WELCOME to the KINGDOM

CLINTON MOODLEY

A DESTINATION that has it all. That’s one way to describe KwaZulu-Natal.

With its blue-flag status beaches, safari experiences, exhilarating adventure scene and its rich culture and heritage, there’s something for everyone in the Zulu Kingdom.

Combine all this with its mouthwatering food offerings and you have an award-winning destination waiting to be explored.

Thulisile Galelekile, the general manager for marketing at Tourism KwaZulu-Natal, said KZN is a destination with many wonders.

“We pride ourselves as a destination that has it all. Once you experience the province, nothing compares. It touches your soul and lures you back. There’s something about KZN that makes people come back, which explains the large number of repeat international and local visitors,” she said.

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A traveller needs at least five to seven days to explore the province.

Galelekile suggests travellers hire a car when they visit, which allows them the luxury of exploring the vast province.

“Planning is essential. To immerse yourself in an authentic experience, one should book local guides who can share insight on some of the province’s culture, history and heritage. The guides are fantastic storytellers that will leave you inspired and educated.

“Travellers should also be spontaneous and venture off the beaten path. Sometimes travellers just need to stop, see and embrace what the province has to offer. They will be surprised at the hidden gems they will uncover,” she said.

THE AFFORDABILITY FACTOR

Galelekile said KZN has experiences to suit everyone’s budget, whether you prefer staying in backpackers accommodation, a camp site, hotel or all-inclusive luxury resort. With South African attractions now focusing on domestic tourism, there are plenty of activities one can enjoy for free or at a discounted rate.

The Tourism website, www.zulu.org.za, showcases some of discounted offerings for those thinking of booking a trip.

“Tourism KwaZulu-Natal is working closely with its trade partners to showcase the specials and discounts on offer. These can be found on our social media page and website.

“Now there’s no excuse not to explore our beautiful province,” added Galelekile.

MAKE A SPLASH without burning cash

A DURBAN icon, the legend of the bunny chow is as saucy and peppered with spice as the delectable meal itself.

Some say the now world-famous delight originated on the sugar cane fields of KwaZuluNatal, among the indentured Indian labourers who arrived in South Africa in 1860.

It is said the workers filled hollowed-out loaves of bread with the curry as a convenient way to carry their lunches as they toiled the cane fields.

Another theory is that a restaurant created the bunny chow to serve food to Indian workers who were not allowed to eat in restaurants during apartheid. The meals were served at the back.

Others claim bunny chow was invented for the Indian caddies at the Royal Durban Golf Course.

Caddies were unable to get off from work to eat lunch in the Indian area in Durban’s Grey Street, so families brought in curry from the city and hollowed-out loaves of bread was a way of transporting the curry.

Whatever its origin, the Durban bunny chow is a global culinary legend. Come savour the flavour.

SUGAR & SPICE

simply … breathtaking

Explore Thompson’s Bay and see the Hole In The Wall Cost: Free

Thompson’s Bay is situated on the North Coast of Durban. The stretch of beach is tucked behind holiday homes and resorts, that fall between Ballito and Shaka’s Rock, setting the scene for possibly one of the most stunning beaches. One of the main attractions, apart from the tidal pool and scenery, is the Hole in the Wall. Has an especially wonderful view at sunrise.

From the sweeping views at Lake Eland to the crashing waves viewed from the Hole In The Wall at Thompson Bay Beach – KwaZuluNatal is abound with natural beauty and exciting cultural experiences in which to immerse yourself. Sacha van Niekerk found some budget-friendly gems

Traverse a suspension bridge at Oribi Gorge Cost: R65pp

Surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife, one of the most exhilarating parts of a visit to Lake Eland Game Reserve is getting to walk across their 80m suspension bridge. The views can only be described as awe-inspiring as you get to see the magnificence and grandeur of the Oribi Gorge from a very unique point. Apart from the restaurants and tea garden, there is also a site for picnics and braaing, and the choice of taking a self-guided game drive through one of their various routes.

Discover the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Cost: Adults: R28 Children (under the age of 16): R16 Vehicle entry charge: R29 Community Levy: R5 per person

ISimangaliso Wetland Park is a huge protected area along the coast of KZN. It stretches 220kms from Cape St Lucia to the Mozambique border and is a World Heritage Site. The area is dominated by Lake St Lucia and St Lucia Estuary with its network of coastal lakes, dunes, subtropical forests, swamps and wetland systems that are a haven for indigenous fauna and flora.

Explore nature at the uMhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve Entrance: Free

Tangled branches, wooden walkways that wind through marshy wetland and breathtaking greenery, uMhlanga Lagoon is 26 hectares of nature reserve nestled along the shore of the Indian Ocean. Perfect for groups of people who love the outdoors and who enjoy more of a challenge. The reserve is the ideal destination for bird watching, picnicking, trail running and selfguided walks. Try out their many hiking trails or end your journey with a refreshing dip in the sea by following the route to uMhlanga beach. On your way, don’t forget to keep an eye out for the blue duiker, the smallest antelope in South Africa.