A coastal haven

Running along the northeastern edge of South Africa you will find a seaside vision of immaculate splendour, wrapped in the warmth and pleasures of the tropics and transitioning into subtropical delight. The soft sand of flawless and miraculous beaches are scattered along these coastal shores, and trust us, this is Maputaland without embellishment.

Maputaland stretches from the turtle nesting grounds of Kosi Bay, passing the kaleidoscopic coral reefs of Sodwana Bay, it then embraces the natural heritage of iSimangaliso Wetland Park and extends beyond the prolific plains of Richards Bay.

Besides the unmistakable natural beauty that envelopes Maputaland; the ocean, freshwater lakes, river valleys and forests lends itself to a myriad of wonderful and adventurous activities. Canoe pass river lounging crocodile, snorkel in fish infested water, dive deep and visit some of the most southern coral reefs in the world, or unwinds and cast a line whether on the fly or angling; do all this while in the warmth of the African sun.

With the charm of natural beauty, what more could you ask for? Throw in some culture and history and you’ll certainly have a complete South African experience. Northern Natal is stained with the spirit of battle which shaped a nation in days that has gone by. The culture, ancient traditions and history of the Zulu nation is kept alive by its people. Extending from Dolphins Coast to Richards Bay, and bordered inland by the northern Pongola and southern Tugela Rivers has become known as Zululand.

Visit the area and immerse yourself in one of Africa’s ancient cultures, its brutal history, the deeply spiritual traditions and age old customs of its passionate people. It is in Northern Natal where you will find the famous Battlefields. No less than six South African battles occurred within these far stretched plains, for you to rediscover.

The best season to visit KwaZulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal is hot and humid in summer and mildly humid and warm in winter. The tropical climate causes rain throughout all regions year round. Heavy rain is expected during summer months from October to March; with temperatures reaching up to 35 C (95F).

Dry season is between April and September with pleasant warm days reaching temperatures of up to 23 C (73F). Humidity has a percentage of 90 in summer and an average of 55% in the winter months.

Access Details

Most of Maputaland coast can only be accessed by 4 wheel drive vehicle, so don’t try and drive your rental sedan on the gravel roads to the coast because you will probably get stuck or break the under carriage!

The Battlefields are easily accessed via the N2 national road from Durban, which is approximately a 2 hours drive. Daily international flights arrive and depart Durban’s Kinga Shaka International Airport. Richard Bay may be accessed by air from Johannesburg.

Advice from Safari Russ:

“This is one of the most exciting safari destinations. It combines the bushveld with a safari experience to encounter the big 5 and other impressive African animals with wonderful ocean encounters such as diving with whale sharks, exploring coral reefs and observing nesting turtles. The entire area of Maputaland is biodiversity hotspot with great international significance and conservation importance.”