/ 14 March 2010

Durban: heritage

Durban: Heritage

With its incredible forests and dramatic landscapes, outdoors is where you want to be to appreciate Durban.

The Greater St.Lucia Wetlands Park
The Greater St Lucia Wetlands Park has five distinct ecosystems and a unique biodiversity found nowhere else on earth.

It offers everything from Big Five game viewing, gorgeous beaches and some of the best snorkelling and scuba diving in the country. The Greater St Lucia Wetlands Park was declared South Africa’s first Natural World Heritage Site on December 1 1999. It is considered South Africa’s third largest park and extends from Mapelane (Cape St. Lucia) in the South, to Kozi Bay in the North.

  • Tel: +27 31 304 4934 (Durban Tourism)
  • Website

The uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park
The Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park is one of South Africa’s prime eco-tourist destinations and a World Heritage Site. Experience awesome mountain range, wide open spaces, towering sandstone cliffs and hidden valleys, virgin forests and clear rivers.

The Valley of 1000 Hills
The Valley of 1000 Hills Route forms around the majestic valley created by the Mngeni River and its tributaries. Many artists and crafters have been attracted to the beauty and tranquillity of this area which is dotted with cozy guest lodges, friendly pubs and tea gardens with sweeping views over the hills and dams. The main attractions on the 1000 Hills Experience are the dramatic landscape and Zulu culture which is well interpreted at three cultural villages.

  • Tel: +27 31 304 4934 (Durban Tourism)
  • Website

The Midlands Meander
Situated in KwaZulu Natal, the Midlands Meander is just north of Pietermaritzburg and extends from Rietvlei and Currys Post in the east, to Dargle Valley and Fort Nottingham in the west. The stretch is about 80km long and brimming with amazing sights, sounds and activities. From humble beginnings, the Midlands Meander has grown to more than 160 places to eat, drink, sleep, shop and play as well as a diverse and fascinating mix of arts and crafts.

  • Tel: +27 31 304 4934 (Durban Tourism)
  • Website

UShaka Marine World
UShaka Marine World is the biggest theme park in Africa, with an aquarium, water world, underwater adventures and a shopping centre.

  • Address: 1 Bell Street Durban.
  • Tel: +27 31 328 8000
  • Website

Have we left anything out? If you’re a fan of this host city leave your recommendations in the comment box below. Don’t forget an address and website link, along with any other relevant information.