From the warm waters of the subtropical Durban coastline to the majestic Drakensberg mountains, KwaZulu Natal offers the traveler a variety of landscapes and activities to enjoy. The province is divided into five regions namely South Coast, Midlands, Drakensberg and Durban and North Coast - each with an individual feel and flavour.

The province enjoys a pleasant and warm climate all year round with the subtropical Indian Ocean bringing warm waters to the many beaches dotting the coastline.

Centered around one of the busiest ports in Africa, Durban is the biggest centre in the province and has become the economic hub of the province. Besides plenty of beaches and water activities, areas of interest include the well-known aquarium and dophinarium, various historical buildings and a number of conservation areas including the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park, the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park and the Mtunzini and Umlalozi Nature Reserves.

The majestic Drakensberg mountains, whose peaks rise to over 3000m, separates the low-lying coastal belt from the high plateau of the Kwa-Zulu Natal interior. There are a number of national parks in the area providing spectacular scenery and many opportunities for hiking and camping and the gentle mountain foothills provide solitude for nature lovers, hikers and ramblers.

The South Coast, including Amanzimtoti, Scottburgh, Margate and Port Shepstone offers long stretches of white, sandy beaches and is a popular family holiday destination.

The Midlands, with its well-known Midlands Meander, is a region of gentle rolling hills, deep river valleys and a place to enjoy quiet and solitude. Here trout fishing, walking and many arts and crafts can be enjoyed. These are the hills that Shaka fought for and conquered to make it home of the Zulu nation. Pietermaritzburg is located in an amphitheatre formed by the valley of the Umzindusi River and offers a variety of historical buildings, galleries and museums.

Copyright to About South Africa 2003-2004. Photographs on this website courtesy of South Africa Tourism.