Umzumbe hiking trail launched

The latest hinterland initiative, the Umzumbe River Trail, which takes visitors into the heart of the South Coast for an authentic Zulu experience, was launched at the Durban ICC last week.

According to Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT), the development of tourism routes in the hinterland is a key role of USCT, bringing unique experiences to visitors while creating valuable job opportunities for local communities.

CEO of USCT, Phelisa Mangcu said there are more than 1 000 registered hiking trails across South Africa’s nine provinces offering visitors an incredibly immersive experience.

Mangcu said drawing on this popularity, they considered a dedicated South Coast hiking trail the perfect way to provide visitors with an unmatched hinterland excursion that brings in natural and cultural enlightenment along the way.

She added that in this way, they are creating a sustainable rural tourism product that further entrenches the paradise of the Zulu Kingdom as a prime holiday destination.

Mangcu said those embarking on the Umzumbe River Trail will be given a traditional welcome at the start at Mhlabatshane Dam in Phugashe before a week-long hiking adventure that winds along 70km of spectacular natural landscape.

She said knowledgeable local trail guides will lead guests, either hiking or biking, while sharing information on the unique geology, flora, and fauna of the region as well as the many medicinal uses of plants that have formed part of Zulu culture for centuries.

“This trail winds across a landscape that is home to six Zulu clans; the eNhlangwini, eMabheleni, KwaCele, kwaNdelu, kwaQwabe and KwaMadlala. Guides will take hikers on detours along the trail to places of interest and privately owned refreshment stops. Every night, visitors will be welcomed into authentic homestays where they get to experience the traditional culture of each of these clans,” said Mangcu, adding that drumming, song, dance, and storytelling will give insights into a history stretching back to the days of iNkosi uShaka and beyond.

She said guests will also enjoy the opportunity to venture out and experience the taverns, sights, and sounds of nearby villages. “The world-renowned skill of local artisans will be showcased through handmade arts and crafts on display,” said Mangcu.

Meanwhile, the South African Tourism Board said hiking trails are the best way to experience South Africa’s scenery, sunny climate, and outdoor culture – saying that it is one of the world’s most popular hiking destinations.

“Whether you like to hike up mountains, along rivers, or through valleys, you are certain to find a perfect route,” said the South African Tourism Board.