Destination Showcase: KwaZulu-Natal Beach, bush and home of The Zulu Nation

Telephone +27 11 219 5600 Facsimile +27 11 268 2010/1 P O Box 987 Northlands 2116 Johannesburg

www.dragonfly.co.za Southern Africa’s Leading Travel Group KWaZulu-Natal - Map of KwaZulu-Natal

Sodwana Bay

H4 Cape Vidal Newcastle

St Lucia

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Tugela Hilton Mooi River H1 S IN H3 A H2 Oyster Box T N U The Airport O Fairmont Zimbali Resort M H3

G R H2 E Umhlanga B Phinda S Rocks H4

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Underberg Illovo Beach

Umkomaas

Scottburgh

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Mtwalume

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Port Shepstone

Margate KWA-ZULU NATAL

Port Edward Cape Vidal

Durban Port Edward

Cape Town

Plettenberg Bay KwaZulu-Natal

Welcome to the Zulu Kingdom or the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal - a spectacular and fascinating multi-cultural destination flanked by the warm Indian Ocean and soaring peaks of the Drakensberg.

KwaZulu-Natal: the coastal iSimangaliso (Greater St Lucia) Wetland Park is a World Heritage Site located due east of pivotal landmarks in Zulu history. KwaZulu-Natal: the mountainous ‘Barrier of Spears’ uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site is adorned with Stone Age cave paintings. KwaZulu-Natal: realm of the legendary Zulu kings and steeped in living Zulu tradition. Photo courtesy of Durban Tourism KwaZulu-Natal: timeless Indian culture in the footsteps of Mahatma Gandhi. KwaZulu-Natal: colonial reminders shoulder-to-shoulder with icons of democracy. KwaZulu-Natal: the gateway city of Durban - a pulsating and inviting fusion KwaZulu-Natal: magnet for thrill-seekers in the of East, West and Zulu motifs overlooking Africa’s great outdoors - from wave riders and hang- busiest picture-postcard seaport. KwaZulu-Natal: gliders, to golfers and mountain bikers. KwaZulu- expansive golden beaches interspersed with Natal South Coast: nature’s annual extravaganza modern resorts. - the unforgettable cast-of-millions Sardine Run. KwaZulu-Natal North Coast: year-round frolicking dolphins plus majestic seasonal whale migrations. KwaZulu-Natal Elephant Coast: Big Five nature reserves amid Zulu customs in Zululand. KwaZulu- Natal Midlands: history-filled towns leading to adventure sports and game viewing, along with outlets for unique arts and crafts. KwaZulu-Natal: Battlefields of yesteryear where Zulu, Boer and British now make pilgrimages of reconciliation. KwaZulu-Natal: a hotbed of live performance and creativity - from progressive theatre to multi-genre music. Photo courtesy of Durban Tourism KwaZulu-Natal Access Information

Most visitors arrive at the newly built Durban King Shaka International Airport, conveniently located on the North Coast and just 25min from Durban city centre. Furthermore the airport is now a gateway to the luxury resorts and northern safari region.

King Shaka services both domestic and international flights. Emirates is the main international airline flying into Durban and there are a host of domestic carriers, such as SAA, BA, Mango, Kulula and 1Time, connecting the province to the rest of the country.

There are direct flights from Johannesburg to Richards Bay Airport, in the north of the province, ideal access to the Big Five Game Reserves, and Pietermaritzburg Airport, a gateway to the Drakensberg and Battlefield regions.

A few of the Private Game Reserves have airstrips for charter flights.

Rovos Rail luxury train offers a regular, 2 night journey between Pretoria and Durban. KwaZulu-Natal Climate Information

KwaZulu-Natal, on the eastern side of South Africa, is bordered by the warm Indian Ocean to the east and the high escarpment of the Drakensberg Mountains to the west. The province has a warm, sub-tropical climate, with temperatures moderated by the expanse of the Indian Ocean.

