IOL Travel - March / April 2022 - The Easter Holiday Guide

IOL

TRAVEL MARCH/APRIL 2022

The Easter

holiday guide BOUGHT TO YOU BY TOURISM KZN... PROUDLY SOUTH AFRICAN

Tourism in KZN is set to rise and shine this Easter

by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala EASTER 2022 has sparked hope for a massive tourism boom following the termination of the state of disaster and the lifting of most COVID-19 restrictions. Tourism in KwaZulu-Natal is undoubtedly ready to rise and shine.

The surge in tourism-related bookings at hotels, selfcatering facilities, game parks, holiday resorts, and airlines is the silver lining around the dark memories of the pandemic.

Now more than ever, we are in a period of rebirth and renewal. We can see the green shoots on the horizon.

We are witnesses to much greenery all around. Flowers are in full bloom. And there is restlessness and passion among those who yearn to travel to KwaZulu-Natal again, to enjoy the majestic views of the Drakensberg Mountain range, to see the Big Five and other wildlife in HluhluweiMfolozi Park, to go up Sani Pass, to bathe in the warm waters of the beaches on Durban’s Golden Mile and visit the relics of the great battles in our history.

Tourism product owners are looking forward to a bumper Easter after sustaining massive losses since the lockdown in March 2020. These losses have affected millions of livelihoods who rely upon a thriving travel and tourism sector, while significantly affecting the global economy and development.

But we are optimistic that business is recovering in sectors like travel that suffered greatly during lockdowns and are looking forward to a year of positive growth.

As thousands of holidaymakers descend on KwaZulu-Natal this Easter season, KZN’s provincial destination marketing organisation, Tourism KwaZuluNatal, is encouraging holidaymakers and the tourism sector at large to adhere to health and safety protocols and to take advantage of the health benefits of vaccination. As the provincial government, we have a vested interest in ensuring the wellbeing of everyone and a full recovery of the tourism sector.

Now that South African Airways, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways and Emirates have resumed their direct flights from King Shaka International Airport, this will provide more opportunity for trade, tourism and business travel in the province. The reintroduction of flights by SAA between Durban and Johannesburg will see many inlanders making a quick trip to the KZN coastal resorts where they can breathe the fresh air without having to wear a mask outdoors.

The opening of tourism is also seeing a resurgence in sporting activities which also brings in tourists. This year, Africa’s premier horse-racing event, the Durban July, will be a fully live event with a record stake of R5 million.

The Comrades Marathon will also be run later this year after two years of quiet and will see many international visitors arriving in the province. The MICE industry will also add to the leisure activities. Keeping the economy of the province turning will help not only to sustain jobs but to create much-needed jobs especially for women and the youth.

While climbing mountains, admiring flora and fauna and sunbathing on the beach are great ways to relax, visitors will discover that KZN is also a haven for arts and crafts which are also popular export products.

Immerse yourself in Zulu culture by learning traditional craft skills and creating an original object. The diverse culture of the people of KwaZulu-Natal and their hospitality are equal to none and priceless.

Tourism KZN is also getting ready for Africa’s Travel Indaba, one of the top three “must visit” marketing events of its kind on the global calendar which attracts about 7 000 delegates. It showcases the widest variety of Africa’s best tourism products and attracts international buyers and media from across the world. After a two-year absence, we cannot wait to welcome Africa and the rest of the world to the continent’s premier travel trade expo at the Durban ICC from 2 to 5 May. While Easter will be a period for religious pilgrimages for some; and fun, festivities and feasting for others, we also urge tourists to be safe and responsible and to adhere to the rules of the road to ensure safe travel. Please refrain from drinking and driving, driving recklessly, driving at excessive speeds and texting and driving. We are ready to enforce the law and will take punitive measures against traffic law violators.

We continue to call upon the people of KwaZuluNatal to stand up against crime. We implore them to be counted as whistle-blowers against crime. Working together, we can create a safe, peaceful province for the people of KwaZulu-Natal and our visitors. We must do everything to prevent criminals from ruining the experiences of tourists in KwaZulu-Natal.

