Discover 7 South Coast treasures

The South Coast area offers a variety of cultural excursions, natural adventures, historical discoveries, and retail and dining experiences. “The region is a well-established tourism destination with endless sites and activities to explore,” said Phelisa Mangcu, CEO of Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT).

“But even some of our regular visitors would be surprised to discover the many hidden treasures that are found along our coastline and within the hinterland. This year calls for exciting adventures with loved ones, which is why we’re sharing some of the KZN South Coast’s best-kept secrets for everyone to enjoy.”

1. South Coast shipwrecks
With its extensive yet treacherous coastline, the waters off the KZN South Coast are home to many shipwrecks with shoreline museums sharing the fates of these intrepid travellers.

Visitors can peruse the ancient relics at the Port Shepstone Maritime Museum or take a stroll around the Sao Joao Portuguese Monument in Port Edward which tells the tales of the 1552 Sao Joao shipwreck.

Other shipwrecks divers can explore include The Uni XII in Pennington, The Nevonia 1934 in Umzumbe, The Nightingale 1933 in Palm Beach, The Ivy 1876 in Glenmore, and the Sao Bento 154 in Port Edward.

2. Mzamba Fossils and Petrified Forest (Port Edward)
The incredible Petrified Forest has great hikes among the trees which were actually washed downriver and deposited in the area millions of years ago. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the forest which includes viewing the Mzamba fossils, a series of marine fossil beds exposed along the prominent reefs near the Mzamba River.

3. Weza Forest (Harding)
Inland within the forestry plantation is the iconic Ingeli Mountain, at the foot of which is the beautiful Weza Forest nature reserve – also known as Ingeli Forest. Visitors can either enjoy a scenic walk, birding or go biking along the trails, looking out for baboons, vervet and samango monkeys and tree dassies.

4. Vulture View Hide (Oribi Gorge)
Located near Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve is an ecologically significant site where the endangered Cape Vultures gather to feed, mate and nest – all of which can be safely viewed by birders. Photographers and nature lovers can enjoy the special privilege of viewing this breeding colony of around 150 Cape Vultures up close.

5. KwaXolo Caves Adventures (near Margate)
Culture and adventure combine as visitors are led along the mountainside on a unique hiking experience. The iconic caves are accessible through a steel cable-and-rung system where hikers get the chance to view, first-hand, the ancient San artwork adorning the walls.

6. Ntelezi Msani Heritage Centre
More local culture can be experienced at this incredible creative arts and heritage facility which plays an important role in the preservation of the local history. Visitors can enjoy a truly authentic cultural experience, learning more about African history, traditions and indigenous knowledge.

7. KwaNzimakwe Cultural Experience
This is an exciting trail network just inland of the Mpenjati Nature Reserve. Within this hinterland space, visitors can experience the area’s natural beauty as well as local culture and traditions. Hikers, birdwatchers and 4×4 enthusiasts will all find their place along these trails.

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