The Wildebeest's guide to South Africa
KwaZulu-Natal attractions
- Amanzimtoti Bird Sanctuary
- Ansteys Beach
- Bothas Pass
- Didima Resort
- Dukuza Museum
- Fort Amiel
- Fort Durnford
- Fort Nottingham
- General Louis Botha's Birth Place
- Greytown Museum
- Howick Falls
- Japanese Gardens, Queensburgh
- Majuba Hill
- Mzimkulwana River
- Paradise Valley Nature Reserve
- Port Shepstone lighthouse
- Richmond Museum
- Skyline Nature Reserve
- Tugela River
- Winterton Museum
Amanzimtoti Bird Sanctuary
Photo © Steven Herbert
Amanzimtoti Bird Sanctuary is about 4.5 hectares in size. It is situated in Umdoni Road, Amanzimtoti, on the inland side of the N2 Highway.
The reserve consists mainly of a small dam surrounded by coastal bush. There is some lawn where one can have a picnic or braai.
Over time a checklist of approximately 150 species of birds has been built up at the sanctuary. The most obvious ones are the various ducks and other waterbirds on the dam.
Vervet Monkeys also call the Bird Sanctuary their home and you need to keep an eye on your food!
There is a self-guided trail through the bush. The bridge across the dam is a good place to look for birds and brilliantly coloured dragonflies.
Photo © Steven Herbert
Some things to look out for:
References and further reading
Reader's Digest Illustrated Guide to the Game Parks and Nature Reserves of Southern Africa - 2nd edi - Author: Editor - Alan Duggan - Year Published: 1991 - Page: 157Top
Ansteys Beach
Afrikaans name: Ansteys-strand
Photo © Steven Herbert
Ansteys Beach is one of the beaches on the Bluff in Durban. It is a popular beach over the weekend.
Ansteys, like all Durban beaches, have warmer water all year.
The beach is popular with sunbathers, surfers and fisherman and there is ample room for everyone.
A small restaurant serves a variety of meals. There is backpacker accommodation nearby.
References and further reading
Getaway - Vol 31 No 04 - Author: - Year Published: 2019 - Page: 26Top
Bothas Pass
Afrikaans name: Bothaspas
Bothas Pass
Photo © Steven Herbert
Botha's Pass is on the R34 between Newcastle and Memel. The pass takes you from a height of 1569 m to 1805 m at the top. It is about 5 km in length.
The pass is in the KwaZulu-Natal province but the border with the Free State is at the top of the pass.
Although Botha's Pass is not one of the most spectacular, or challenging, passes in South Africa it does offer good views over the farmlands below.
There are a handful of shops at the bottom of the pass.
Looking down from Bothas Pass onto extensive grasslands
Photo © Steven Herbert
There is a handful of shops at the bottom of the pass
Photo © Steven Herbert
References and further reading
TopDidima Resort
Afrikaans name: Didima Oord
Didima Resort in the Drakensburg mountains
Photo © Steven Herbert
Didima Resort is situated near Cathedral Peak in the Drakensberg Mountains. It is about 45 km away from Winterton.
The chalets at Didima are based on the design of the temporary dwellings that were used by the San people thousands of years ago. Didima has a restaurant and bar. There is also a camp site nearby.
The surrounding area is great for hiking and there are a number of caves that may be booked. If you are lucky you may see mammals such as Caracal, Genets, Grey Rhebuck and others. The bird checklist for the area is around 170 species.
Didima Resort is managed by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlfe.
References and further reading
Caravan & Outdoor Life - Issue 665 - Author: - Year Published: 2017 - Page: 5Top
Dukuza Museum
Dukuza Museum
Photo © Steven Herbert
The Dukuza Museum is situated in KwaDukuza (Stanger) opposite the King Shaka Visitor Centre. Entrance is free but there is a donation box.
It is a small museum concentrating on local history with exhibits that include Zulu heritage and the growth of the sugarcane and paper industries, all of which are linked closely with the town.
There are also a collection of items such as old gramophones, phones and toys.
Above - Part of the Zulu display
Photo © Steven Herbert
Above - Zulu baskets
Photo © Steven Herbert
Above - Display of old gramophone and other devices
Photo © Steven Herbert
References and further reading
TopFort Amiel
Fort Amiel, Newcastle
Photo © Steven Herbert
Fort Amiel is a reconstruction of a specious fort on the outskirts of Newcastle in KwaZulu-Natal. The fort was originally built in 1876 by the 80th Staffordshire Volunteers under the command of Major Charles Amiel, after whom the fort was named.
The fort sits on a low hill and has good views over the surrounding countryside including over the spot that was used as a wagon drift across the Ncandu River.
There are a number of buildings, exhibits and memorials at Fort Amiel. One of the most interesting is the reconstruction of the cookhouse.
