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Secrets of KwaZulu-Natal: Durban, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, The Drakensberg & More

Duration
8 Days
Prices From:
US$ 1,113

FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: It may be South Africa’s third-smallest province, but KwaZulu-Natal’s scenic and cultural riches include the country’s most popular beaches, numerous game reserves, historic battlefields, and the dramatic Drakensberg Mountains. Take a different style of South Africa vacation, and see why this region is so popular with first-time and repeat visitors.


This 8-day South Africa trip takes you to Durban and KwaZulu-Natal, encompassing history, wildlife, and the natural beauty of this much-loved part of the country.

Staying in Durban itself, start with a full day exploring the city’s highlights. Follow the revitalized ‘Golden Mile’ beachfront before browsing the markets of Warwick Triangle, where up to 6000 street vendors sell their wares. The tour concludes with a visit to the Durban Botanic Gardens and the spectacular view from the top of Moses Mabhida Stadium. The following day, journey into the heart of Zululand with a visit to the largest Zulu kraal, a visit with an iSangoma or traditional healer, a local beer tasting, and a thrilling display of traditional dance.

It may not have the instant name recognition of Kruger, but Hluhluwe-Imfolozi is one of South Africa’s best game parks. Rising early, you’ll embark on a game drive, searching for the Big 5 (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and black rhino) among other majestic creatures. Bird watchers will also love this region with 425 distinct species recorded. From wildlife to landscapes, go on to the Drakensberg Mountain Range, including the Giant’s Castle. You’ll explore the nearby caves, and see Bushman paintings dating back millennia.

South Africa boasts a rich mix of ethnic influences from near and far, which has contributed to its distinctive and delicious cuisine. To devotees, the Curry Buffet is more a site of pilgrimage than a restaurant. But even a currysceptic will appreciate the sweeping Indian Ocean views as you enjoy this multicultural feast at Oyster Box Hotel. Your final full day is one of history, exploring the Battlefields of the Anglo-Zulu war,Isandiwana and Rorke’s Drift.

At Goway we are experts at designing personalized itineraries to suit your special interests, tastes and budget. Let us arrange your ultimate travel experience today.
Duration
8 Days
Prices From:
US$ 1,113

Itinerary View Trip Map

Day 1

Arrive Umhlanga

Upon arrival at Durban King Shaka International Airport, you will be met by a Goway representative and transferred to your hotel in Unhlanga. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.

Duration7 Nights
Day 2

Drakensberg World Heritage Tour

An early departure this morning (between 06:00 and 06:30) as you head out for your day of exploring. Discover the beauty of the undulating Drakensberg Mountain range as you travel through such breathtaking vistas as you visit the World Heritage Site of Giant's Castle. The enigmatic Bushman paintings in the vicinity are not far, so you set off on foot for a leisurely 3km round hike to the site of the caves to discover this magical legacy of the bushmen (moderate fitness level required). Your guide there will share his knowledge of the paintings which date back 2 000 years. You're bound to have built up an appetite, so you'll tuck into the hearty lunch laid on. Your return to Durban is via a visit to the Nelson Mandela Capture site - a historically significant moment in South African history and now commemorated with a world-class sculpture, in memory of Nelson Mandela and his heroic role in the struggle against apartheid. Return back to your accommodation at approximately 17:30.

Day 3

Full Day Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park Tour

Today, depart your hotel early this morning (approximately 06:30) as you make your way to Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park. This magnificent Big Five game park is not only home to 84 species of game, but it is the oldest proclaimed reserve in Africa, world-renowned for its highly successful white rhino conservation program. A day on safari in the magical Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park doesn't stop at the thrill of searching for the Big Five, but the hilly terrain offers spectacular views of the Reserve and your camera is going to love it. There is an arranged lunch at the lofty Hilltop Camp - or similar - and it will give you a chance to check how close your bird count has come to the 425 listed birds in the Park. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is Kwazulu-Natal's pride and joy, and after your visit, you'll understand why. After your day in the park, transfer back to your hotel in Umhlanga, arriving at approximately 18:30)

Day 4

Wowzulu Ballito Cooking Experience

Today you will be transferred from your hotel to Ballito for your Wowzulu Ballito Cooking Experience. You can choose one of four times for your cooking experience: 09:00, 11:00, 13:00, or 15:00 depending on your preference and availability (Please advise your preference at the time of booking). At the WOWZULU Marketplace in the heart of bustling Ballito, you will be treated to great coffee and a unique immersive culinary experience: a 'taste of local' cuisine created by award-winning chef Phumlani Mthembu. Let Phumlani teach you to make 'Kasi Taste' dishes that are a fusion of Zulu and Indian flavors. Upon returning to your hotel, the remainder of the day is at your leisure.

Day 5

Umhlanga At Leisure

Today is at your leisure to relax and explore Umhlanga / Durban on your own. Why not add in a special dinner for this evening at The Oyster Box Hotel at The Curry Buffet in the Ocean Terrace Restaurant (At additional cost), which continues to attract fans from far and wide. Set in the casual, Mediterranean-inspired Ocean Terrace, with gorgeous views across the Indian Ocean, the impressive curry selection, of at least 11 curries daily, includes meat, fish, and vegetarian options. Using delicate blends of spices and fresh herbs, each curry is a masterpiece in itself. From the delicate flavors of the Singapore Fish Curry, using the freshest fish of the day, to the spicy, hot Lamb Vindaloo and smooth-textured Butter Chicken. Vegetarian options delight as Bean and Botie sit side-by-side with, Vegetable Korma and Sugar-Bean Curry. The city's famous Chicken and Prawn Curry and the Oyster Box's signature Traditional Durban Lamb Curry remain firm favorites. Accompanied by fresh, homemade condiments including lime and vegetable pickles, homemade Chutneys, Raitas, Sambals, and freshly baked Naan breads, Papadums, and Roti, the Curry Buffet, compels diners to return time and again. Two Tandoori ovens guarantee authentic, freshly prepared Tandoori chicken, also available on the Buffet. Reservations are required -- please ask your Goway Consultant.

Day 6

Departure

After breakfast, you will be transferred back to Durban King Shaka International Airport in time for your departure flight.

Other Information

DEPARTURES:

Sundays

PRICE INCLUDES:

  • Meet and Greet at Durban King Shaka Airport 
  • Shared arrival and departure airport transfers 
  • 5 nights in first-class accommodations in Umhlanga 
  • Small group Drakensberg World Heritage Tour (max 18 guests)
  • Small group Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park Tour (max 18 guests)
  • Small group WowZulu Balito Cooking Experience with tasting (max 18 guests)
  • 6 breakfasts  

 

Excludes: 

  • Travel Insurance 
  • International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes 
  • Meals & beverages not explicitly listed as included 
  • Gratuities 
  • Optional excursions 
  • Items of a personal nature 
  • Visa fees if applicable 

TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.

TB THOMPSODUR0222SG: DD 2
11 Dec 2023
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