Finally, on behalf of the provincial government and the people of KwaZulu-Natal, we wish to extend a warm embrace to all holidaymakers. We welcome those who will be visiting during this special long weekend of prayer, reunions and vacation. May you enjoy all our special tourism offerings. We hope to see you again and again throughout the year because KZN is poised to meet and exceed all your expectations.

Editor’s note

Contents Enjoy a farmland jaunt on the KZN South Coast Wild luxury: Safari on a budget South Africa’s top 10 hiking routes 4 KZN holiday adventures off the beaten track Splish splash! Fun for all the family at a water park Family-friendly things to do in Ballito

PUBLISHER Vasantha Angamuthu vasantha@africannewsagency.com

PRODUCTION Renata Ford renata.ford@inl.co.za

EDITOR Sacha van Niekerk sacha.vanniekerk@inl.co.za

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Keshni Odayan keshni.odayan@inl.co.za

DESIGN Tanya Fynn tanya.fynn@inl.co.za

SALES Charl Reineke charl.reineke@inl.co.za

EXECUTIVE LIFESTYLE EDITOR Buhle Mbonambi buhle.mbonambi@inl.co.za

ENQUIRIES hello@africannewsagency.com

THERE’S a lot to love about this time of the year, especially when it comes to local travel. The air is fresh, the sun is out and, with so many public holidays and long weekends, it’s the perfect time for a much-needed break after what has been a whirlwind start to 2022.

In this latest edition of IOL Travel’s digital magazine, we've focussed on a variety of outdoor experiences, including off-the-beatenpath adventures and family-friendly activities to enjoy over the holiday weekends.

With so much natural beauty on offer in South Africa, we’re also shining a spotlight on the great outdoors. After all, there’s nothing like the simple pleasure of breathing in the fresh forest air, soaking up some vitamin D and enjoying the magnificence of marvellous mountains, oceans and thriving flora and fauna.

From the top 10 hiking routes across the country to the biggest bucket list activities you need to be ticking off in this lifetime, the province of KwaZuluNatal is highlighted in numerous features, for its versatility.

As a KZN local, I’ve experienced much of what the province has to offer. Whether you're looking for a countryside escape or something memorable the kids will love, it’s an all-rounder as far as adventure, fun and views are concerned.

So, dear readers, pack your bags, slap on some SPF and round up the family for some good old-fashioned outdoor fun.

Sacha

Enjoy a farmland jaunt on the KZN South Coast SACHA VAN NIEKERK

WHILE the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast is known for its Blue Flag beaches and world-class water sports, the picturesque inland region also has a number of renowned tourist sites.

In February, the Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT) debuted its novel KZN South Coast Agri-CULTURE Tours in an effort to boost tourism in the hospitable farmlands.

“This is such a wonderful initiative that is expanding the geographical footprint of the tourism offerings within the paradise of the Zulu Kingdom,” said Phelisa Mangcu, CEO of USCT. “We have worked closely with these tourism establishments to formalise the Agri-CULTURE Tours so that our visitors are treated to a completely unique experience and quality service.

“We’re excited to launch this project which is mutually beneficial for our welcome guests and our vibrant tourism establishments, and we look forward to growing this in future.”

The 6 stops on the Agri-CULTURE Tours

1. BBS FARM (SOUTHPORT)

BBS Farm, named after its founders Busisiwe, Bongi, and Slindile, is a women-owned business that began as a subsistence endeavour and has grown into a global commercial enterprise.

The farm produces green peppers, bananas, tomatoes, and macadamia nuts, and the crew comprises of over 40 employees. The following are some of the activities available at BBS Farm: l Farm tours showcasing the organically-grown produce; a tour of the hydroponic system that waters the world-class tomato selection (including the Heritage tomato!); and a macadamia tour of this burgeoning production. l Fishing for carp, tilapia and bass at the dam. l Grabbing a bite and a coffee while enjoying some great views.

079 568 1815, email bbsfarm568@gmail.com or find ‘BBS Farm’ on Facebook.

2. ANIMAL FARM AT B’S GUESTHOUSE (HARDING) B’s Guesthouse is a small bed & breakfast located just outside of Harding. It's a great place for families to stop for an overnight stay or a quick stop on their way to the Eastern Cape or Durban. Brigitte (Bee) Buhr transformed the B&B from a sugar plantation farmhouse into a cosy fine-dining facility.

