Kwa Zulu Natal North Coast

KwaZulu-Natal, a coastal South African province, is known for its beaches, mountains and savannah populated by big game. The safari destination Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, in the northeast, is home to black and white rhinos, lions and giraffes. Durban is an Indian-influenced harbor city and a popular surfing spot. Cultural villages around the town of Eshowe showcase the traditions of the indigenous Zulu people.

Things to do

uShaka Marine World

Divided into areas including Sea World and Wet’n’Wild, uShaka Marine World boasts one of the largest aquariums in the world, the biggest collection of sharks in the southern hemisphere, marine animals and exhibits, a mock-up 1940s steamer wreck featuring two classy restaurants, a shopping centre, and enough freshwater rides to make you seasick. There are various options to 'meet' dolphins, seals and rays, but animal welfare groups suggest such interactions create stress for these creatures.

Umhlanga Beach

A favourite holiday destination with locals, Umhlanga’s beaches are packed with both locals and tourists in season (and often out of season as well, thanks to the temperate climate).

Gateway Shopping

The Gateway Shopping Centre is a retail and recreational revolution resident in the holiday town of Umhlanga

Afternoon Tea with Skabenga

Attend afternoon tea at the Oyster Box luxury hotel in Umhlanga and make the acquaintance of Skabenga the cat. Skabenga (“sgebengu” meaning hooligan in Zulu) recently went missing but was found and happily returned. He wandered into the hotel 10 years ago as a stray and has never left, flourishing on prawn tidbits.

Walk on the Sky at Moses Mabhida Stadium

Built for the 2010 Fifa World Cup, the enormous stadium has many adrenaline-inducing activities on offer. The Sky Car, a single cabin that runs up steel tracks on the northern arch of the stadium and is designed to roll down the arch under its own gravity (in case of load shedding), has a 106m vantage point. Tickets cost R60pp and R30 for kids under the age of 12. There’s also the Big Swing ride, the tallest swing in the world since 2011 (at R695 per person it exceeds our budget but is cheaper than skydiving and looks just as nerve-wracking). Then there’s a Big Sky Walk along the arch of the stadium (don’t look down!) or a beach glide on a Segway for those seeking a more serene adventure.

Beach Horse Riding

There’s nothing like a late-afternoon gallop on the beach, kicking up sand and surf at sunset. And if you happen to fall in, the water is inviting and warm

Four Star Hotels

Hilton Durban

The Hilton Durban is an iconic landmark hotel in a supreme location next door to the Durban International Convention Center, easy access to Durban’s beaches and minutes away from all sport stadiums. Step inside the hotel and find elegant rooms with magnificent views, world-class dining, and modern facilities for business and relaxation — everything you need for a remarkable stay in South Africa’s Leading Business Hotel.

Square Boutique Hotel

With 50 sophisticated rooms to choose from, all fitted with the latest modern finishings and essentials, our hotel is the epitome of comfort and luxury.

Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani

An iconic hotel in Durban, the Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani invites guests to experience a modern full-service stay on Durban’s sun-kissed beachfront. Sweeping Indian Ocean views along the 7km promenade have set the scene for memorable holidays and exceptional events for nearly five decades. Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani promises an unforgettable stay in a contemporary classic. Sleep in comfort, dine with variety and meet with style.

Five Star Hotels

The Oyster Box

Perfectly situated on the ocean's edge, a brief 5-minute walk from Umhlanga Village center, the hotel is conveniently located for quick and easy access to Durban city center, the international airport and numerous shopping centers, yet has a feeling of classical charm and elegance. It sits on the dramatic shoreline of the Indian Ocean overlooking the lighthouse of Umhlanga. Features range from exceptional cuisine and fine wines to a rich collection of artwork and furnishings. The resort has 86 air-conditioned guestrooms, each featuring an inspiring balcony and various modern amenities. A SPA center is available to those traveling in pursuit of relaxation.

Beverly Hills

The award-winning Beverly Hills Hotel in uMhlanga, which first opened its doors in 1964, has become synonymous with elegance, gracious hospitality and intuitive service. Our luxury uMhlanga hotel also offers amenities such as complimentary WiFi, a fitness centre, heated pool, a business centre, two restaurants with an al fresco dining option and a convenient retail outlet. Additional benefits include a complimentary valet service upon arrival, access to the hotel’s DVD library, and a range of daily luxurious poolside massage treatments by experienced therapists.

Royal Palm Hotel

The Royal Palm Hotel, Umhlanga, Durban is ideally located for both business and recreational travel. This stunning hotel offers up 94 luxury apartments, which include 14 penthouses, 60 luxurious Executive Suites, 10 spacious Executive Deluxe rooms and 10 two bedroom Executive Suites.This upscale apartment style hotel boasts one of the most state-of-the-art conference venues in Umhlanga. THYME@ROYAL PALM restaurant, located onsite, offers patrons a meal extravaganza creating an absolute masterpiece of culinary delights. The Royal Palm Conference venue provides catering for private and corporate events in Umhlanga.