Lookout post
Photo © Steven Herbert
Memorial to those who lost their lives in the vicinity
Photo © Steven Herbert
Officers room inside the museum
Photo © Steven Herbert
Display inside the kitchen
Photo © Steven Herbert
References and further reading
TopFort Durnford
Fort Durnford, Estcourt
Photo © Steven Herbert
Fort Durnford is situated on a hill overlooking the midlands town of Estcourt.
The 'need' for the fort arose after a clash with the indigenous Hlubi people. As it happens the fort was never attacked.
The fort was built, and possibly built, by Major Durnford. The outside walls are 60 cm thick.
In 1910 the fort was abandoned.
When visiting, or passing through, the Estcourt area it is worth it to take the short drive up the hill to visit the fort, which is now a museum.
Above - These wooden stairs leading to the top floor could be raised in event of an attack
Photo © Steven Herbert
Above - A plaque detailing the story of Langalibalele who ended up on Robben Island after being found guilty of high treason.
Photo © Steven Herbert
References and further reading
TopFort Nottingham
Photo © Steven Herbert
Fort Nottingham is situated about 15 kilometres away from the town of Nottingham Road. It is open from Wednesday through to Sunday.
The fort is made up of a collection of small buildings one of which has been converted into a museum.
In 1856 a regiment of soldiers from Nottinghamshire, the 45th 'Sherwood Foresters', was stationed here and that is where the fort got its name.
The troops mission was to prevent raids on the settlers cattle.
References and further reading
TopGeneral Louis Botha's Birth Place
Photo © Steven Herbert
Louis Botha was born at this spot near Greytown on 27th September 1862. He was one of 13 children.
His early military career included him leading a group of Boer soldiers who supported Dinuzulu in his battle against Zibhebhu.
In 1897 he became a member of the Transvaal parliament.
Botha fought in the Second Boer War and was promoted to Commander-in-Chief of the Transvaal Boers.
In 1907 he became Prime Minister of Transvaal and in 1910 he became the first Prime Minister of the Union of South Africa.
References and further reading
Southern Africa from the Highway - Author: AA RSA - Year Published: 1991 - Page: 231Top
Greytown Museum
Photo © Steven Herbert
The Greytown Museum is located in Scott Street in the town of Greytown.
The museum building was originally a house erected in 1879. Originally the building was the residence of the District Surgeon Dr. Daniel Birtwell. It was later taken over by the local magistrate.
Despite its small size this museum is packed with interesting items. It has rooms devoted to different themes such as the military, Zulus, Indian community and more.
Outside the museum building are a few larger items such as a cannon and a Cape Cart.
At the entrance way to the building stands a massive Natal Fig. This tree was apparently planted by Annie Botha over 100 years ago.
References and further reading
TopHowick Falls
Howick Falls
Photo © Steven Herbert
The Howick Falls are located on the edge of the town of Howick, in KwaZulu-Natal.
The Umgeni River passes through the town then drops 95 metres over the falls making for a spectacular sight.
The Howick Falls are easily visible from a view point in the town and there are a number of curio sellers in the area.
Over 40 deaths have been recorded at Howick Falls either from suicides or people accidently being swept over the falls while trying to cross the river.
Below the falls the Umgeni River winds through a deep valley, part of which is a nature reserve.
References and further reading
Places to Visit in Southern Africa - Author: AA RSA - Year Published: 1995 - Page: 131Reader's Digest Illustrated Guide to the Game Parks and Nature Reserves of Southern Africa - 2nd edi - Author: Editor - Alan Duggan - Year Published: 1991 - Page: 137
Road Tripping South Africa - Author: MapStudio - Year Published: 2014 - Page: 104
Top
Japanese Gardens, Queensburgh
Function area and offices at the Queensburgh Japanese Gardens
Photo © Steven Herbert
The Japanese Gardens in Durban are very well known and a popular picnic spot, but the Japenese Gardens in Queensburgh are also a good choice for family gatherings.
Although there are not many 'Japenese' related features the gardens do have beautiful lawns and a few ponds.
There is plenty of place for the kids to run around.
Above - There is plenty of space to have a picnic
Photo © Steven Herbert
Above - Rock feature
Photo © Steven Herbert
References and further reading
TopMajuba Hill
Photo © Steven Herbert
Majuba Hill is the prominent feature of the landscape in the Volksrust area. It is a large flat-topped hill that dominates the skyline.
On the 27th February 1881 it was the site of a battle between the Boers and British during the First Boer War. The British forces, which numbered 405, were led by Major-General Sir George Pomeroy Colley. They occupied the top of the hill. About 450 Boer soldiers, led by Nicolas Smit, stormed the hill and achieved a remarkable victory despite having the inferior position of having to climb the hill.
The British defeat at Majuba helped to bring about an end to the First Anglo-Boer War.
References and further reading
TopMzimkulwana River
Photo © Steven Herbert
The Mzimkulwana River is a short river that is best known as being the one that flows through the magnificent Oribi Gorge.
The river has cut through the rock over millions of years.
The Mzimkulwana River joins the Mzimkhulu River before flowing into the Indian Ocean at Port Shepstone.