Among the things to do are: l Grabbing a bite to eat at the fully-licensed bar and restaurant with soul-renewing vistas. B's Guesthouse offers farm-to-table South African cuisine with a German twist. l Hike amid the macadamia trees or go fishing at the fully stocked dam. l Meet emus, Bun Bun the bunny, and Hamlet the lovely potbellied pig at the animal farm.

076 650 4587, bsguesthouse. co.za, email bgh@vodamail.co.za

3. UBUMBANO HOMESTEAD (AMANDAWE)

The Zama family founded this agricultural co-operative as a mixed farming business on a smallholding in 2017. The high demand for its high-quality products drove a shift to commercial farming, which resulted in the establishment of a profitable retail industry.

Sugarcane, macadamia nuts, bananas, spinach, sweet potatoes, mielies, and green beans are all grown in controlled environments.

Among the things to do are: l Farm tours of this coastal land to witness growing techniques, harvesting and a chance to sample fresh produce. l Purchasing some homemade eats from the farm stall and enjoying a picnic under the trees. l Shopping at Ubumbano Farm Stall which stocks freshly-made macadamia nut and rocket pesto, macadamia nut biscuits and brittle, baked mielie loaf and steamed mielie bread. There’s also locallymanufactured arts, crafts and other memorabilia in the Curio Shop.

039 976 7668, 081 508 7672 or ubumbanoagricoop@gmail.com.

4. BEAVER CREEK COFFEE ESTATE (PORT EDWARD)

This is the world’s southernmost coffee estate, with three generations of coffee producers on this plantation, which thrives on the Arabica cultivar. Beaver Creek's coffee is single-origin, with a distinct, down-to-earth flavour reminiscent of the KZN South Coast. Among the things to do are: l The Crop to Cup walkabout tour starts at 10am, 12pm and 2pm in season (15 December to 5 January) giving a behind-the-scenes look at the coffee production process. l Grabbing a bite at the Beaver Creek Coffee Estate Café which serves breakfasts, snacks, cakes and baked goods. l Biking along some of the best mountain biking trails. The 400 Chocochino Route for the little

Animal Farm at B’s Guesthouse

Mac Banana

Beaver Creek Coffee Estate

ones; the 2.5-kilometre Espresso Route; and the 8.5km Stoney Creek Route.

039 311 2347/15, beavercreek. co.za, email info@beavercreek. co.za

5. MAC BANANA (PORT EDWARD)

This is a one-of-a-kind family-friendly retail and entertainment centre with over 20 outdoor adventure activities to keep parents and kids entertained. Among the things to do are: l Grabbing a bite at one of four restaurants: The Banana Café Pancake, Fazenda Restaurante, Route 61 Ice Cream Shoppe, and Magnifico Pizzeria. l Mac Chimp & Zee and Mac

Mac Banana

Conquer is a rope adventure park with a combination zip line/obstacle course. l Mac Farmyard and Mac Butterflies have farm animals, pony rides and a butterfly farm. l Enjoy adrenaline-fuelled fun at Mac Quads, Mac Archery & Airgun Range, and Mac Paintball. l Playing a round of mini putt-putt at Mac Venture Golf.

039 319 1033 / 039 319 1454, macbanana.com, macbanana22@ gmail.com.

6. MPENJATI COFFEE (MPENJATI/MUNSTER)

Leigh and Des Wichmann began growing coffee on their Jericho Farm in Munster about five years ago, with

processing done at their Larkfield Farm.

The couple has started brewing some of the best coffee blends in the region, and visitors are allowed to watch the process from seed to cup.

The farm is a sight to behold, with gorgeous coffee plants growing alongside the Mpenjati River.

Among the things to do are: l Grabbing a bite and a cup of locally brewed coffee at the café. l Taking a tour of the farm to view the pulping, drying, hulling, separating, grading and roasting of the coffee.

083 440 4431, mpenjaticoffee. co.za.

WILD luxury

Yes, you can go on a safari getaway on a budget Sacha van Niekerk

Muluwa Lodge

Moya Safari Villa

NOTHING quite compares to the thrill of rattling over dirt roads in a 4X4, but with costs extending beyond just the exquisite accommodation, all-inclusive cuisine, and wildlife excursions, they certainly don’t come cheap.

