Ten things to do in KZN this summer

The holidays are in full swing, and if you are looking to have some fun this summer, we have some cool ideas for you to try in KwaZulu-Natal.

Whether you are exploring the province solo, or with family and friends, there is bound to be something for everyone.

From hippo boat cruises in St Lucia to ziplining at 160km/h in Port Shepstone, you will no doubt gain some amazing 2016 summer memories.

Here’s a look at what you can get up to in KZN over the next few weeks.

Boat cruise through iSimangaliso Wetland Park, St Lucia

iSimangaliso Wetland Park has been described as one of the best locations on earth. Take a two-hour boat cruise through the park's estuary, which is home to hippos and crocodiles. Be on the lookout for eagles and kingfishers. The park also offers activities such as kayaking, turtle tours, scuba diving, game viewing, horse riding, and whale watching.

Cycling on Durban’s beachfront promenade

Durban’s beachfront promenade is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Take a walk or cycle along the promenade with your family while taking in the beautiful ocean view. There are a number of restaurants to visit in the area, and lots of fun activities for the whole family.  

Dancing in Shakaland, Eshowe

Learn about Zulu history while enjoying traditional dances, beer, and spear throwing. Visitors have described Shakaland staff as friendly and helpful.

Reptile spotting at Dragon Rock Reptile Centre, Winterton

Get up close and personal with snakes, bearded dragons, and alligators. Expect to get a few snake cuddles while being educated about reptiles by the centre’s amazing staff.

Wet and wild fun at uShaka Marine World, Durban

Animal lovers can watch a dolphin, seal, or penguin show, and visit the largest aquarium in the southern hemisphere. Those hoping to cool down in Durban’s heat can by taking a dip at Wet & Wild. There’s fun for the whole family, and lots to see and do.

Tembe Elephant Park, Maputaland

Come face to face with South Africa’s “Big Five” - elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhino, at Tembe Elephant Park.

Umgeni steam railway, Kloof

Take your children for a ride on an authentic steam locomotive. The one-hour train ride travels from Kloof to Inchanga on certain days and times, so be sure to check the railway’s schedule on its website. Be sure to carry cash with you on the train as there are no card facilities. Santa is on hand to entertain the little ones this festive season, and there will be carols by candlelight for the whole family. Check out their website here. 

Take to the Ballito skies

Enjoy hot air balloon and helicopter rides, gyrocopter flights, skydiving, and paragliding in Ballito with Sky Adventures. The Ballito Microlight School also offers flights along the coastline that are sure to provide amazing views.

Surfing in Margate

Spending your holiday in Margate learning to surf sounds like a lot of fun! ‘Learn 2 Surf’, based in Umzumbe, offer individual and group lessons, so you can tag along friends and family.

Ziplining in Port Shepstone

Fancy screaming “weeee” while travelling up to 160km/h? Lake Eland Zip Lines consists of 14 line slides, with varying lengths and speeds. For those up for a little more adventure, the Zip eXtreme’s 1km straight down slide will see you travelling up to speeds of 160km/h.