Durban vs. the Kwa-Zulu Natal North Coast
It’s a little like comparing apples with pears because both of these iconic vacation destinations offer travellers so many incredible experiences. Without a doubt, Durban is more suitable for the family as it is an amazing fun-filled place in which every member of the family can find exactly what delights them most – and the Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN) North Coast possibly would be more suitable for the quieter traveller or honeymoon couple just wanting to get away from the madding crowd.
Both of these destinations, however, offer an abundance of great activities so all we can do is point out a few of the best and let you make your own decision about where you would prefer to go….
Durban
Apart from its fabulous beaches, the colourful Rickshas that bob and sway up and down the beachfront road, the excellent Aquarium where the kids can delight to watch sea creatures at play, and so much more fun filed family activity, Durban has many other attractions and here are just a few of them…
The Durban Waterfront – where you can get a moonlit Gondola cruise. Soak up the magic as you glide down the canals in a Venetian-style gondola. Let the glittering lights of Durban Point Waterfront, one of South Africa’s most celebrated new developments, dazzle you as you peacefully slide below bridges and down elegant waterways.
Take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the city as you embark on the Durban City half-day tour. This tour includes a variety of stops and gives tourists a chance to see Durban first-hand and learn all about the people and its history.
History buffs will love a re-enactment of the battles at Rourke’s Drift and Isandlwana. Visit the eerie battlefield of Isandlwana, where British troops were massacred by the Zulu army in 1879, then continue to Rourke’s Drift, where a handful of British soldiers heroically held a mighty Zulu regiment at bay!
An absolute must for all tourists to this city is a visit to uShaka Marine World, a 16-hectare theme park that comprises 8 major attractions including uShaka Sea World, uShaka Wet ‘n Wild, uShaka Sea Animal Encounters Island, uShaka Beach, and more. These are just a few of the huge range of attractions, so speak to your hotel concierge at any good hotel in KZN and they can tell you of many more – and watch this space for future articles on Durban and its surrounds.
The KZN North Coast
Also known as ‘the Dolphin Coast,’ KZN’s North Coast is surely one of South Africa’s most scenic stretches of coastline. Its secluded bays, beautiful beaches, sugarcane fields and it’s many attractions make it one of the travellers to this unique region’s favourite destinations.
It is favoured by the locals too, especially in winter, as it has a balmy, subtropical climate and the warm waters of the Indian Ocean make it a pleasure to catch a surf or just take a leisurely dip.
A few other favourite attractions are…
The Tembe Elephant park – For those who would like to get up close and personal with these massive but majestic giants of the wilds, this is a favoured spot, but be warned, Elephants are not to be toyed with and should always be treated with absolute respect!
Deep sea Diving in Sodwana Bay – For the more adventurous take a trip to magnificent Sodwana Bay, said to be one of the top 10 Dive resorts in the world. It is situated within the reaches of iSimangaliso Wetland Park, an iconic nature preservation area that needs no introduction.
Get your kicks on Route 66! This wonderful road trip not only provides an insight into the rich history of this area but takes one through the heart of Zululand with an impressive array of nature reserves, hot water springs and so much more.
Combine Beach And Nature At This Stunning Resort
On the wild shores of Zinkwazi Beach, located approximately 59km away from King Shaka International Airport is ANEW Hotel Ocean Reef, a fully-equipped, ultra-comfortable 4-star hotel in one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most nature-rich locations. There is ample opportunity to reconnect with yourself while you stay just a pebble’s throw from both the beach and the bush.
Surrounded by indigenous coastal dune lands and milkwood forests, guests at ANEW Hotel Ocean Reef have direct access to the beach and lagoon via a private boardwalk. Experience the beautiful natural landscapes of the beach and bush of Zinkwazi and enjoy the surrounding area too, rich in activities with many golf courses, game reserves, and heritage sites to visit.
One would have to say that this amazing resort gives the North Coast the edge, so book now to avoid disappointment. A visit to here, Durban, or any part of Kwa-Zulu Natal, however, will delight you and your family, eliciting unforgettable memories of a vacation of a lifetime!