For South Africans looking to tick a bush adventure off their bucket lists, self-proclaimed “safarireviewer”, Mary-Jane Mphahlele (or @maryjaneexplores as she’s known to her nearly 30K Twitter followers), has put together a thread of affordable holidays under R3 000 for a two-night stay.

Leopard’s Lair Bush Lodge www.leopardslairbushlodge.co.za A place to experience the Lowveld like never before.

“Leopard’s Lair Bush Lodge is situated in the Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate and offers guests an exciting

bushveld experience. @ R1 570 (for) two nights,” said Mphahlele.

The Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate is 400ha of beautifully maintained bushveld, with hiking and cycling trails, bird hides, and game drive routes, allowing you to enjoy the myriad natural treasures that thrive in the area.

The Greater Kruger National Park is less than 1km from the resort, so you may hear lions roaring and hyenas screeching at night.

Raptors Lodge raptorslodge.co.za Raptor’s Lodge is a luxurious, private, self-catering establishment.

“An absolute stunner! Raptor’s Lodge is situated on the border of Hoedspruit and 31.4km from Orpan gate, Kruger National Park,

offering an ideal self-catering getaway for safari enthusiasts at R2 000 for two nights.” Each unit has two luxury bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and luxury outside showers, one room with a super king bed and the other with two single beds.

Southern Sands Eco Lodge www.instagram.com/southern_ sands_ecolodge/ Glamping describes a style of camping with at-home comforts and, in some instances, resort-style services not traditionally associated with camping.

“There is something enchanting and very real about an African safari experienced in a luxury safari tent. Southern Sands Eco tents offer the most affordable safari tents in SA at R1 631 for two nights,” she said.

Ndhula Luxury Tented Lodge

Mountain View SafariLodge

Leopard’s Lair Bush Lodge

Mountain View Safari Lodge mountainviewsafarilodge.com Mountain View has just two private camps within the stunning Ndlovumzi Nature Reserve., giving their guests a true sense of solitude and exclusivity. Both are totally solar-powered, have spectacular mountain views, and are surrounded by Lowveld bush with no fences.

Mphahlele had rave reviews: “I’d pay double the amount to stay here. Absolutely gorgeous! Mountain View Safari Lodge is a privately owned 21ha property and is situated deep in the African bush within the Olifant’s river. R2 850 for two nights.”

Moya Safari Villa moyasafarivilla.co.za Moya Luxury Bush Villa is situated in the Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate, close to the charming town of Hoedspruit. Commenting on the spacious lodging, Mphahlele said: “Flowing, open-plan living and dining areas open out onto wooden decks with unsurpassed views of the African bush. moyasafarivilla is a perfect base for visiting Kruger National Park, panorama scenic route, Big 5 open vehicle safaris, Big 5 walks at R2 890 for two nights.”

Ndhula Luxury Tented Lodge ndhula.co.za Some bush retreats are more about peace and tranquillity than animal spotting. At Ndhula Tented Lodge, Mphahele said: “If you’re not so crazy about the Big 5, you can get to spot some wild animals on the property, excluding predators. Ndhula Lodge is located in White River and has a restaurant, a shared lounge, bar and garden. Rates start at R2 071, including breakfast & dinner.”

Muluwa Lodge muluwa.co.za Upon your arrival, the sounds and fragrances of the bush waft gently into a vast thatched restaurant.

An expansive wooden terrace leads down to an infinity pool with unparalleled views of the lowveld’s rolling hills and valleys. Muluwa lodge offers superb African luxury and accommodation paired with their warm and genuine hospitality. “Another affordable stunner on the list.” Rates start from R2 933 for two nights per person.

Kuwisa Lodge kuwisa.co.za Kuwisa Lodge is located in Bookenhoutplaats, Mabalingwe Nature Reserve, in the shadow of the beautiful Waterberg Mountains. Mabalingwe is malariafree, unspoiled bushveld in the Bela-Bela district with undulating hills, stunning landscapes, dams, rich birdlife, and 36 kinds of wild animals, including the Big 5. According to Mphahlele, photos don’t do this place justice as Kuwisa Lodge is one of the province’s jewels. “This is an Out of Africa experience where you can escape to a luxurious privately owned bush lodge.

