5 heritage sites to visit in KZN

SEPTEMBER marks Heritage Month with Heritage Day celebrated on September 24. The month is celebrated by showcasing our nation’s diverse culture and heritage. With schools closing for the third term, Caxton Local Media spoke to Tourism KwaZulu-Natal about five heritage sites that families can visit in the province.

Also read: Aweh! Open Durban’s treasure box this Heritage Month

1. Simangaliso Wetland Park

As South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. This 332 000-hectare reserve features diverse ecosystems, including coral reefs, coastal dunes and wetlands. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, snorkelling and spotting wildlife, such as elephants, hippos and crocodiles. It’s a place where nature and culture converge, highlighting the deep connection between the Zulu people and their environment.

2. The Nelson Mandela Capture Site

The site located near Howick commemorates the moment in 1962 when Nelson Mandela was arrested by apartheid police. The site features a striking sculpture of Mandela, composed of 50 steel columns that align to create his image when viewed from a specific angle. Visitors can also explore the museum and exhibition centre, which provides an insightful look into Mandela’s life and his fight for freedom.

3. The Battlefields Route

The Battlefields Route in northern KZN offers an in-depth exploration of the Anglo-Zulu and Anglo-Boer wars. Key battle sites such as Isandlwana, Rorke’s Drift and Blood River are historically significant and provide a glimpse into South Africa’s colonial past. Visitors can join guided tours to learn about the battles and see memorials, museums, and gravesites of those who fought in these wars.

4. uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park

This is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park is not only known for its breathtaking mountain range but also for its ancient San rock art. The Drakensberg Mountains are home to thousands of rock paintings created by the indigenous San people, dating back more 2 000 years. Hiking trails through the mountains allow visitors to see this ancient artwork while enjoying the park’s natural beauty.

5. The Albert Luthuli Museum

This museum in Groutville is dedicated to Chief Albert Luthuli, the first African to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. Luthuli was an influential leader in the struggle against apartheid and a former president of the African National Congress (ANC). The museum, housed in his former home, showcases his life, his role in the liberation movement, and his legacy as a symbol of peace and justice in South Africa.

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