LOCAL and international tourists have found treasure, and as expected, the influx keeps Richards Bay and the surrounding regions on the map.

Indoni Yamanzi, a hidden gem on a still lake
SNUGGLED between the township and rural area, and on the foot of Mangezi Lake, Indoni Yamanzi Grill and Bar boasts four accommodation rooms, a bar, a grill, and a private functions conference room, which makes it a perfect wedding venue.
Indoni Yamanzi was built in 2022 and started operating in 2024. From what was a forgotten spot, a former water processing plant, rose a gem that welcomes local and out-of-town elites.

The picturesque establishment has provided a boost for the local economy by bringing tourism activities.
Its managing director and owner, Simphiwe Hadebe, reckons the journey to this day has been nothing short of “crazy, challenging and fulfilling”.
“What began as a search for land to build a student accommodation led to this. We didn’t expect that a bare land could one day become a tourist attraction, with so much potential,” Hadebe said.

He is proud that Richards Bay has this to offer to tourists. His plans include adding zip lines and boat rides on the Mangezi Lake. “Tourism is back, and this is the endgame.”
A stone’s throw away from the University of Zululand, Hadebe admits that one of the challenges they faced was road access to the spot.
“Bringing urban spaces to the rural areas that were previously neglected is a dream come true.”
The wide lake and surrounding greenery add to the beauty of the scenery.
Indoni Yamanzi employs 20 full-time staff and seven casual workers, helping mitigate unemployment in the town.

Retreat on the waterfront
Overlooking the Richards Bay Harbour, Zula Beach has become a household name for lovers of serenity and entertainment alike.
The beach club offers culinary excellence, colourful cocktails and live entertainment, and is a little paradise for those who are looking for a lazy day along the harbour, watching ships enter and exit.

Zula Beach Club is also a preferred venue for concerts and a string of outdoor events, while the waterfront provides a relaxing feel.
A brainchild of Nhlakanipho Tembe, Zula Beach is a space for healing and pleasure, with an ultimate retreat atmosphere.
It is conveniently placed next to BON Hotel Waterfront, ensuring that guests add an element of entertainment to their hotel stay, during the day and throughout the night.

Cruising into sunset

Dockside Harbour Cruises, on Richards Bay Harbour waters, is a favourite for local and international tourists, who prefer a relaxed boat ride, watching the sunset. Mazwi Dubazana, the boat guide, shares with passengers all that the harbour has to offer, while they enjoy sundowners and snacks. Every cruise is educational, and it highlights a commercial aspect with each experience.

Guests experience a scenic journey through one of the country’s busiest natural ports.
While cruising on a good day, and when the tide is high, crocodiles, dolphins and humpback whales may be spotted.
Wiseman Zikhali, the captain of one boat, navigates the harbour with ease. He knows the body of water like the palm of his hand.
The harbour is a hive of commercial activities involving the traffic of cargo ships, terminals and a string of old-fashioned and modern-day restaurants.

Since the Richards Bay Harbour is surrounded by pockets of undeveloped land, it is undergoing further development, making it the biggest deep-water port in Africa.
As for the cruises, special personal moments can be celebrated, either in groups or solo trips. At the end of the day, one would be in awe of industrial activities and the natural charm that the Richards Bay harbour has to offer.

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