Rates from R1 695,” she shared.

KZN

KZN

Raptors Lodge

South Africa’s top 10 hiking routes SACHA VAN NIEKERK

FOLLOWING a period of unfulfilled wanderlust and an increase in outdoor sports and activities, a new study reveals the greatest countries in the world for hiking vacations now that many travel restrictions have been abolished.

To highlight how a walking holiday can be the perfect way to explore a new destination and get off the beaten track, SportsShoes. com created a unique index to crown which countries offer the best holiday hikes – reviewing the number of hiking related Instagram hashtags and Google searches for popular walking destinations globally.

These are the top 10 hiking trails in SA: Rustig Hiking Trail, Gauteng Enjoy the magnificent views from the Magaliesberg mountains while on the Rustig Hiking Trail. The 11,9km hike is a popular loop trail with terrain that boasts wonderful

wildflowers and lush greenery. It is rated as strenuous as some areas can be quite challenging and steep at certain points. However, you have the option to choose to hike, walk, run, or simply enjoy the bird watching and scenery.

Krom River Trail, Western Cape Some of the most breathtaking hiking paths in the Western Cape can be found in the Limietberg Nature Reserve in the Du Toitskloof mountains near Paarl. The 6,9 km Krom River Trail is one of them.

It follows the river up the valley, and as it careens up onto the hill, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the mountain ranges.

Along the walk, there are a few swimming spots to cool off in.

Phaladingwe Hiking Trail, North West The track winds through high mountain trails, open grassland, a forested riverine with natural freshwater springs, and open

grassland with spectacular views of the Magaliesburg ranges. At 6,9km the loop trail is rated as moderate in difficulty. You might also be able to spot impala, kudu, nyala, mountain reedbuck, eland, bushbuck and duiker.

Fanie Botha Hiking Trail, KwaZulu-Natal The Fanie Botha Hiking Trail is hailed for being one of South Africa’s top hiking trails. It’s in the Sabie region of the Drakensberg escarpment, and hikers can enjoy beautiful views of a variety of landscapes. At 45km long, hikers will pass through pine plantations, native woodlands, and waterfalls on their way to the trailhead.

Mount Moodie and the Mac Mac Pools, as well as Lone Creek, a national monument, are the main attractions. The region is also rich in birdlife so keep your eyes peeled.

The Otter Trail, Western Cape The Otter Track is a hiking

trail situated along South Africa’s Garden Route coast and is named for the Cape clawless otter that lives there. The 45km route stretches between the Storms River mouth and Natures Valley and takes 5 days and 4 nights to complete.

Hikers must bring their own food and equipment. The walk offers spectacular vistas, white sand beaches, stunning cliffs, and an infinite stretch of coastline. There are tricky river crossings as well as some high climbs and descents.

Magoebaskloof Hiking Trail, Limpopo On the path to Tzaneen in Limpopo, the Magoebaskloof Hiking Trail is located in the Magoebaskloof forest near the village of Hanaertsburg. It’s a treasure trove of native forest, pine plantations and streams and waterfalls. At 40km long, it’s fortunate that there are numerous cabins to choose from along the way, allowing hikers to spend

anywhere from one to five days exploring a variety of circuits.

Kloof Corner Ridge, Western Cape This 3,1km trail necessitates the use of chains and is not recommended for those who are afraid of heights. It is not clearly marked in some places, therefore it is highly recommended to travel with a guide or someone who is familiar with the area. The path begins on Table Mountain’s extreme west side and ascends an exhilarating course to a classic crest with amazing views of Lion’s Head, Cape Town City Bowl, Camps Bay, and the Twelve Apostles.

Tugela Falls Hike, KwaZulu-Natal Tugela Falls Hike via Sentinel Peak is a 11,7km trail. It offers visitors breathtaking views of the Drakensberg Amphitheatre and the Tugela Falls. The chain ladders aid your climb as you look out over the valley floor, almost 1km below. At

times you’ll find yourself high above the valley, while at others you’ll be hidden by jungle.

