides the Garden into two sections. Its frosty south-facing section and the north-facing, warmer section present two different worlds to the visitor and botanist. There are paved walkways and nature trails to view the natural vegetation with its diversity of indigenous fauna and flora and an artificial waterfall in the forest adjoining the tea garden.

The Desmond Cole Lithops Collection (succulents known as ‘flowering stones’) and the Hardy Collection of plants from Namaqualand, Madagascar and Namibia are on display.

Cullinan, Witbank, Middelburg and Boitshabelo
 
Cullinan: 

The South African town of Cullinan was developed around the Premier Diamond Mine and has beautiful terraced Victorian cottages. The famous Cullinan Diamond, 3,106-carat is the largest rough gem ever found was recovered from this mine. It was presented to King Edward VII and forms part of the British Crown Jewels.

There are a number of tours available to enter the mine shaft, hoist room and big hole. 10km north of the town is the Pretorius Agricultural Museum which is on an old farmstead dating back to 1880. View the historic house, outbuildings, stables and there are exhibits of old agricultural implements.

Witbank: 

The name Witbank (White Ridge) is named after the white sandstone outcrop where wagon transport drivers rested. It is mainly a coal mining town and the first shaft was sunk in 1896. Of historic interest, Winston Churchill hid in the mine shaft at the Transvaal and Delagoa Bay Mine after his escape from Pretoria.
 
Middelburg:

The town of Middleburg in South Africa lies in an area rich in coal deposits. Its original name in 1866 was Nazareth but renamed Middelburg in 1874. Places of interest are the White Church, built in 1890 for the Dutch Reformed Church, the concentration camp cemeteries south of the town and on Kanonkop, and the sandstone Meyer Bridge built in 1895 over the Little Olifants River.

Botshabelo: 

In 1865 this town was established as a mission station, it is a Sotho name meaning ‘place of refuge’. It is 8km from Middelburg. The main attraction is the South Ndebele open-air museum with displays of Ndebele history and culture. A living museum depicts the development of Ndebele architecture from the early dome-shaped grass homesteads to mud-walled homes with their famous mural decorations. Guided tours are available. A nature reserve surrounds the mission and can be explored along day walks.
 

Scenic drive from Johannesburg / Pretoria to the De Wildt Cheetah and Wildlife Centre
 
Barton’s Folly:  

Barton's Folly was built during the South African War in 1901 to guard the entrance to Hekpoort, a narrow kloof through the southern slopes of the Magaliesberg and formed part of a line of  blockhouses in the Magaliesberg. Its unusual shape, which differed from the typical two-storey blockhouses of the time, earned it the name Barton’s Folly.
 
Magaliesberg Mountain Range:

Its original name was the Cashan Mountains. The Magaliesberg Mountain range rises 330m above the surrounding plains and a length of 170km and is dissected by numerous kloofs with crystal-clear streams, waterfalls and pools. Animals occurring here include leopard, brown hyaena, mountain reedbuck, bushbuck, baboon etc. and is home to 150 bird species.

De Wildt Cheetah and Wildlife Centre: 

The De Wildt Cheetah and Wildlife Centre in South Africa was established in 1971 and the centre has received international recognition for its work in bringing the cheetah back from the edge of extinction.

Although notoriously difficult to breed, 600 cheetah cubs have been born. The centre is also the first to breed the rare king cheetah which is not a sub-species of the cheetah. It has also bred and released captive-born wild dogs back into the wild. Other animals seen are the brown hyaena, black-foooted cat, suni and Egyptian vulture. A 2hr guided tour is on offer to visitors.

Roodepoort, Krugersdorp, Randfontein and Doornkop
 
Roodepoort:

The South African town of Roodepoort was developed around a mining camp and the discovery of gold in 1884.  Visit the Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden which is set against the backdrop of the impressive Witpoortjie waterfall and covers 225ha of landscaped gardens, lawns and natural vegetation.

The National Railway Museum has a collection of over 100 steam, diesel and underground electric locomotives, steam cranes, steam rollers, old passenger coaches and other items from the era of steam.
 