Summers are hot and humid averaging 28 degrees, and experience the majority of the annual rainfall, while winters, with average temperatures of 23 degrees, are warm, dry and clear. There is occasional frost in the interior and snow often falls in the higher reaches in winter. Winter sunshine averages almost 7 hours a day, some of the highest in the country.

Averages Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

Max Temp°C 27 27 27 25 23 23 22 22 22 23 25 26

Min Temp °C 22 22 22 19 16 16 16 17 17 18 20 21

Max Temp°F 81 81 81 77 73 73 72 72 72 73 77 79

Min Temp °F 72 72 72 66 61 61 61 63 63 64 68 70

Rainfall mm 134 113 120 73 59 28 39 62 73 98 108 102 KwaZulu-Natal Incentive class properties

Hilton Durban | 5* Property | 327 rooms | www.hilton.com

Situated only meters away from the Durban International Convention Center and 1km from the beach, the Hilton Durban hotel puts you in easy reach of downtown Durban’s business district. The King Shaka International Airport is a mere 30min away. Combining elegant, modern comfort with warm, professional service and excellent leisure facilities, allows guests to make the most of their time in the city.

The guest rooms offer a spacious and Unwind by the pool and soak up the sun or head contemporary setting where you can either to the fully equipped fitness center for a workout. relax or work. A stay in an Executive Room or Refuel with a meal in the Rainbow Terrace Suite offers a complimentary breakfast and Restaurant or catch-up with friends, over a drink, refreshments in the Executive Lounge. in Rivets Bar. The hotel offers free WiFi internet access. The hotel, besides being alongside the convention centre, has its own meeting rooms catering for events for up to 400 delegates’ cocktail style. KwaZulu-Natal Incentive class properties

Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani Tower | 4* Property | 743 rooms | www.tsogosunhotels.com

Situated on the spectacular Durban beachfront, Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani is undoubtedly the brightest star on the Golden Mile. The city’s finest beaches lie metres away, from the long boardwalk and many other local attractions. While leisure travellers favour the hotel for its location, family-friendly facilities and attention to detail, business travellers will also find plenty to add to their comfort at this stylish Southern Sun hotel.

A total of 734 rooms are offered within Elangeni & Maharani Tower, to ensure a wide variety of Services and facilities within the rest of the room options to suit your preferences and tastes. hotel are equally designed at enhancing guests’ All spacious en-suite rooms are beautifully sense of comfort. These include no fewer than furnished in a modern style, and are equipped three swimming pools (one heated), two fully with amenities such as air-conditioning, tea and equipped Business Centres, a courtesy shuttle and coffee making facilities, electronic safe, 24-hour diverse dining options across the many excellent room service, porter service, wakeup facility and restaurants found within the hotel grounds. The complimentary WiFi. newly launched Mangwanani Boutique spa will

further enhance your enjoyment.

Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani conference facilities provide the perfect choice for your next meeting or conference. There are 14 venues to choose from, two venues seating 500 people cinema style and one seating 500 people banquet style.

Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani has opened Sky, a spectacular venue on top of the Maharani Tower. With its incredible sea views, Sky can cater for up to 150 people. KwaZulu-Natal Incentive class properties

Audacia Manor | 5* Property | 10 rooms | www.africanpridehotels.com

African Pride Audacia Manor, built in 1928, is a beautifully restored Colonial Mansion on the slopes of Durban’s Berea, in a quiet residential area overlooking the city and the sea. The boutique-style hotel is mere minutes away from the International Convention Centre, the famed ‘Golden Mile’ beachfront and various sport stadiums such as Moses Mabhida, Absa (“Shark Tank”), Kingsmead and Kingspark.

Spacious, individually decorated rooms offer luxury and style with king sized beds and fully appointed bathrooms with separate showers. All A private and exclusive environment, African Pride rooms have air-conditioning, heating, mini-bars, Audacia Manor ensures that business guests receive television with 49 DSTV channels and DVD players. the optimum in service and discretion. Free Wifi internet access is available at the hotel. The Manor House rooms have balconies providing Ascot Conference Room - a naturally light, sun- 180 degree views of the city and the ocean while filled room with original artwork on the walls, the Coach House rooms offer private courtyards creates the perfect back drop while the private with outside spa baths and in-door and out-door courtyard leading off the room makes an ideal showers. setting for tea-breaks (weather permitting). The room can accommodate up to 20 guests classroom style.