Leopard’s Kloof, Western Cape Leopard’s Kloof Trail is a 2,7km trail that starts at the botanical gardens in Betty’s Bay and takes you through an indigenous forest to a beautiful waterfall. Every turn of the trail is spectacular, with intriguing rocks and vegetation, and numerous waterfalls and pools.

Prepare to traverse rocky terrain.

Outeniqua Trail, Western Cape The 108km Outeniqua Trail is a hike that runs between George and Knysna through the Outeniqua Forest, and it's one of the greatest ways to see the Garden Route.

The majority of the 103km route runs through indigenous forest.

On hot days, the waters alongside the path offer the much-welcomed opportunity to cool off and picnic on the riverbanks.

4 KZN HOLIDAY ADVENTURES OFF THE BEATEN TRACK ALYSSIA BIRJALAL

Kosi Forest Lodge Stargaze at the Drakensberg Mountain Retreat

Rovos Rail, KwaZulu-Natal

uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park

THE past two years have had a profound impact on the way we view life. Health, happiness and positivity are becoming extremely important again as we move forward into 2022.

One way of attaining these goals is to get outdoors and reconnect with ourselves, our families, and experience new places and things.

While most people gravitate toward South Africa for popular attractions like Kruger National Park, Robben Island and Table Mountain, there’s more to this country to explore, especially in KwaZulu-Natal.

Here are four unique, quirky, and adventurous KZN holiday ideas which combine the great outdoors with an appreciation for nature and a sense of adventure.

Hike in the uKhahlambaDrakensberg Mountains, KwaZulu-Natal Located two hours from Durban in the eastern coastal province of KwaZulu-Natal, uKhahlambaDrakensberg Park is part of a Unesco World Heritage site filled with breathtaking hiking trails, waterfalls, and a high concentration of rock and cave art thousands of years old.

The uKhahlamba, or the “barrier of spears” in Zulu, is comprised of caves and rock shelters with more than 35 000 paintings by ancient San bushmen. Drakensberg Nature Reserve is also home to wildlife, including the bearded vulture, black eagle, grey rhebok, oribi and eland.

Journey in luxury on Rovos Rail, KwaZulu-Natal Take a ride from Durban to Pretoria on the “most luxurious train in the world”. Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences. In a series of bespoke train journeys lasting from 48 hours to 15 days, Rovos Rail links some of the continent’s greatest destinations with a variety of off-train excursions.

Step aboard the vintage woodpanelled coaches and sit back as some of the most varied scenery imaginable unfolds beyond the windows.

With discreet and friendly service, top cuisine and a selection of South Africa’s finest wines, Rovos Rail harks back to a simpler, more elegant era, encompassing the timeless grace and high romance of African exploration. iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal The Kosi Forest Lodge is secluded in a sand forest on the banks of a placid lake, and is the only private lodge in the Kosi Bay Nature Reserve. This wetland wilderness is a treasured part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Enjoy canoe and boat trips in a magical water world, walks through pristine raffia forests, and day trips to breathtaking coastal beaches.

Eight thatch and canvas cabins are set in a forest of fig and milkwood trees, and have romantic open-air bathrooms. There is limited electricity, candlelight creating a warm and romantic atmosphere reminiscent of wild Africa long ago.

Stargaze at the Drakensberg Mountain Retreat Star gazing has not always been viewed as a tourist attraction but is slowly becoming more popular.

The Northern Drakensberg is ideal because of the wide open spaces and lack of artificial lighting.

Depending on the time of year and if the weather is clear, one will be able to spot globular and open clusters of stars, planets, gas clouds and sometimes even a galaxy.

Splish splash!

The season of long weekends, school holidays and the final weeks of warm weather is upon us. If you’re looking for fun activities the whole family will love, look no further than a water park.

SACHA VAN NIEKERK

Western Cape

Gauteng

Kwazulu-Natal

Wiesenhof Adventure Park Where: Stellenbosch Cost: R95 to R195 per person Visit: wapark.co.za WaPark is perfect for keeping the whole family entertained. Over 70 built-in braais in a beautiful natural setting, six swimming pools, eight exciting water slides with tubes to use.