Krugersdorp: 

The town of Krugersdorp was named after the South African President Paul Kruger. It played a pivotal role in the events leading up to the War of Endependence. Historical buildings are the City Hall, Magistrate’s Court and offices and the old railway station. Visit the Krugersdorp Game Reserve which covers 1500 ha. With several different habitats including grassland, rock outcrops and forest with a variety of game e.g. buffalo, hippo, white rhino, giraffe, zebra and antelope. The main attraction is the lion enclosure. Day and night game drives are available.
 
Randfontein:  

This name means ‘ridge fountain’. Randfontein in South Africa has the largest gold mine in the world. (Randfontein Estates Gold Mining Co.) which was founded in 1889.

Doornkop: 

This site marks the location where the invading force led by Dr. L. S. Jameson surrendered to the Boer forces on 2.1.1896. This expedition was known as the Jameson Raid.

     

Sterkfontein - The Cradle of Humankind in South Africa

Sterkfontein is located about a 1 hrs drive away from Johannesburg. The collective name for the fossil hominid sites of Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, Kromdraai and environs is Cradle of Humankind.

The Cradle of Humankind in South Africa was declared a World Heritage Site in 1999. Sterkfontein is one of the richest early hominid  sites in the world and is situated in the dolomite hills north of Krugersdorp. One of the significant finds was Mrs. Ples, the first complete hominid skull (discovered in 1947) and the fossil skeleton of Little Foot, a 3,3million-year-old human-like primate unearthed in 1998. 

Excavations began in 1920 and hominid fossils, animal fossils, fossil wood and stone tools have been uncovered in 12 sites within the area.  There are guided tours to take you into the Sterkfontein cave where a number of underground chambers with magnificent stalagmites, stalactites and other flowstone formations can be seen.

Also in the area is the Wonder Cave, a huge subterranean cavern with its stalagmites and stalactites and the Old Kromdraai gold mine.

Tswaing Crater and Bela-Bela Warmbaths
 
Tswaing Crater: 

The famous Tswaing Crater in South Africa is the best-preserved meteorite impact crater in the world which was formed 220,000 years ago. The diameter is just over 1km and it has a depth of about 120m.

A brine lake lies in the centre of the crater. The Tswana name means ‘place of salt’. A guided tour is offered but displays on the natural and cultural history is on site. Visit the Tswaing Crater Museum and view the living village of the Ndebele culture.

Bela-Bela / Warmbaths: 

Bela-Bela / Warmbaths is world renowned as a holiday and health destination. Its original name was Hartingsburg but in 1920 it was renamed Warmbad (warm bath) after a hot spring surfaced and once again renamed to Bela-Bela which means ‘boiling boiling’ in North Sotho.

The hot mineral springs bubble out of the earth at about 22,000 litres per hour and the temperature is 53oC and is rich in sodium chloride, calcium carbonate and other mineral salts that have healing properties. The spring resort, has a hydro spa, outdoor pool complex, water slides, wave pool and river ride. Cable water-skiing is one of many leisure and recreational activities on offer.  

The Chocolate Studio is the first of its kind in South Africa, offering specialised training workshops to entry level chefs, non professionals and chocolate enthusiasts. The Chocolate Studio, which is situated in shop 34 of The Design Quarter, Fourways, Johannesburg, is endorsed by Lindt's Master Swiss Chocolatiers. All creations at the studio are made with the Lindt chocolate ranges.

The workshops offer each participant an opportunity to gain insight and obtain a better understanding of the secretive world of chocolate making & its confections. Lindt chocolate lovers are able to create, ‘play’ and explore the many techniques involving chocolate during the interesting and exciting workshops.

Participants can enrol in any one of the 12 workshops on offer including Chocolate Appreciation, Dessert Tasters, Art of Truffles, Petite Desserts in a Glass, Passions Cookbook Demo, Tempering & Décor, Chocolate Confectionery, Moulding & Fillings, Advanced Chocolate & Confectionery, Hand Crafted Truffles, Showpiece Creation, Cake Creation & Décor.

The studio shop offers retail items including Lindt recipe books, fondue sets, an assortment of pralines, Lindt couverture and specific chocolate apparatus.