For those occasions, when privacy is paramount yet where delegates need to enjoy varying venues, then a key feature of Audacia is the ability to facilitate conferences using different areas of the property from team building and structured events on the lawns through to informal meetings in the Drawing Room and Pool House environment. The graceful Ascot Dining Room has an antique lead stained glass window and doors opening out to a private courtyard. KwaZulu-Natal Incentive class properties

Rovos Rail | 5* luxury train | 36 cabins | www.rovos.com

Whilst not officially a hotel, the Rovos Rail works incredibly well when combined with a beach resort, or safari in KwaZulu–Natal.

The luxury train runs between Pretoria and Durban, in both directions. This three-day journey allows guests to experience the splendour of KwaZulu-Natal; take in the Big Five, visit a battlefields tour with a world-class historian and stop at an unusual African ceramics centre.

Situated on an expansive game farm, Spionkop Experience the Nambiti Conservancy – a Big Lodge – which adjoins an 11 000-acre nature Five private bush retreat set on 20 000 acres of reserve – is the perfect base for exploring the malaria-free bushveld in KwaZulu-Natal. It has mountains, bush, birds and battlefields of the an incredible biodiversity including savannah, region. grasslands, thornveld and tall acacia trees. The Sundays River flows through the reserve and has Ardmore Ceramics is a story about the two 40-metre waterfalls with magnificent ravine whose sense of rhythm, colour, dance and song, bush, home to several rare bird species. as well as the spirit of the African imagination, is exerting its influence on the other continents of the world. Pay a morning visit to this charming centre in the rolling hills of the Midlands before the train makes its way to Durban.

Meals are served in one sitting only in the charming Victorian atmosphere of the dining cars and are complemented by a selection of fine South African wines. An enthusiastic team of chefs is responsible for overseeing the very important task of ensuring guests’ every need is catered for. There’s an accent on fresh local ingredients and traditional dishes, such as game, are a specialty.

The train arrives in Durban at 16h00, enough time to head out to one of the exclusive beach resorts or hotels for an overnight stay. KwaZulu-Natal Incentive class properties

Oyster Box Hotel | 5* Property | 86 rooms | www.oysterboxhotel.com

The Oyster Box Hotel is well situated on the ocean’s edge, a brief 5 minutes’ walk from Umhlanga Village Centre, a mere 15 minutes to the Durban CBD and 20 minutes to King Shaka International Airport as well as numerous stylish shopping centres…yet the hotel still has a feeling of classical charm and elegance.

Nearby tourist attractions of interest to travellers include the Gateway Theatre of Shopping, uShaka Marine World, and Sun Coast casino. antique furnishings have all been retained in their original glory. The décor also makes excellent use With 86 different rooms, suites and a villa to of natural stone and timber, complemented by choose from, The Oyster Box can accommodate calming colours that reflect the soothing shades of the varied individual needs of every visitor. the surrounding ocean and tropical vegetation.

Meticulously refurbished, each room is designed Whether it’s a complimentary glass of Oyster Box’s to provide the utmost comfort and style. All of signature homemade lemonade, cranberry juice the colonial charm has been lovingly preserved or a glass of sparkling wine which welcomes you – the exquisite tiles, murals, paintings and on arrival, a relaxing treatment in the beautifully designed Oyster Box Spa, the chef’s inspired selection of culinary delights, complimentary transfers to the nearby shopping centre, or that long cool cocktail on the Oyster Bar terrace at the end of another blissful day under African skies, there’s no shortage of special moments.

Since it first opening in 1947, the Oyster Box has been offering venues for a variety of events. The hotel can host groups of up to 150 delegate’s theatre style.

