Five things to do in Zululand this summer

Whether it’s a beach stop, a holiday in one of the local game reserves or just taking in the region’s beautiful scenery, Zululand offers something for everyone.

Here is just a taste of what the region has in store for visitors and locals alike.

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1. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

Get there early because animals are more active in the early morning, and less likely to be seen during the heat of the day as they seek solace in dense bush or under trees.

This Big 5 game reserve is Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife’s flagship reserve, boasting healthy populations of endangered animals such as the African wild dog, among others.

2. Richards Bay dolphin viewing platform

The Bay coastline is the best place in the country for dolphin lovers to view the rare humpback dolphin.

With the Newark Beach shark nets, which were identified as being responsible for dolphin deaths, having been removed in recent years, sightings of this endangered mammal have increased.

Take a stroll down the pier and see if you can spot any of these magnificent creatures, but apply sunscreen first – you don’t want to roast under the sizzling sun.

3. St Lucia town

Estuary boat cruises where you can get up close and personal with the resident hippos and crocodiles; boat-based whale watching tours; day trips through the Eastern and Western Shores of Lake St Lucia; snorkelling at Cape Vidal, and horse safaris, St Lucia is a hive of activity and a great destination for a day trip or overnighting.

4. Zululand Brewery

Located at the George Hotel in eShowe, the Zululand Brewery is the smallest brewery on the KZN Brew Route and well-known for its flagship beer, Zulu Blonde.

Zulu Blonde went international in 2010 when it was voted the number one ale out of 50 at the JD Wetherspoons International Real Ale Festival.

This award won the beer a permanent place in UK pubs.

5. Duma Zulu traditional village

Experience traditional Zulu culture at South Africa’s largest cultural village in Bushlands, Hluhluwe.

Watch locals make spears, shields, baskets and clay pots, or have a one-on-one reading with a sangoma.

The 3 000 square metre aviary includes elevated walkways, waterfall features and seated areas among local flora and fauna.

Also on the property is a bird and reptile park, housing the largest free-flight aviary in KZN, as well as the newly-added Snake Pharm with its snakes on display. Snake Pharm is also researching anti-venom to assist with South Africa’s critical shortage.