Union Buildings in Pretoria, South Africa:

A Pretoria landmark, the Sir Herbert Baker designed Union Building complex is the official seat of South Africa's government, housing the Presidency and Department of Foreign Affairs. Set on its very own acropolis of Meintjieskop – the highest point of the city – and surrounded by a lovely terraced garden that is open to the public.

The Union Buildings in Pretoria are the seat of the South African government. The building is 275m long and was designed by Sir H. Baker. It is the official residence of the presidency and parliament is held here during the winter months, during the summer months it is held in Cape Town. The view over the city is magnificent.

Location:

Church Street, Arcadia, Pretoria, South Africa

An architectural icon that commemorates the early pioneering days of South Africa and the history of the Afrikaner people. Designed by architect Gerard Moerdijk, the massive monument stands as an architectural translation of the Great Trek and the lives of the Voortrekkers. The site contains a number of significant attractions, including a wall of remembrance, a Heritage Centre and Fort Schanskop.

Location:

Eeufees Road, Groenkloof, Pretoria

Telephone number:

012 326 6770

Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden

The Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden in South Africa is set against the backdrop of the impressive Witpoortjie waterfall and covers 225ha of landscaped gardens, lawns and natural vegetation.

The natural vegetation of the area is known as the “Rocky Highveld Grassland” and consists of a mosaic of grassland and savanna, with dense bush in kloofs and along streams.

It is home to an abundance of wildlife with over 220 birds species e.g. Verreaux’s Eagles which nest on the cliffs alongside the waterfall. There are also a number of reptiles and small mammals e.g. small antelope and jackals. There are walkways, a geological trail, a bird hide overlooking Sasol Lake, and an interpretive centre.
 

Dundee and Anglo-Boer War (1899-1902) and Anglo-Zulu War (1879)

Elandslaagte: 

Battle on 21.10.1899 – recapture of railway station which was occupied by the Boers. Several monuments and war graves in the vicinity. 

Dundee: 

22.10.1899 British forces withdrew from Dundee under cover of darkness.                                                                                      

Talana: 

The first shots of the Anglo-Boer War were fired here on 22.10.1899. The Boer forces seized Talana Hill but the British launched an infantry attack and the Boers were forced to retreat. At Talana Museum are exhibits of that battle and on the Anglo-Zulu War. The museum comprises 17 buildings with exhibits of mining, industry and agriculture.                             

Isandlwana:  The battle of Isandlwana ranks among the worst defeats suffered by the British Army during the Anglo-Zulu War.                                                

Rorke’s Drift:

A small number of British soldiers successfully defended their garrison against thousands of Zulu warriors.  

Fugitive’s Drift:

A few soldiers escaped from Islandlwana but were overtaken by the Zulu. They were buried where they fell.

Helpmekaar:

General Buller’s forces broke through the Boer defence lines in the Biggarsberg at Helpmekaar and opened the way for the recapture of Dundee. On the crest of the hill are the remains of a Boer fort and a British military cemetery with a single grave. 

Fugitives' Drift in KwaZulu-Natal is famous as the site where officers Melvill and Coghill gave their lives to save the Queen's colours of their regiment. They had earlier fought at the KwaZulu-Natal battlefield of Isandlwana, and when all was lost had been sent to save the pride of their regiment.

The Zulu people called the magnificent Howick Waterfalls 'KwaNogqaza' meaning “Place of the Tall One”.  According to local legend the pool at the bottom of the Howick Falls is the residence of the Inkanyamba a giant serpent-like creature. According to lore only sangomas can safely approach the falls and then only to offer prayers and other acts of worship to the inkanyamba, ancestral spirits and the 'Great God'. The Howick Falls Gorge walk winds down from the top to the foaming pool at the bottom.

The Howick Falls is a waterfall in Howick located in the KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa. This waterfall is approximately 95 meters in height and lies on the Umgeni River.  The falls were most likely first seen by European explorers in the early 1800s. However, the KwaZulu-Natal province has known human occupation for well over 30, 000 years and it is likely that it was a well known site prior to any western influence given the rich legend surrounding the area. Many people have been swept over the falls, especially in the pioneer days of the province, as some settlers thought the easiest place to cross the river was just above the falls.