The legendary Grill Room with the adjoining Colony Restaurant offers true, fine dining cuisine. KwaZulu-Natal Incentive class properties

Beverly Hills Hotel | 5* Property | 88 rooms | www.tsogosunhotels.com

The sun-drenched coastline of uMhlanga Rocks Durban, is one of the premier coastal locations in South Africa, and sets a spectacularly romantic setting for the Beverly Hills Hotel.

The luxurious Beverly Hills hotel attracts local and international guests who indulge in the near-perfect, sub-tropical weather the region has to offer. The proximity of this hotel to the unspoilt beaches of uMhlanga and surrounding tourist attractions and landmarks makes it the ideal destination for rest, rejuvenation and exploration.

The Beverly Hills Hotel offers two conference Luxurious and spacious, the Beverly Hills Hotel meeting facilities that are ideal for board offers all amenities to ensure a relaxing and meetings, intimate conferences, executive pampering stay. The hotel rooms and suites are meetings or banquets. The Boardroom is fully of a superior standard with uninterrupted sea serviced and seats up to 12 delegates, while The views from the comfort of every room. All rooms Plantation Room accommodates from 25 guests in are fitted with modern finishes in hues of cream a U-shaped conference setup to 50 guests banquet and brown, offering private, en-suite bathrooms, style. air conditioning and modern finishes. All suites The Sugar Club Restaurant boasts unparalleled feature the complimentary services of a butler, on views over the Indian Ocean and a contemporary call 24 hours a day. ambience which provides a unique experience for diners with a taste for the good life. The Sugar Club has been accredited with membership of the Chaine de Rotisseurs, affirming it’s standing as a memorable dining experience.

The swimming pool, overlooking the Indian Ocean, is currently undergoing major renovation. KwaZulu-Natal Incentive class properties

Fairmont Zimbali Resort | 5* Property | 154 rooms | www.fairmont.com

An unspoiled shoreline, rolling hills and lush flora have come to define the Zimbali Coastal Resort. Set along South Africa’s sublime east coast, located between a forest reserve and a shimmering sea, the Fairmont Zimbali Resort’s exquisite natural beauty is dotted with pockets of urban flair and enhanced by the rich Zulu heritage of the KwaZulu-Natal province.

The resort is located a mere 15 minutes from the King Shaka International Airport. The Willow Tree spa includes 9 treatment rooms, as well as steam rooms, separate ladies and gent’s The 154 well-appointed rooms offer gorgeous relaxation lounges and the “Great Room” for after views of the Indian Ocean, oversized verandas, treatment relaxation. and elegant decor of stone, wood and earth tones. All guest rooms offer high-speed internet Fairmont Zimbali Resort offers conference facilities access, large, luxurious bathtubs, video on- for small to large groups of up to 180 guests. demand system, with access to the latest A wide range of audiovisual aids and state-of- movies, games and videos, air conditioning and the-art equipment is available to delegates in multilingual publications and complimentary the Sanderling meeting room or in the Marula newspapers (national or local) available upon Ballroom. request. Two and three bedroomed Villas are also available. The hotel is suitable for a “buy-out” option and is one of South Africa’s true resorts, offering nine contemporary dining and entertainment venues. From a “BBQ around the pool” welcome reception, to a “fine dining dine-around” evening to an elegant gala dinner in the Ballroom, there are many eventing options available to large groups. Guests can also enjoy the numerous restaurants at the adjacent Fairmont Zimbali Lodge. KwaZulu-Natal Incentive class properties

