Welcome to the Hibiscus Coast!
You will be surprised just how much there is to do on the not-so-slow KZN South Coast. Here is a list of the top 10 interesting places worth visiting during your stay.
1. Wild Coast Sun Wild Waves Water Park
Wild Waves Water Park is a Wild Coast Sun water world providing an assortment of water rides, from slides and tubes to loops and rivers. Whether you are aged three or 63, Wild Coast Sun Wild Waves Water Park has a water world ride for you. Several of the world’s best rides have been imported from Canada to the Wild Coast Sun Hotel and Casino Resort, and all Wild Waves rides are guaranteed to thrill. Call: 039 3054800
2. Riverbend Crocodile Farm
Hundreds of crocodiles, snakes and numerous bird species. Great attraction for the whole family. Near the Southbroom turn-off. Call: 039 3166204 or email: info@crocodilecrazy.co.za
3. Pure Venom Snake and Reptile Farm
South African’s largest educational reptile farm located inland from Shelly Beach at Izotsha. Call: 039 6850704 or 082 4928256.
4. Lake Eland Game Reserve
If you are looking for the perfect venue for a family holiday, romantic getaway or simply a day’s outing. Spectacular views of the Oribi Gorge and abundant wildlife make this a unique experience. With a variety of facilities and activities such as a children’s playground, game drives, horse riding, walking and cycling trails, paintball, a challenging 4×4 track, and a thrilling walk across a 80m suspension bridge – everyone will have a fun-filled and relaxing day at Lake Eland. Don’t forget to try out the Lake Eland zip line, the longest zip line tour in Africa. The tour consists of 14 zip lines starting at the top of the gorge. The views from that height are breathtaking and you are left feeling exhilarated when you reach the platform. Call: 039 6870395 or 083 2579468.
5. Wild 5 Adventures in Oribi Gorge
The Wild Gorge swing is an unbelievable experience that leaves you breathless yet exhilarated. Situated at the top of Lehr’s Waterfall, this is the highest swing in the world. Hurl yourself (or simply step) off the edge of the waterfall to swing into the gaping depths of the gorge – 165m (55 storeys). Unlike a bungee, where you are strapped by the ankles, you experience the swing securely and comfortably fastened in a full body harness. You can also go rafting or abseiling. Call: 082 3373746 or info@wild5adventures.co.za
6. Game reserves or trails
There are many reserves to visit along the coast. Here are just a few: Bendigo Nature Reserve, Empisini Nature Reserve, Mpenjati Public Resort Nature Reserve, Oribi Gorge Game Reserve, Skyline Nature Reserve, Umtamvuna Nature Reserve, Petrified Fossil Forest, Lake Eland Game Reserve and River Valley Nature Reserve.
8. Train ride in Paddock
Climb aboard the ‘Hamba Wehelie Express’ and relive the golden age of the Banana Express on a nostalgic and relaxing trip through the countryside. Hauled by a 50-year old diesel locomotive, the one-hour train trip starts at Gorgez View, (a 20 minute drive from Port Shepstone) and travels to Paddock and Plains station. A lovely family day outing! Bookings are essential, call 039 6791345 or 072 2386865 or email gorgezview@paddock.co.za.
9. Port Edward lighthouse
The official name of this Port Edward landmark is the North Sand Bluff Lighthouse. Originally built in 1968, the 24metre tall structure was subsequently rebuilt in 1999. The light is half a million candlewatts in power, has two beams and is visible for 40km.
10. Dolphin and whale watching:
Spot the whales, dolphins or even birds from decks located in Margate, Umtentweni and Ramsgate. Pack a picnic basket and watch the sun set. The best thing is it won’t cost you a cent! Margate’s whale deck is adjacent to the Margate fishing pier. The Tweni Whale Deck, built by Umtentweni Conservancy, is located along the Old St Faiths Road and the Ramsgate Whale Deck and Enviro Centre is in the centre of the village, overlooking the beach.
Information taken from: www.suninternational.com, www.gosouthcoast.co.za, www.wild5adventures.co.za, www.lakeeland.co.za, www.visitportedward.co.za, www.southcoastherald.co.za, www.crocodilecrazy.co.za, www.purevenom.com