Lake Sibaya

The Lake Sibaya is the largest freshwater lake in South Africa and an important wetland for waterbirds. Over 300 bird species have been recorded here e.g. yellowspotted nicator, brown robin, Woodward’s batis etc. There are also hippo and crocodile populations. Explore the rustic bush camp (Baya Camp) on the lake’s southern shore.   

The Natal Sharks Board is a research institute situated 2km outside of Umhlanga.  It is dedicated to studying sharks, specifically in relation to their danger to humans.  Audiovisual presentations are offered at the Natal Sharks Board and dissections are held.  When the personnel ‘service’ the shark nets that protect Durban’s beach front visitors have the unique opportunity to join them.

The KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board in South Africa services a combination of shark nets and recently-deployed drumlines, spread at intervals along 320 km of coastline in KwaZulu-Natal, thereby providing protection against shark attack at 38 localities. The Sharks Board in South Africa employs about 170 staff members, most of whom put to sea on 15 boats to service the equipment. The other members of staff are engaged in research, administration, public relations, store-keeping and maintenance.
 

Durban: Scenic drive along the North Coast to Tongaat, driving along the Sugar and Dolphin Coast

Highlights:
 

• Umgeni River Bird Park
• Umhlanga Rocks
• Harold Johnson Nature Reserve
• Tongaat

 
Umgeni River Bird Park: 

This lies in a scenic setting of waterfalls, lush tropical vegetation and 30m high cliffs along the Umgeni River. It has a collection of over 3000 exotic and indigenous birds e.g. coloured parrots, macaws, Asian hornbills etc.  Visitors can walk among the birds in large walk-through aviaries.

Umhlanga Rocks:

Walk along the promenade offering splendid views of the Indian Ocean with its sandy and rocky beaches. The lighthouse built in 1945 is a well-known landmark. The Natal Sharks Board has its headquarters here and a visit is a must to view audiovisual presentations and the display hall.

Harold Johnson Nature Reserve: 

A small nature reserve which covers 104ha of coastal bush and grassland on the banks of the Tugela River. A variety of animals roam around e.g. impala, bushbuck, blue, common and red duiker, zebra. Epiphytic orchids and ferns can be seen.

Tongaat: 

This was founded in 1849 and named after the River Tongati. It is one of the largest sugar-producing districts in the world. Tongaat is also the oldest Indian community in South Africa. During 1860 the Indian labourers arrived to work in the sugar plantations. Visit the Juggernath Puri temple, the tallest and oldest Hindu temple in South Africa. At Compensation is the Crocodile Creek, home to 7000 crocodiles.

Sugar Coast: 

The Sugar Coast in KwaZulu-Natal stretches from Umhlanga Rocks northwards to Zimbali and inland to Mount Edgecombe, Verulam and Hambanathi. The coastal hills are dominated by vast fields of sugar cane.

Dolphin Coast:

Along this stretch of coast from Ballito northwards to Zinkwazi Beach many bottlenose dolphins can be seen offshore and surfing with the waves.

Estcourt:

Colenso and Anglo-Boer War Battlefields

Colenso

This town lies on the banks of the Tugela River surrounded by the Drakensberg.

Armoured Train Cemetery:

It was near this site that Winston Churchill was captured by Boer forces, who derailed the armoured observation train which he was travelling. A plaque just off the road records the event and the cemetery set among trees. Off the R103 near Frere.

Chieveley Military Cemetery

Here Lt. Freddy Roberts, the son of Lord Roberts, lies buried. He was posthumously awarded the VC. Follow the dirt road past the railway station to the cemetery set among trees. Off the R103 from Estcourt to Colenso.

R.E. Stevenson Museum(Old Toll House)

Erected in 1879 as the house of the Bulwer Bridge. The military historian Dr R.E. Stevenson made a study of the Battles fought in and around Colenso during the Anglo-Boer War. Obtain the key from the police station next door.

