Five things to do in Zululand this winter

With its ideal winter climate, Zululand is the destination of choice for many of our upcountry citizens.

Whether it’s a beach stop, a holiday in one of the local game reserves or just taking in the region’s beautiful scenery, Zululand offers something for everyone.

Here is just a taste of what the region has in store for visitors and locals alike.

1. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

Game viewing is always better done in winter when the days are shorter and cooler, and the animals, especially the predators, are more active.

This Big 5 game reserve is Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife’s flagship reserve, boasting healthy populations of endangered animals such as the African wild dog, among others.

2. Richards Bay dolphin viewing platform

The Bay coastline is the best place in the country for dolphin lovers to view the very rare Humpback dolphin.
Ironically, the Newark Beach shark nets have been identified by scientists as being responsible for the most number of deaths of this rare species.

Zululand has great beach weather all year round, so why not take a stroll down the pier and see if you can spot any of these magnificent creatures.

Alternatively, you can visit https://conservedolphins.weebly.com/ and watch the live streaming video.

3. St Lucia town

Estuary boat cruises where you can get up close and personal with the resident hippos and crocodiles; boat-based whale watching tours to witness the Humpback whale migration; day trips through the Eastern and Western Shores of Lake St Lucia; snorkelling at Cape Vidal, and horse safaris, St Lucia is a hive of activity even in the winter.

4. Zululand Brewery

Located at the George Hotel in eShowe, the Zululand Brewery is the smallest brewery on the KZN Brew Route and well-known for its flagship beer, Zulu Blonde.

Zulu Blonde went international in 2010 when it was voted the number one ale out of 50 at the JD Wetherspoons International Real Ale Festival.

This award won the beer a permanent place in UK pubs.

5. Duma Zulu traditional village

Experience traditional Zulu culture at South Africa’s largest cultural village in Hluhluwe.

Watch locals make spears, shields, baskets and clay pots, or have a one-on-one reading with a sangoma.

Also on the property is a bird and reptile park, housing the largest free-flight aviary in KZN.

The 3 000 square metre aviary includes elevated walkways, waterfall features and seated areas among local flora and fauna.