References and further reading
TopParadise Valley Nature Reserve
Afrikaans name: Paradysvallei Natuur Reservaat
Photo © Steven Herbert
Paradise Valley Nature Reserve is located near Pinetown and New Germany. It is 170 ha in extent.
The Umbilo River flows through the reserve and forms an attractive waterfall at one point.
The habitat is a mix of grassland and coastal forest. Approximately 4 km of trails wind their way through the reserve.
Paradise Valley Nature Reserve is a very popular picnic area on weekends. Near the entrance is a conference facility and toilet facilities.
There is an admission fee payable.
References and further reading
Chris and Tilde Stuart's Guide to Southern African Game and Nature Reserves - Author: Chris and Tilde Stuart - Year Published: 1989 - Page: 133Getaway - Vol 29 No 12 - Author: - Year Published: 2018 - Page: 71
Reader's Digest Illustrated Guide to the Game Parks and Nature Reserves of Southern Africa - 2nd edi - Author: Editor - Alan Duggan - Year Published: 1991 - Page: 162
Top
Port Shepstone lighthouse
Photo © Claire Herbert
The Port Shepstone Lighthouse was built in 1905 and is painted in a black and white check pattern. It is a quaint structure that stands on the south bank of the Umzimkulu River where it spills into the Indian Ocean.
The light flashes every 6 seconds and is visible for up to 26 sea miles. When it was constructed Port Shepstone actually had an operational harbour.
The lighthouse is fully automatic and has it's own back up power generators in case the main electricity supply goes off. It is made of cast iron and has a circumference of 8 metres.
References and further reading
TopRichmond Museum
The Richmond Museum
Photo © Steven Herbert
The town of Richmond, in KwaZulu-Natal, really has a multicultural heritage and this is evident in the exhibits at the Richmond Museum.
The area around Richmond is perhaps best known as the land where the Byrne Settlers settled in 1850. The museum has exhibits that show the tough life that faced these immigrants. Included in the exhibits are clothing and furniture.
Another exhibit describes what happened at the ‘Trewirgie’ incident and the Bambatha Rebellion.
Other exhibits at the Richmond Museum highlight the cultures of the Zulu and Indian communities.
Above - Tank outside the Richmond Museum
Photo © Steven Herbert
References and further reading
TopSkyline Nature Reserve
Afrikaans name: Skyline Natuur Reservaat
Photo © Steven Herbert
Skyline Nature Reserve was founded in 1962 and is situated between Margate and Uvongo. It is a small reserve that has a large diversity of trees and other plant life.
Besides the hundreds of species of trees there is the chance of seeing mammals such as Bushbuck and Blue and Grey Duiker. The reserve is home to a number of bird species as well.
There are a few short trails through the reserve.
Opening times: 07h00 to 17h00 all year round. Entrance is free and there are no facilities available. Skyline Nature Reserve is administered by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife.
Some of the birds that may be seen at Skyline Nature Reserve
References and further reading
TopTugela River
Afrikaans name: Tugelarivier
Tugela River near Bergville
Photo © Steven Herbert
With a length of 502 km the Tugela River, also known as the Thukela River, is the longest river in KwaZulu-Natal.
It begins its journey to the sea high up in the Drakensberg Mountains where it tumbles down 947 metres at the Tugela Falls. It eventually flows into the Indian Ocean.
The Tugela River is fed by numerous other rivers including the Mooi River, Klip River, Blood River and Sundays River.
The Tugela River near Winterton
Photo © Steven Herbert
The road bridge over the river near the town of Tugela
Photo © Steven Herbert
Railway bridge near the town of Tugela
Photo © Steven Herbert
References and further reading
Conolly's Guide to Southern Africa - Author: Denis Conolly - Year Published: 1982 - Page: 199Getaway - Vol 31 No 04 - Author: - Year Published: 2019 - Page: 48
Reader's Digest Illustrated Guide to Southern Africa - 4th edition - Author: - Year Published: 1986 - Page: 348
Wild Issue 32 - Author: - Year Published: 2015 - Page: 74
Top
Winterton Museum
Behind the Winterton Museum building
Photo © Steven Herbert
The Winterton Museum is housed in an old house, just off the main street, as you enter Winterton from the N3 freeway side.
Inside the building there are collections of books, photographs and items from the battles between the British and Boers and in particular the Battle of Spioenkop.
In the back yard there are a number of exhibits of old agricultural implements and Zulu bee-hive huts.
One of the most interesting exhibits is housed in an open shed at the back. It is the motorhome used by Rear Admiral John Weston and his family to tour South Africa and beyond.
The museum is open on weekdays and on Saturday mornings. It is closed on Sundays and public holidays.
Above - John Weston motor home
Photo © Steven Herbert
References and further reading
TopThis website features affiliate links, meaning we’ll earn a small commission if you purchase through these links.
Copyright Steven Herbert Projects, 2013 - 2023. All rights reserved.