Fairmont Zimbali Lodge | 5* Property | 76 rooms | www.fairmont.com

On KwaZulu-Natal’s Dolphin Coast, under an abundant forest canopy, you will find Fairmont Zimbali Lodge. This is the sister property of Fairmont Zimbali Resort, which is a short golf cart drive away. A 50 hectare reserve within the estate has been demarcated as a conservation area, providing a refuge to the rich variety of local flora & fauna. Pathways and wooden viewing decks throughout these areas allow guests to interact with nature. Zimbali has several natural spring water lakes which create a haven to the 85 species of bird, hosts of butterflies and a wide variety of tones. indigenous plant life. The eastern frontage of Fairmont Zimbali Lodge offers a selection of fine this Durban resort comprises a 3 km stretch dining options at the hotel. The Restaurant and of unspoiled beach, forming a natural golden Fountain Court both offer indoor and outdoor boundary between the rich green forest and the dining amongst a lavish atmosphere. At The warm, blue Indian Ocean. Lounge, guests can enjoy an after dinner nightcap The architectural philosophy preserves and by the warm, inviting fireplace. And finally you enhances the innate harmony of the environment. can indulge in light snacks at the Pool Bar while The 76 guest rooms each complement the natural viewing the magnificent Indian Ocean. Guests surrounding forest, and the classical architecture can also enjoy the numerous restaurants at the is accentuated by warm wood and russet autumn Fairmont Zimbali Resort. The South Africa Conference Centre is beautifully appointed and ideally situated for superb views of the Zimbali Estate and Country Club Golf Course. The Conference centre leads directly from the Ngwenya Terrace. The largest venue can accommodate a maximum of 80 delegates in cinema-style seating. Offering ocean and forest views, water and wetland features and a natural setting, Zimbali Country Club has developed the reputation of a memorable 18-hole golf course. Conveniently situated inside the Zimbali Coastal Resort, guests have easy access to the course and clubhouse. KwaZulu-Natal Incentive class properties

Hotel Izulu | 5* Property | 19 rooms | www.hotelizulu.com

The Hotel Izulu, situated in Ballito on the North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, is a renowned luxury boutique hotel and has been built on what was the home of South Africa’s iconic first Miss World, Penny Rey Coelen

The hotel is a short drive from the beach, ideally situated just 20 minutes from the new King Shaka International Airport and 40 minutes from Durban city centre -ideal for leisure or business guests. The hotel boasts 19 luxurious suites within a contemporary blend of Tuscan architecture, African features and Balinese influences. The different styles of architecture form a convivial The hotel also offers outstanding cuisine at Gigi’s mix, and are most often described as “an African restaurant and a variety of treatments at its award heart with an eastern spirit”. winning Impilo Spa. Hotel Izulu’s warm friendly atmosphere and attentive staff contribute to an Five freestanding villas are spread out in unforgettable experience of relaxation, peace and manicured grounds, surrounding a communal tranquillity. pool. Each villa offers two Executive Suites, two Deluxe Suites, a private courtyard and an 8-seater Hotel Izulu offers an impressive Banqueting Jacuzzi. Hall that can seat up to 150 delegates, plus board-room/U-shape/Cinema/Classroom style conferencing facilities for a range of smaller groups. KwaZulu-Natal Incentive class properties

Thanda Private Game Reserve | 5* Property | 29 rooms | www.thanda.com

Thanda Safari Lodge (9) Thanda Villa iZulu (5) Thanda Tented Camp (15)

Thanda, meaning ‘love’ in Zulu, is an expression of the magical union of the power of Zulu culture, wildlife, romance and exclusivity. Thanda Private Game Reserve is South Africa’s top award-winning safari destination and is situated in northern Zululand, in close proximity to the Indian Ocean. Access by road is from Durban - duration is four surrounded by expanses of African bush, the Royal hours. Alternatively fly into Richards Bay followed Private Villa can accommodate ten guests in five by a 1½ hour road transfer. luxuriously appointed suites. The main lodge encompasses nine bush villas. There are numerous unique activities on-site Circular in structure and reminiscent of a including: traditional homestead, each of the villas boasts Star Gazing - knowledgeable game rangers a breath-taking view of the surrounding game introduce guests to the world of star gazing and reserve. 220 m² in size, each villa has its own the solar system. Bush Breakfast - spacious lounge area and master bedroom with a fantastic way to round off an exciting morning an inter-leading fireplace. A thatched outdoor game drive is with a hearty breakfast served in game-viewing deck (sala) and infinity pool offer the bush. Bush Dinner - guests can get close to refreshing solace from the summer heat nature and enjoy a decadent African bush dinner At the Safari Camp the fifteen new, luxury tents lit by paraffin lanterns and candlelight - perfect each have a viewing deck and an en-suite canvas for a special occasion. Bush Walks - during bush bathroom. Public facilities at the tented camp walks guests have the opportunity to learn all include an attractive reception area, a curio about the fascinating uses of plants in the area shop, a new lounge area for guests to relax in, an and to identify animal spoor. Upon request, guests enhanced dining tent, a 10x5 metre rim-flow pool may also track specific animals, with a ranger’s and a new boma (outdoor dining area). The camp assistance. Game Drives - the best time for game is located 15 minutes from the main lodge. drives is first thing in the morning or late afternoon Thanda’s Royal Private Villa has now been made as animals are more active during the cooler hours available to the public. Fit for royalty and of the day. Game drives are conducted in open- topped Land Rovers, with a maximum of six guests per vehicle. KwaZulu-Natal Incentive class properties