Anglo-Boer War - The Battle of Colenso took place on 15 Dec, 1899. Reminders of the battle may be seen at the Clouston Garden of Remembrance and most of the 5th Brigade soldiers killed on that day were buried in a mass grave at Ambleside cemetery.

The Battle of Thukela took place on 21 February, 1900. To visit the graves and memorials on the side of the road turn off from the Colenso road towards Ezakheni/Newcastle.

Estcourt:
 
Moor Park Nature Reserve and Gaint’s Castle
 
Moor Park Nature Reserve: 

A day permit, obtainable at the gate, is necessary to view the many species of game that roam over grassland, thornveld, valley bushveld and sandstone cliffs and 190 bird species can be seen. The reserve offers a 6km self-guided trail (Old Furrow Trail) plus many other interesting trails. Veglaer, where the Voortrekkers fought a 3day battle against a large Zulu force in 1838, has been inundated by the Wagendrift Dam. On Makhabeni hill overlooking Moor Park is one of the oldest iron age sites dating back to AD1300 and on the southern side of the dam are large fossil beds with many fossilized trees lying exposed on the surface of the ground. 
 
Giant’s Castle:

Giant's Castle Game Reserve lies in the Central Berg region of the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park. Its name comes from the silhouette of the mountain escarpment that resembles the profile of a sleeping giant. The 3 mountain peaks which tower above are Gaint’s Castle (3313m) in the south, Mafadi (3346m) and Injasuti Dome (3409m) in the north. 

It was created mainly to protect the Eland, Africa’s largest antelope and for the numerous species of vultures. Visit the “Vulture hide” and view the Bearded Vultures and other endangered species feeding in winter. Other game to be seen are grey rhebok, mountain reedbuck, common duiker and oribi. There are many hiking trails from under 2km to overnight trails with huts.

A guided tour to the Main Caves is a must to view over 540 rock paintings of the San people (Bushmen). 

Harrismith:
 
Sentinel Drive, Royal Natal National Park, Retief Rock and Sterkfontein Dam 
 
Sentinel Drive: 

After Phuthaditjaba the gravel road winds along the Witsieshoek Pass. The 6km drive with the Sentinel Peak (3165m) towering above passes the Breakfast Rock, The Dome, The Pudding and Witches reaching the car park at the base. A short walk from the car park to the Escarpment edge will reveal dramatic views of the Royal Natal National Park far below or take a 3hr hike to the top of the Amphitheatre and the 3282m Mont-aux-Sources.

Royal Natal National Park: 

This has the most spectacular mountain scenery with the awe-inspiring Amphitheatre. It stretches between the Sentinel in the west and Eastern Buttress and the Devil’s Tooth in the east, the sheer basalt wall rises over 700m above the Little Berg, which the Thukela Falls plunge more than 600m in five leaps over the Escarpment edge. There are many footpaths for visitors to ramble along. 

Retief Rock:

This landmark in on a route followed by the Voortrekkers. Piet Retief, the Voortrekker leader, left the camp in 1837 to visit the Zulu king and by 12 Nov. he had not returned. On this overhanging rock Retief’s daughter wrote, ’P. Retief Den 12 Novr. 1837’, in green paint.

Sterkfontein Dam and Nature Reserve:

The dam lies in the upper reaches of the Nuwejaarspruit and forms part of the Drakensberg Pumped Storage Scheme. The Nature Reserve is dominated by grasslands and cream-coloured sandstone outcrops. Animals to be seen are oribi, reedbuck, mountain reedbuck and grey rhebuck and many species of birds including vultures. 

 

Scenic drive from Ladysmith: Bergville, Royal National Park
 
Bergville

This village established in 1897 is now an agricultural and trading centre. Visit the Upper Thukela Blockhouse built during the Anglo-Boer War by British forces. A 1/2hrs drive to the northeast is Spioenkop and iNtabamnyama battlefields, where Boer and British forces met in battle from 20-24 January, 1900.

Royal Natal National Park

The Royal Natal National Park is home to the most spectacular mountain scenery with the awe-inspiring Amphitheatre. It stretches between the Sentinel in the west and Eastern Buttress and the Devil’s Tooth in the east, the sheer basalt wall rises over 700m above the Little Berg, which the Thukela Falls plunge more than 600m in five leaps over the Escarpment edge. There are many footpaths for visitors to ramble along. 