There is also a range of other non-water park related activities to explore such as an aerial obstacle course, trampoline park, climbing wall and much more.

Happy Island Water World Where: Krugersdorp Cost: R220 per person Visit: happyislandsa.co.za Happy Island Waterworld measures 20 000m2 and features hydraulic machinery that produces ocean-like waves at regular intervals. It also features two massage pools where guests can unwind while being gently massaged in the cool water. These pools are not heated, perfect for a refreshing dip. If you prefer a pool for doing laps or floating about, there’s also one on-site. There are areas around the park for guests to picnic.

Wild Waves Water Park Where: Wild Coast Cost: R200 for adults, R75 for kids Visit: suninternational.com Wild Coast Sun has many water activities, but none are as much fun as the Wild Waves Water Park, which is free to guests staying at the hotel. The 10 000m² water adventure park boasts six rides, as well as the Lazy River ride that snakes through the playground and a Kid’s Zone for small children.

Muizenberg Water Slides Where: Muizenberg Cost: R55 for 1-hour pass Visit: muizenbergslides.co.za/ Muizenberg Water Slides is a trio of water slides located on Muizenberg Beach. There’s the main slide, with all of its twists and turns; then there’s the ‘speed’ slide, which provides a rapid and exciting rush, and finally, there’s the ‘junior’ slide, which is designed exclusively for children. Their pools are also solar heated.

Graceland Water and Kids Playground Where: Paarl Cost: Day Visitors Rates, R50 per child (ages 3 – 17 years), R60 per adult, R50 per pensioner Visit: graceland-venues.co.za/ water-kids-playground Graceland provides a one-ofa-kind experience for youngsters and adults. Bring a picnic basket for a great day in the sun. Their water park is decked out with slides, a splash pad, pools, and a fantasy play area for toddlers.

GOG Lifestyle Park Where: Lanseria Cost: R150 per person Visit: gog.co.za GOG Lifestyle Park Lanseria has something for everyone. For refreshing pool time fun, you can enjoy time at Spray Park, an inflatable pool equipped with awesome hamster balls to tread water in. Not a fan of the pool?

There’s also a BMX track, kids pump track, and a climbing wall, to name just a few of the attractions.

Wet ’n Wild Where: uShaka Marine World Cost: R157 per person Visit: ushakamarine.com/ wetnwild uShaka’s Wet ’n Wild is perfect for adrenaline junkies and those who prefer to soak up the sun. One of the newest additions to the park is the the Body Tornado which will take your breath away. Prepare to fly through the tunnel before spiralling around the tornado bowl and into the pool below. The Jika Jika is designed for groups of people who wish to share the experience together. There are plenty of spaces to picnic with a range of restaurants on-site too.

Cedar Junction Where: Pretoria Cost: R120 per adult, R100 per child from 2-12yrs Visit: cedarjunction.co.za Cedar Junction is located on Lynnwood Road, Zwavelpoort. The park is an outdoor grassed area of 8,5ha with stunning views of the lake and the Bronberg Mountain range. They offer four sets of swimming pools and 16 water slides, catering to both young and old. Three 100m speed slides are located at the park’s back, while a baby swimming pool with slides and larger children’s slides are located in the centre. The lazy river, which has three slides, is located in the park’s front area.

Ballito Ski Park Where: Ballito Cost: Prices range from R70 to R300 depending on the activity.

Visit: ballitoskipark.co.za Ballito Ski Park is the place to go for a full day of fun. Skiing, jetskiing, tubing, slip ’n’ slides, and even the gigantic Viking slide are all available.

For more advanced skiers, there are slider rails and kicker ramps. If you’re looking to chill out, Lumo Beach, a man-made beach, is small but has everything a beach should have: enticing waves, white beaches, and umbrellas.

Paintball and archery tag are also available for those seeking an out-of-the-water activity.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY THINGS TO DO IN

Holla trails | Jon Ivins

BALLITO

Flag Animal Farm

Flag Animal Farm

A short drive from Durban is Ballito, a family-friendly destination worth exploring if you are visiting the city. Here are 8 family-friendly things to do while you’re there TRAVEL REPORTER

Flag Animal Farm If you or your kids love animals, head to Flag Animal Farm in northern KwaZulu-Natal. The Durban attraction is dubbed one of the best animal farm experiences.