Phinda Private Game Reserve | 5* Property | 61 suites | www.phinda.com

Phinda Mountain Lodge – 25 suites Phinda Forest Lodge – 16 suites Phinda Vlei Lodge – 6 suites Phinda Rock Lodge – 6 suites Phinda Zuka Lodge – 4 cottages Phinda Getty House – 4 suites Pilot rooms - none

Located in KwaZulu-Natal and showcasing one of the continents finest Big 5 game viewing experiences, Phinda is described as “Seven Worlds of Wonder” due to its seven distinct habitats. A magnificent tapestry of woodland, grassland, wetland and forest, interspersed with mountain ranges, river courses, marshes and pans, Phinda has a rich diversity of ecosystems and wildlife. Home to 1000 hectares of Africa’s remaining rare dry sand forest, the Reserve lies in close proximity to the unspoiled beaches and spectacular reefs of the Indian Ocean, offering a unique combination of beach and bush adventure Access by road is from Durban - duration is 4 hours. and an opportunity to see the Leatherback Turtles Alternatively fly into Richards Bay followed by a laying eggs on the beach at specific times of the 1½ hour road transfer. A third option is to charter year. directly to the lodge airstrip from any of the major cities.

Situated in the northern KwaZulu-Natal area, Phinda borders conservation areas such as the Greater St Lucia Wetlands Park – a world Heritage Site.

This unique Reserve has earned prestigious awards and recognition as being one of the world’s premier benchmarks for responsible, sustainable ecotourism. KwaZulu-Natal Highlights

Hluhluwe iMfolozi Game Reserve

Hluhluwe iMfolozi Game Reserve, located 280 km north of Durban (a 3hour drive), is the oldest proclaimed park in Africa. It consists of 960 km² (96,000 ha) of hilly topography in central Zululand, and is known for its rich wildlife and conservation efforts. Hluhluwe is the only state- run park in KwaZulu-Natal where all the Big-Five game occurs. Due to conservation efforts, the park now has the largest population of white iSimiangiliso (St Lucia) Wetlands rhino in the world. Apart from the Big-Five; elephant, rhinoceros The iSimangaliso Wetland Park was listed as South (black/hook-lipped and white/square-lipped), Africa’s first World Heritage Site in December 1999 Cape buffalo, lion, and leopard, it is home to in recognition of its superlative natural beauty and 86 special species including: Nile crocodile, unique global values. hippo, cheetah, hyena, blue wildebeest, jackal, The 332 000 hectare Park contains three major lake giraffe, zebra, waterbuck, nyala, eland, kudu, systems, eight interlinking ecosystems, 700 year old impala, duiker, suni, reedbuck, warthog, bushpig, fishing traditions, most of South Africa’s remaining mongoose, baboons, monkeys, and a variety of swamp forests, Africa’s largest estuarine system, tortoises, terrapins, snakes and lizards. It is one 526 bird species and 25 000 year-old coastal dunes – of the world’s top spots for viewing nyala. The among the highest in the world. park is a prime birding destination and is home to A visit to St Lucia is possible as a day excursion from 340 bird species. Durban. After a scenic drive through Zululand to St Game drives through the park are done in 4x4 Lucia you head for the estuary mouth as the first vehicles. Groups can enjoy lunch at Hilltop Camp stop. A short hike through the game reserve gives or an al fresco BBQ in the reserve at designated you an opportunity to encounter various wildlife and locations. birdlife. After lunch, relax on a boat ride to view crocs, hippos and the African fish eagle amongst many species of birds. You’ll learn about the delicate balance of 5 eco-systems in the area, and many facts about the large and small inhabitants of these regions, before your late afternoon drive back to Durban. “iSimangaliso must be the only place on the globe where the oldest land mammal (the rhinoceros) and the world’s biggest terrestrial mammal (the elephant) share an ecosystem with the world’s oldest fish (the coelacanth) and the world’s biggest marine mammal (the whale)” – Nelson Mandela KwaZulu-Natal Highlights

