The spectacular vastness of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa, is celebrated in Zululand. Here, jade-coloured hills roll endlessly into the distance, while the grasslands drift gently to and fro in the breeze. Forests are clustered on these landscapes and towns dot the roads that wind through all of this beauty. These towns include St Lucia, Kosi Bay, Hluhluwe, Richard’s Bay, Ulundi and Vryheid.
This area is just north of South Africa’s Dolphin Coast, stretching from Richard’s Bay inland. Although it feels like a serene retreat from the real world, it is, in fact, a sizeable area. It covers around one-quarter of the entire KZN province. In addition to gorgeous vistas and stunning coastal regions, it also has a rich cultural and historical heritage.
Highlights of Zululand
Deep-sea Fishing
Although Zululand is fantastic for so many reasons, it is a real winner for keen anglers. Sodwana and Cape Vidal promise perfect fishing spots for deep-sea fishermen that want to test their skills and reel in an impressive catch.
These Indian Ocean waters are ideal for catching marlin (blue and black), sailfish, dorado, kingfish, king mackerel, barracuda and black bonito (also known as black kingfish or prodigal son).
Charters head out into the water, equipped with all of the necessary gear. Experienced guides and skippers will accompany you to give insights on tackle, bait, catch-and-release, tagging, and more. Experiencing the variety and beauty of Zululand on a deep-sea fishing charter makes for very special memories.
Whale- and Dolphin-watching
These waters are teeming with extraordinary cetacean species. These include the humpback whale, southern right whale, orca, humpback dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, and long-beaked common dolphin.
While the dolphins can be seen surfing the waves or leaping out of the deeper waters almost all year round, the whales only visit the South African shores in the second half of the year. They love to emerge from the water and catch a glimpse of their human spectators, and create awesome displays when they blow mist-fountains from their blowhole.
Historical Attractions
As its name implies, this was once the territory of mighty Zulu tribes that were renowned for their war techniques and many victories. The Zulu kingdom once dominated most of what is now known as KwaZulu-Natal, but was finally defeated in the Anglo-Zulu War of the 1870’s.
Today, the region is dotted with battle fields and war memorials. These are accessible to visitors that want to learn more about the history of the Zulus before and after British settlers arrived.
Cultural Attractions
Thanks to the strong ties to the Zulu kingdom, which continues to be one of South Africa’s most prevalent cultures, Zululand offers a wonderful variety of cultural attractions.
These include cultural villages (such as Shakaland, Dumazulu and Veyane), song and dance performances, shebeens (traditional taverns), and the opportunity to meet with the local African people and learn more their customs.
Natural Attractions
There are a number of exquisite natural attractions throughout Zululand. These include the countryside, which is rich in biodiversity, as well as parks and reserves.
The Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Dlinza Forest, Siyaya Coastal Park, Phinda Game Reserve, Tembe Elephant Park, Amatikulu Nature Reserve and Umlalazi Nature Reserve are just some of the Zululand jewels that showcase the fauna and flora of this scenic part of the country for nature-lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the wildest residents of Zululand comprise rhinoceros, lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, giraffe, and kudu.
Zululand certainly promises its visitors plenty in the way of things to do and see, particularly for those that want to immerse themselves in the natural splendour when they Travel South Africa.