The arrival of winter is something to be celebrated on the KZN South Coast. The warm Indian Ocean and subtropical climate make ocean adventures possible year-round, but the slightly cooler months also bring with it the #greatestshoalonearth – the annual Sardine Run!
“In many parts of the country, the colder winter months make outdoor excursions almost impossible, but on the sunny KZN South Coast, the adventure never stops!” commented Phelisa Mangcu, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). “From our spectacular beaches and dive sites, to the eco-adventures and cultural experiences waiting to be uncovered in the hinterland, there is so much to see and do in the Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom.”
Ocean adventures
Every year, divers, anglers, and excited spectators await the winter phenomenon – the Sardine Run. Believed to be the planet’s biggest biomass migration, billions of silver sardines head northwards chased by hungry marine species. Sharks, whales, seabirds, and more can be seen leaping and swooping gleefully as they enjoy this fishy feast.
This is a great opportunity for anglers looking to make the big catch, with sardines bringing bigger game fish close to shore. Charter boats will take visitors out for a day of Sardine Run action, whether fishing, snorkelling, or diving. Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks, both Marine Protected Areas and two of the world’s top dive sites, are ideal for close-up underwater action.
That’s not the only marine spectacle on the KZN South Coast, as the cooler months welcome the annual humpback whales migration as they seek warmer waters to have their calves, before returning close to shore to protect their young ones. Recent years have seen whale numbers increasing, with visitors enjoying daily sightings of playful whales breaching, often spotted close to the backline.
If you prefer a relaxed day at the seaside just sunbathing, swimming, or exploring rock pools, then it’s worth visiting one of the KZN South Coast’s many golden beaches. The region is home to the highest number of tidal pools and internationally recognised Blue Flag beaches in the province.
Hinterland experiences
The gorges, valleys, waterfalls, nature and game reserves, as well as lush farmlands, are the ideal backdrop to the many sports, extreme adventures, and cultural excursions on offer. This winter, visitors are in for a treat as SCTIE has launched several innovative tourism experiences.
Why not start with the peaceful and tranquil Mission Tourism Route? This is a must-try tour that gives insight into the history of Roman Catholic Mission Stations dotted throughout the region. Uncover the stories of the Trappist Monks dating back to the 1800s as a tour guide takes you to The Capuchin Adoration Convent, Maris Stella Mission, Assisi Mission, and Maria Trost Mission for a full day of religious and historical enlightenment.
You could also embark on the 8km Weza Hiking Trail that starts in the iKhwezi rural area at the junction of the Mawane and Weza rivers, crossing two amaKhosi areas before finishing at a real hidden gem, the Mkhoba Waterfall. For something a bit more immersive, you could try the 71km Umzumbe River Trail that connects the hinterland with the coast. A local trail guide will take you across incredible terrain with authentic Zulu homestays and experiences along the route.
For more cultural excursions, try the KwaNzimakwe and Nyandezulu Experiences with a guided hike to Ntantana Mountain overlooking the 90m Nyandezulu Waterfall. There’s also Agri-Tourism adventure to be had with farm tours, produce-tasting, fishing, hiking, and biking available.
But if you want to get your heart rate up, head to Oribi Gorge where Wild 5 Adventures offers quad biking, paintballing, rafting, and abseiling, with the Wild Gorge Swing the highest swing of its kind in the world! There’s also Lake Eland Game Reserve, home to the 80-metre suspension bridge hanging 130 metres off the ground, as well as the longest zip line of its kind in Africa, the Zip Line Tour.
Golf tours
If you enjoy a round of golf, then ‘The Golf Coast’ is for you! There are 11 quality courses to try, starting with the region’s oldest course, Umkomaas Golf Club before heading to the semi-links courses Scottburgh Golf Club and Port Shepstone Country Club.
Pennington has a double whammy – Selborne Park Golf Estate and Umdoni Park Golf Club – while San Lameer Golf Course can be found within South Africa’s first golf estate. More coastal courses can be enjoyed at Margate Country Club and Southbroom Golf Club before you head to timber farming land for the nine-hole Harding Country Club.
Then finish off with rounds at Port Edward Country Club or Wild Coast Sun Country Club, which is rated in the top 10 golf courses in South Africa.
Uncover the ultimate outdoor adventure on the KZN South Coast!