Shakaland

Shakaland is located approximately 1hr30min drive from Durban. Shaka was the legendary King of the Zulus! Experience traditional Zulu culture and customs at the largest Zulu kraal in Zululand and look into the future with an iSangoma or traditional healer. Sample traditional Zulu beer while the craftsmen and community who make the spears, shields, beadwork, pots and their huts, open their doors to witness their skills and Durban artistry. The Zulu dancers thrill with their grace and energy, and afterwards enjoy a lunchtime Spend half a day discovering the cultural and feast featuring local and international cuisine! historical contrasts of this city. A morning drive Live a day in the life of a traditional community. follows the newly restored Golden Mile, a wonderful For groups there is a modern conference room promenade which stretches along the beachfront, available for up to 100 delegates, and a variety of before moving on to the fascinating KwaMuhle teambuilding opportunities. Museum (closed Sundays) where you can uncover the past, harsh system of labour control. Go ‘green’ thereafter, and head for the lush, peace and tranquillity of Durban’s beautiful Botanic Gardens. Founded in 1849 – the immaculate gardens house a fine mix of African, Asian and American trees, not to mention a superb orchid house. To accompany the exploration of Indian culture and history, try a taste of Indian cuisine, with the unique Bunny Chow! Then proceed to an icon of KwaZulu-Natal, the Moses Mabhida Stadium where you will have the option of experiencing the cable car ride to the top of the Stadium for a phenomenal view of Durban and its surroundings.

For shopaholics, a visit to Victoria Street will awaken the senses with the sights, smells and sounds of a working market. On the other end of the shopping spectrum is Gateway, a huge shopping and entertainment complex. KwaZulu-Natal Highlights

uShaka Marine World

On Durban’s beachfront is Ushaka Marine World! Home to Africa’s largest dolphinarium, the globally respected uShaka Marine World entices you to explore the wonders of Africa’s vast ocean life. It’s a fascinating journey around 30 indoor and outdoor themed exhibits, and you won’t want to miss the spectacular dolphin, seal and penguin shows. In the aquarium, tank after tank offer a glorious insight into the wealth of South Africa’s Drakensberg / Sani Pass Indian and Atlantic Ocean marine life. The beauty of the undulating Drakensberg Mountain range is indisputable, but in addition to travelling The Battlefields through such breathtaking vistas, visit the World Heritage Site of Giant’s Castle and the enigmatic Historians and lovers of a really great story will Bushman paintings in the vicinity. Upon arrival, it is enjoy a visit to the Battlefields. KwaZulu-Natal is a leisurely 3km round hike to the site of the caves, rich in Anglo-Zulu war history, where two of the to discover this magical legacy of the Bushmen most famous, at times heart-wrenching battles, (moderate fitness level required). The paintings fought between the Zulu and British Armies took date back 2000 years. After the hike enjoy a hearty place. Visit the eerie battlefields of Isandlwana lunch. Return to Durban via the charming Midlands and Rorke’s Drift, and let your imagination paint Meander Route, a community of country crafters mental pictures of the battle scenes played out and farmers who produce quality wares and live here. This is approximately two hours driving enviable country lives. from Durban.

