The iLembe District offers both locals and tourists an array of unforgettable experiences and attractions for the whole family to enjoy. So why not take a Sho’t Left and explore your own backyard. These are just a few suggestions for you to get started’.
MONKEYLAND
Take a walk on the wild side at the award-winning primate sanctuary just outside Ballito. Home to eight species of free-roaming exotic primate, knowledgeable guides help you to find as many of the different species as possible.
Details: 032 004 0178 www.monkeylandkzn
RAIN FARM
Experience the splendour and beauty of South Africa like you never have before by visiting Rain Farm Game & Lodge just outside of Durban. Our luxurious game lodge was founded as a wildlife sanctuary but has grown to include ten self-catering cabins and six luxury tree-top tents as well as an extravagant plains view restaurant where you can see our giraffes, impalas, buffalos to name a few roam freely. Contact 032 815 1050
SEVENTEEN87 WINE CELLAR
The name 1787 pays tribute to the legendary King Shaka, born on the North Coast of KwaZulu Natal in 1787. Th region’s coastline and rich landscapes provide a perfect location for the iLembe Winery. Seventeen87 – a wine collection that includes the following great wines: Merlot, Rose, Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Villard Blanc. Stop in for a wine tasting and learn more about wine in a relaxing and inviting environment. Details: Seventeen87, Sugar Rush Park, www.enterpriseilembe.co.za, [email protected], 032 946 1256
SUGAR RUSH PARK
Fun is unlimited at Sugar Rush Park in Ballito. From the immaculate play area, with Zipline and bike track, kids’ train and tractor rides, a petting zoo, reptile park, putt-putt, slime & crafts, laser tag, and a jump park, your kids will experience nothing less than pure joy. Sugar Rush Park is a beautiful day out for the family to enjoy the scenery and open spaces. Details 060 997 9996
HOLE IN THE WALL
Thompsons Bay is known as one of our more popular swimming beaches. As you walk through the ‘Hole in the Wall’ you will discover picturesque coves which leads to smaller stretches of deserted beaches. The snorkelling at Thompsons Bay tidal pool is also worth a mention, and is a must for the kids.
SNORKELLING IN BALLITO
We are spoilt for choice when it comes to snorkelling in Ballito, from the tidal pool at Salt Rock (directly opposite the campsite), to Thompsons Bay, and as far as Sheffield Beach. All offering a vast array of incredible fish and marine life all in shallow, safe, protected tidal pools and natural rocky reef areas. Contact Tidal Tao , who offer excellent snorkelling excursions along the North Coast, 079 307 0608, [email protected]
ADVENTURE VALLEY
Adventure Valley is nestled in a valley along the Sampoya river. The abundant bird life attests to the fact that the forest surroundings are a perfect tranquil setting in the heart of nature. Nature lovers can experience the outdoors in a peaceful environment. The 1,5km Zipline Tour with the “first-in-the-world” Parazip is the most popular attraction on offer. The tour spans the valley and meanders into parts of the lush forest. Sliding along Zipline Cables and enjoying small walking trails that form part of the tour, make this adventure a memorable one. School Excursions and Camps are hosted on an exclusive basis.
Details: 032 942 8014
KING SHAKA’S VISITOR CENTRE
King Shaka Zulu was killed on 24 September 1828 by two of his brothers, whilst he was sitting on a rock and was later thrown in to an empty pit. A memorial was erected Shaka’s Grave in 1932, by the Zulu Nation on King, next to the rock that was believed to be the rock on which he sat when he was assassinated, however the exact location of the grave is unknown, just the general area. Details: 032 552-7210
CHIEF ALBERT LUTHILI MUSEUM
The Museum represents the life of Albert Luthuli that includes the original house that Luthuli stayed in 1927. Not only does the Museum have a strong history, but it is also a National Monument. Chief Luthuli was the first African to win a Nobel Peace Prize, which he received in 1960. The Museum, which is located in KwaDukuza, is a must visit.
Details: 032 559-6822/4
KWASHUSHU HOT SPRINGS
Planning a holiday for a weekend away, why not head inland to KwaShushu? These natural how springs are located on an island in the middle of the Thukela River, below Ntunjambili (Kranskop). There may be no formal camping facilities, however tents can be pitched. Many families make an annual trek to the springs and set up camp during June and July when the hot springs are easiest to access.
