From Beaches to Big Five: Your Family-Friendly KwaZulu-Natal Itinerary
If you’re looking for a holiday that blends wildlife safaris, golden beaches, mountain hikes, and charming countryside – all without leaving one province – then KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) is your ultimate family road trip destination.
This route lets you tick off all the highlights, from Durban’s vibrant beachfront to Big Five safaris in Hluhluwe, and ends with peaceful escapes in the Drakensberg and Midlands. Along the way, ANEW Hotels & Resorts offer the perfect places for families to recharge, with spacious rooms, pools, and easy access to the best attractions.
Stop 1: Durban & Umhlanga – Beaches and Buzz
Kick off your adventure with a few days in Durban. The kids will love splashing at uShaka Marine World, biking the Golden Mile promenade, or browsing the colourful Victoria Street Market. For shopping, dining, and indoor fun, Gateway Mall in Umhlanga is a must-stop.
Head just north to ANEW Hotel Ocean Reef at Zinkwazi Beach. With direct beach access, self-catering options, and a family-friendly pool, it’s the ideal first overnight on your coastal journey.
Drive Time: Start at King Shaka International Airport – Durban is only about 30 minutes south; Umhlanga about 15 minutes north of the airport.
Must-Stop Photo Spot: Snap a family photo at the Umhlanga Lighthouse, one of the province’s most recognisable coastal landmarks.
Stop 2: Lake St Lucia & iSimangaliso Wetland Park
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is pure magic for families. Picture boat cruises with hippos, crocs, and rare birdlife; snorkelling in crystal waters; or evening drives spotting bush babies and nocturnal animals. Take a picnic basket and stop at Cape Vidal — safe swimming and sheltered beaches make it perfect for kids.
Drive time: About 3 hours from Durban or 2 hours
Must-Stop Photo Spot: The St Lucia Estuary boardwalk at sunset, a spectacular backdrop of flaming skies, mangroves and hippos.
Stop 3: Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve
No trip through KwaZulu-Natal is complete without a safari. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is the oldest proclaimed game reserve in Africa and home to the Big Five. Guided drives or self-drives here will keep the whole family wide-eyed and excited.
ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe is just around the corner and makes safari planning simple. Families can enjoy the pool, outdoor play areas, evening buffets and the Family Rooms – plus ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe offers Game-Drives through the park making it an ideal location to enjoy the park from.
Drive Time: 1 hour from St Lucia to Hluhluwe town, then about 20 minutes to the park gate.
Must-Stop Photo Spot: Hilltop Viewpoint inside Hluhluwe for panoramic views of the park’s rolling hills and watering holes.
Stop 4: Sodwana Bay – Coral Reefs and Adventure
This stretch of coast is famous for diving and snorkelling, and it’s one of the few spots in the world where you might snorkel alongside whale sharks. The beaches are also perfect for sandcastle competitions and family downtime.
Drive Time: About 1.5 hours north of Hluhluwe.
Must-Stop Photo Spot: The main Sodwana Bay Beach lookout has dramatic dunes and turquoise water that will make for a stunning family shot.
Stop 5: uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Mountains
After the heat of the coast, the Berg’s cool mountain air is a treat. Hike gentle trails, enjoy family picnics, or challenge older kids to tackle a climb to Tugela Falls.
Nestled within the dramatic amphitheatre of the mountains of northern Drakensberg, ANEW Resort Vulintaba is a picturesque country escape near Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal. Families can enjoy a stopover at the hotel in the Family Room and soak up the views from the pool
Drive Time: Roughly 7–8 hours from the North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal (or break it up with stops along the way).
Must-Stop Photo Spot: Amphitheatre viewpoint at Royal Natal National Park, one of South Africa’s most iconic mountain backdrops.
Stop 6: Midlands Meander
End your road trip on a creative note. The Midlands are full of artisan shops, country cafes, and farm stalls. Stop for pancakes, pick up local crafts, or simply enjoy the rolling scenery.
Stay nearby at ANEW Hotel Hilton, perfectly placed for exploring the Midlands. Its old-world charm and modern comforts make it a welcoming last stop before heading home.
Drive Time: About 3 hours from the northern Drakensberg to Pietermaritzburg.
Must-Stop Photo Spot: Howick Falls, a dramatic 95-metre waterfall right in the middle of town.
A Journey Packed with Highlights
A KwaZulu-Natal family road trip is the perfect way to balance adventure with relaxation. With wildlife, beaches, mountains, and culture all in one province, the journey is just as exciting as the destination. And with ANEW Hotels & Resorts dotted along the route, you’ll always have a family-friendly place to rest and recharge