Another beautiful area of the Drakensberg to visit is the Sani Pass. The Sani Pass is the only vehicle route over the Drakensberg escarpment and into the mountain Kingdom of Lesotho. It is a spectacular 4x4 track twisting and snaking its way through the rocky cliffs to the top of the world. Before the 1950’s, it was a trail for pack animals to carry goods through to the isolated town of Mokhotlong in Eastern Lesotho. Now, the road carries 4x4 vehicles, though the odd donkey and horse can still be seen plodding slowly up the steep route. Crossing the border at the top of the pass, one enters not only another country (passports required) but another world. KwaZulu-Natal Unique activities

Canoe & Wine Tasting

The Zinkwazi River Estuary is a mere 80km from Durban, on the North Coast. Incorporate a canoe trip on the extremely safe, seven-kilometre lagoon, followed by a wine tasting on the banks of the river.

Start with a safety briefing by professional facilitators then gently paddle along the pristine river banks, home to numerous bird species. On Discover Durban Adventure Rally return, a wine tasting will be setup on the banks of the river. This unique, tailor-made “Discover Durban Rally” starts at the beautifully designed Moses Mabhida Duration of the activity is approximately four Stadium, home to the World Cup Soccer in 2010. hours. The group has an introductory lesson by the Segway Company on how to manoeuvre these two wheeled vehicles. From there, the group is split into two, half doing a Segway Tour of the Stadium and the other half going up the SkyCar for a magnificent view over Durban and the Indian Ocean. They then swap around.

Delegates then each climb onto a bicycle, for a cycle from the stadium along the Promenade, past Sun Coast and to Circus Circus Restaurant. This is an easy 15 minute cycle and ideal way to explore the unique beachfront. After a short break, continue onto uShaka Marine World. Along the way barter with the locals for a traditional Rickshaw ride. On arrival at uShaka there is time at leisure to explore the Aquarium.

The Rally ends at Moyo’s Pier where the group is rewarded with a well-deserved ice-cold drink and a samosa (traditional Indian savoury pastry) tasting. KwaZulu-Natal Unique activities

Surf Lessons

Durban, the birth place of surfing in South Africa, offers numerous, incredible surf breaks in wonderful, tropical, and warm water conditions.

At a highly professional surf school near uShaka Marine World in Durban, get together with your colleagues and tick off that bucket list! Set-up includes gazebos on the beach, with loungers and Shark Cage Diving at Rocky Bay beach chairs, where you can either choose to relax or take part in surfing lessons, beach volley Previously the domain of the Western Cape, Shark ball, body-boarding and kayaking! Suitable for all Cage Diving is now available off the KwaZulu-Natal levels of expertise - from beginners to pros. coastline.

Situated only 60 minutes from King Shaka International Airport, on the KZN South Coast, the boats launch from the safest site on the Natal South Coast - Rocky Bay.

In the warmer waters of KZN Natal, different species of shark can be found like Blacktip sharks, Dusky Sharks, Spinner Sharks, Tiger and Zambezi Sharks as these species are smaller than the Great White Shark and their main diet consists of small schooling fish.

A typical shark cage dive involves getting into a wetsuit or a costume, donning a mask and climbing into a floating stainless steel cage with between five and twenty sharks gliding gracefully by the cage walls. KwaZulu-Natal Eating out

Eating Out!

Due to the complete diversity of cultures in KwaZulu-Natal, many different cuisines are available, from Asian to International. Durban however is most famous for its curries, due to the long tradition of Indian culture. Numerous award winning restaurants serve traditional Indian cuisine.

Even more famous is the Bunny Chow – a half loaf of white bread filled with delicious, hot curry. Also, being a coastal city with the warm Indian Ocean as its shoreline, numerous sunset cruises are available, offering delicious seafood delicacies.

On safari enjoy traditional African BBQ. Many venues play on the colonial past and offer a “slice of Britain in Africa”, with traditional British cuisine and décor.