 
 

Howick, Howick Falls and Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve
 
Howick: 

Visit the Howick Museum with displays of informal settlement dwellings and the early history of the settlers plus military badges. The Military Cemetery is close to the site of an Anglo Boer War military hospital and concentration camp. 
 
Howick Falls:

The Umgeni River plunges 94m over sheer dolerite cliffs into a narrow gorge as it makes its way down stream to the Albert Falls Dam. These falls was proclaimed a national monument in 1951 together with 32ha of land around it. A viewing platform provides fine views over the falls.  A 2hr walk will take you to the pools at the base of the falls.
 
Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve:

This is situated below the Howick Falls and is an area of 650ha. There are many drives to view giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, nyala, impala, eland and other mammals plus the many birds which are home to the reserve.

Day trip to Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve and Fairacres Estate

Oribi Gorge

The Oribi Gorge is situated along the spectacular forest-cloaked ravine of the Mzimkulwana River. The river has etched a spectacular gorge into the mountains to create a rugged, natural landscape of breathtaking beauty. Over centuries, the sandstone cliffs of the gorge have been carved out by the river. At the base of the cliffs there are rocks over 1000 million years old while the cliffs were formed from sandstone deposited about 365 million years ago. The canyon has been named after the small antelope, Oribi. The forests are home to leopard, caracal, serval, bushbuck, blue duiker and samango monkey and the grasslands are the home of the oribi. The gorge is a bird-watchers paradise, with over 255 species of birds. There are 500 plant species e.g. orchids, proteas, aloe and many species of cycads.  Visitors can explore the reserve along six nature walks, ranging from 1km to 9km.

Fairacres Estate

Spectacular views of the Oribi Gorge can be seen from vantage points along the cliff edge e.g. the Horseshoe Bend in the Mzimkhulwana River. Other rock formations with imaginative names which can be seen are. Overhanging Rock, Sphinx, Pulpit, Leaning Tower and Baboon’s Castle. Lehr’s Waterfall is also a popular attraction.
 

The Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, basks lazily in the green hills just north of Durban. Conveniently situated between Umdloti and Umhlanga, Sibaya is the ideal getaway for those seeking all the thrills and spills, laughs and luxury KwaZulu-Natal has to offer. With every convenience from state-of-the-art conference facilities to placid ocean views, the Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom which is part of the South African Sun International hotel group is nothing short of being home away from home.

The famous Golden Mile / Marine Parade in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, stretches for 6km, with its long surf beaches, which are protected with shark nets and lifesavers patrol between 8am – 5pm. On the seaward side are many amusement parks, Funworld with bumper-cars, an aerial cableway, craft sellers, restaurants and a continuous row of hotels, apartments on the other side. Along the promenade visitors find the brightly decorated rickshaws with their drivers festooned in beads and tall, elaborate headdresses. A must visit is the uShaka Marine World.  After hours, the Golden Mile waterfront comes into its own and visitors may experience the Entertainment World complex and the Suncoast Casino.
 

Valley of Thousand Hills and visit to cultural villages

This area of KwaZulu-Natal is named after the thousands of hills which tumble down to the mighty Umgeni River. View the magnificent scenery with unspoilt nature and wildlife. The hills are covered with traditional (beehive) Zulu homes while along the spine of the Valley you will find colonial buildings.

Cultural Villages

PheZulu Safari Park: 

Visit this Zulu village with its beehive huts where the Gasa clan will explain their beliefs, rituals and artifacts. The will also entertain you with their traditional dancing. A 3hr drive exploring the valley and meeting Zulu folk in their own homes is also offered by the park as well as an excursion to view the wild animals. Visit the Reptile Farm to see the crocodiles and the collection of snakes.

Isithumba Village:

This Zulu cultural village is situated next to the Umgeni River. Share a meal in the homes of the Zulu folk and hear more about their traditions. 

Izimtaba Cultural Village:

Zulu dancing and cultural shows take place three times a day.