Hiking, fishing, flying and more on the Dolphin Coast

Make the most of the long weekend and enjoy all the exciting outdoor family activities on offer on the Dolphin Coast.

Whether you want to go big and tick microlighting off your bucket list or simply enjoy the splendour of nature at the Harold Johnson Nature Reserve – it is all possible right on your doorstep.

1. Hike or picnic at Harold Johnson Nature Reserve

The Harold Johnson Nature Reserve is north of Ballito on the banks of the Tugela River, north of Zinkwazi. The nature reserve offers a selection of hiking trails of varying distances. A small variety of wildlife is located on the reserve such as giraffe, zebra, bush-pig and antelope. Harold Johnson is known for its rich variety of butterflies and bird-life. Camping and picnicking / braai facilities are available.

• Where: Situated off the R102, between Stanger and Mandeni.
• When: Daily from 6am to 6pm
• Contact: 032-4861574
• Cost: R30 per person.

2. Dirty Harry Fishing Charters

Gather the boys, pack in the fishing rods and book a tour on Big Dirty Harry – a magnificent 24ft Tomcat powered by X2 200 Suzuki outboard motors – to check out the North Coast from the warm Indian Ocean’s side. Choose between a five or eight hour trip, or go for the adventurous night fishing option.

• When: Weather permitting, the tours are available upon request and they only cater for private charters so you pay for the boat and they do not fill up the boats with individuals to make up numbers. Make sure to contact them in advance to book a trip.
• Contact: Craig Harris at 082 579 3878
• Cost: Prices range depending on the type of trip and the amount of people, but start from R4500.

4. Feel the Sugar Rush

Everyone in the family will enjoy an outing to Sugar Rush Park! Dads can try out the cycling trails, while the kids go to The Jump Park or meet the furries at Feathers and Furballs animal park while mom relaxes at TUWA beauty spa and everyone can get together for breakfast or lunch at The Digs Kitchen.

• Where: Esenembe Road, Ballito
• When: 6am till 3.30pm
• Contact: 060 997 9996

5. Club Venture

For the adventure lovers, go visit Club Venture and choose between their flying zipline tours or their 70 meter long waterslide.

• Price: Catch the current Zipline special offer: R 399,00 p/p for adults and R 369,00 p/p for kids under 12. The rates include two beverages, a snack pack and a certificate on completion.
• When: Open six days a week – Sunday to Friday from 8am till 5pm, closing at 3pm on Friday.
• Contact number: 082 414 2448 or 032 942 8014

6. Ace Karting

Put on your helmet and hit the accelerator at Ace Karting at the Ballito Junction Mall at level three parking by entrance three. Any ages are welcome, so grab the family and book your spot.

• Price: R100 for 5 minutes which will get you about 15 laps or go for gold and pay R150 for 10 min for about 30 laps.
• When: Every day from 9am to 6pm.
• Contact: 082 867 9955

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