Has the adventure and travel bug bitten but time is limited? Then why not head off for a quick weekend getaway? The Adventure-Avontuur Afrika team put together our top picks in the KwaZulu-Natal region.
Drakensberg Sun
Surrounded by the stunning Drakensberg Mountain range, the resort is a sight to behold and offers a perfect family getaway with a good variety of accommodation and activities. Described as the perfect mountain hide-away for relaxing and unwinding, it may not offer extreme adventure activities but certainly gets you away from the city for some exploring.
- 222.7 km (2h31min) from Durban
- Accommodation: Various options, ranging from extremely high-end luxury to self-catering options for the casual adventurer.
- 4×4 Playgrounds
- Various passes in the surrounding Drakensberg area and if you’re up to it, you can always take a day trip to the famous Sani Pass in Lesotho.
- Other activities:
- Hiking
- Skiing (winter season)
- Golf course
- Child-friendly activities
- Guided walks
- Horse riding
- Day trips to surrounding areas such as the quaint town of Winterton
Oribi Gorge
With huge cliffs, tranquil waterfalls and massive mountains surrounding you Oribi Gorge looks like something straight out of a movie. It provides something for the hardcore adventurer while boasting enough facilities and activities to keep the family happy. While there may be minimal wildlife, the rare bird types in the area and unique vistas make up for it.And, of course, the world-famous wild gorge swing – situated at the top Leh’r waterfall, it is the highest of its kind in the world.
- 153.5km (1h35mins) from Durban
- Accommodation: Multiple guest houses and farms around that provide excellent options, suiting all spectrums.
- 4×4 playgrounds
- Lake Eland 4×4 route: 039 687 0395
- Oribi Gorge MTB Trails: +27 39 687 0253/ info@oribigorge.co.za
- Lehrs Trail: +27 39 687 0253 / www.wild5adventures.co.za
- Other activities
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Rock climbing
- Mountaineering
- Ziplining
Tembe Elephant Park
Offering intimate encounters with some of the largest elephants in Africa, the 300km² reserve brings is the ancestral home of the Tembe tribe. It is known for impressive herds of elephant, and you will encounter some these gentle giants with the biggest tusks in South Africa. As part of the SA National Parks, your wildcard can be used for entry
- 399.9 km (4h 27mins) from Durban
- Accommodation: Ranging from luxury lodges to the budget-friendly Tembe tents, the park caters for all preferences.
- 4×4 playgrounds
- Jozini 4×4 trail: 035 591 0058/www.kznwildlife.com
- The area is extremely rural and requires a 4×4 to get to the hidden spots in the park.
- Other activities
- Bird watching
- Concealed Game viewing
- Bird watching
- Walking safaris
- Self-drive safaris
Sodwana
The diving mecca of South Africa, Sodwana is often described as visiting Moz without crossing the border since the food, weather and activities are very similar. This little piece of semi-tropical coast is furthermore one of the few places in SA allowing driving and camping on the beach (with a permit).
- 353.7 km (4h7min) from Durban
- Accommodation: Sodwana offers a great variety in accommodation options across the spectrum, with camping sites, lodges and house rentals.
- 4×4 playgrounds.
- Mabibi 4×4 trail: +27 83 306 2434/pam@sacampsites.co.za
- Ndumu 4×4 trail: 035 591 0058/
- Also, note that the entire Sodwana bay is hugely rural and as such, it is essential to come prepared with a capable off-road vehicle as well as knowledge of sand driving.
- Other activities
- Fishing
- Scuba
- Off-roading
Midlands Meander
The Midlands Meander is an 80km network of sightseeing routes winding through the green belly of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, an easy hour’s drive from Durban. Meander means to “wander at random” and this is precisely what the route is about, offering some exquisite views and fun activities along the way
- 107.5km (1h13m) from Durban
- Accommodation: Multiple guest lodges, farms and self-catering options around the area.
- 4×4 playgrounds.
- Hidden Valley Trail: +27 83 872 4611/033 263 1470
- Other activities
- Arts & Crafts
- Culinary experiences aplenty (chocolate and coffee pairing; cheese tasting and beer tasting at the famous Nottingham beer brewery)
- Karkloof canopy tour
- Fishing at Midmar Dam
- Game viewing
- Hiking
- Horse riding
