The KZN South Coast is embracing the global shift towards more meaningful and mindful travel by promoting “slow travel” through its exciting Great Drives Out (GDO) routes. These scenic road trips invite visitors to discover the Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom at a relaxed pace, stretching from Scottburgh to Port Edward and inland to Harding, while uncovering authentic hinterland experiences beyond the coastline.
The Great Drives Out concept gained momentum following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, as travellers increasingly sought open-air adventures, eco-tourism experiences and safer leisure options. Today, the routes continue to attract visitors looking for immersive travel experiences that connect them with local communities, culture, heritage and nature.
From scenic mountains and forests to vibrant township tours, cultural landmarks and agri-tourism adventures, the Great Drives Out showcase the diversity of the KZN South Coast while supporting rural tourism development and community participation.
Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise, said the campaign responds directly to evolving traveller interests. “Today’s travellers are searching for authentic experiences that allow them to connect with people, culture and nature in a more meaningful way. The KZN South Coast Great Drives Out offers exactly that from adventure and heritage to agri-tourism and township experiences while creating opportunities for local communities and showcasing the hidden gems of our hinterland.
KZN South Coast Great Drives Out Routes
1. KwaXolo Caves Adventures
Discover 100 000-year-old San rock paintings through a thrilling via ferrata system at KwaXolo Caves Adventures. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking mountain views, a suspension bridge and tranquil picnic spots near a cascading waterfall. Future developments include a zipline and restaurant.
2. KwaNzimakwe Multi Trails
KwaNzimakwe Multi Trails offers exciting 4×4 routes, mountain biking trails and hiking experiences to Xhuluweshe Mountain with panoramic views across the region.
3. KwaNdwalane Experience
The KwaNdwalane Experience includes guided hiking routes through Nyandezulu and Madakane, showcasing mountains, forests and rivers. Both trails lead to a spectacular 80-metre waterfall, while homestays provide visitors with an authentic cultural experience.
4. Malangeni Experience
The Malangeni Experience combines history, nature and leisure with attractions such as Botha House, Umdoni Park Nature Reserve, Nkomba Nature Reserve, Pennington Beach, and renowned golf courses including Umdoni Country Club and Selborne Country Club.
5. Religious Tourism Route
This spiritual journey includes historical religious landmarks such as Itshe likaMaria and the Nazareth Baptist Church, commonly known as the Shembe Church.
6. Gamalakhe Township Experience
The Gamalakhe Township Experience immerses visitors in the township’s vibrant culture and history, including Tin Town tours, quad biking, paintball, car spinning demonstrations and authentic shisanyama experiences.
7. Oribi Gorge Adventure
Adventure seekers can explore Oribi Gorge with activities including Africa’s highest gorge swing, ziplining, white-water rafting and horse riding, while also enjoying spectacular views and the Cape vulture colony.
8. Weza Hiking Trail – Harding
Located near Harding, the Weza Hiking Trail takes visitors on an 8km guided journey across rivers and amaKhosi areas before ending at the scenic Mkhoba Waterfall. Overnight stays at Ntozakhe Homestay provide an immersive Zulu cultural experience.
9. Umzumbe River Trail
The Umzumbe River Trail is a six-day, 71km hiking experience beginning at Umhlabatshane Dam and ending at Sea Park Beach, offering river crossings, breathtaking scenery and cultural homestays with local Zulu clans.
10. Agri-Tourism Route
The KZN South Coast Agri-Tourism Route stretches from Scottburgh to Port Edward and features farm tours and farm-to-fork experiences at destinations including Mac Banana, Secret Sithela Organic Farm, Beaver Creek Coffee Farm, Animal Farm, Ubumbano Farmstead and BBS Farm.
11. Red Desert
The Red Desert is regarded as one of South Africa’s most fascinating natural wonders and is often described as the “World’s Smallest Desert,” measuring approximately 200 metres in diameter.
12. Culture and Heritage Route
- Ntelezi Msani Heritage Centre
Located in Mthwalume, Ntelezi Msani Heritage Centre preserves and celebrates Zulu history and traditions through art, dance, music and cultural seminars.
- Isivivane seNkosi uShaka
Situated in Umzumbe, Isivivane seNkosi uShaka is a historic stone cairn linked to King Shaka’s journey through the region in 1828. Visitors can participate in the traditional ritual of adding a stone to honour ancestors and leave a symbolic connection to the KZN South Coast.
Visitors are encouraged to browse SCTIE’s full holiday events calendar at www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za for more festive-season happenings.
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Get in Touch!
Unlock adventure on the KZN South Coast! Unlock more by downloading the Explore KZN South Coast app, visiting the KZN South Coast website www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za; following South Coast Tourism on Facebook, South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube, @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram, and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. Watch why the KZN South Coast is a top tourism destination here.