Home to more than 1000 animals, birds, reptiles, wolves and alpacas, the Ballito attraction offers daily shows, including reptile interactions, a milking show and wolf interaction. There are also outdoor areas for kids to play.

Visit flaganimalfarm.co.za/ Sugar Rush Park and Jump Park Sugar Rush Park incorporates adventure, adrenaline and family fun. Attractions include paintball, a reptile park and petting zoo, a trampoline park and a spa for the moms. Visit sugarrush.co.za or thejumppark.co.za Holla Trails at Sugar Rush Sugar Rush Park also has Holla Trails, a vast series of trails for mountain bikers or trail runners from entrylevel to experienced. The trails cross through the neighbouring farms with many places to stop, rest and take in the scenery. Visit sugarrush.co.za Monkeyland-KZN Discover different species of exotic monkeys at this freeroaming primate sanctuary. The organisation aims to educate and foster a greater understanding of primates and the challenges they’re facing. Guests can enjoy a guided walking tour while spotting capuchin monkeys, ringtail and black-and-white ruffed lemurs, buff-cheeked gibbons, squirrel monkeys, black howler monkeys and spider monkeys. Visit monkeylandkzn.co.za

Luthuli Museum Luthuli Museum, a national cultural institution, preserves the philosophies and legacy of the Nobel laureate, the late Chief Albert Luthuli. The tour starts with a 15 minute video of his life, followed by a tour of the property.

The guide shares insight into his days as a struggle icon. There is a life-size wax sculpture of Luthuli at his desk where travellers can snap selfies with the late struggle hero’s statue. Visit luthulimuseum.org.za Burnedale Farm and Nursery This is a beautiful venue where visitors can enjoy a great meal at the café and indulge in some high-end retail therapy while the little ones run freely around the farm, exploring the playground and meeting the many farm animals. Visit the ‘Burnedale Farm’ Facebook page.

Crocodile Creek Crocodile Creek is home to more than 6 000 Nile crocodiles, alligators, snakes and other crocodilian species.

There’s a curio shop and a great restaurant overlooking the crocodiles’ den. Visit crocodilecreek.co.za The Market at Lifestyle Centre If you enjoy artisanal food and a great shopping experience, head over to The Market eatery at the Lifestyle Centre. This alfresco-style shopping centre has a range of stores to browse, and a wonderful range of quality food options suited to all tastes. Visit ballitolifestylecentre.co.za

Bumper Easter weekend expected for Durban this year

DOUBLE visitor numbers are anticipated for the Easter Weekend this year compared to 2021.

According to projections, over 86 000 holidaymakers are expected to flock to Durban during the Easter period from April 14-18. Projections indicate that anticipated visitor spend will be around R160 million and contribute about R400m to the province’s gross domestic product while creating about 800 employment opportunities.

In 2021, 46 000 visitors explored the city during Easter.

The city is implementing measures to ensure visitors have a memorable stay, such as entertainment in key attraction nodes such as beaches, township and urban eateries to mention a few. Safety measures will also be in place.

Some of the exciting activities on offer over the Easter period include the Aliwal Shoal Reef which is just off the coast of Umkomaas which boasts beautiful corals, reef fish, turtles, and offers shark cage diving and scuba diving. They also have accommodation available.

Local tour guides are available to take visitors on a tour of Inanda, Ntuzuma or KwaMashu. Here they can take a helicopter ride to see the magnificent Inanda Dam against the backdrop of the Matata mountains. Or they can fall in love with nature with the Durban Green Corridors hiking trails.

Florida Road offers a vibrant and joyful nightlife experience. The city also boasts several prestigious hotels such as the Beverly Hills Hotel. For a bit of pampering visit the Mangwanani African Spa. For bird enthusiasts, you can take a trip to the Amanzimtoti Bird Park which has 150 species of birds in the indigenous forest. Relax with a coffee at Bike and Bean or watch the Dolphins or the AmaZulu football club in action.

Head off to the Bat Centre to experience all the city has to offer in music, art, and crafts.

For more information www.visitdurban. travel or follow Durban Tourism across all social media platforms @DBNTourism.

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