Kwazulu-Natal

The Kwazulu-Natal province lies along the northeastern coast of South Africa. It borders three other countries--Mozambique, Lesotho and Swaziland, The eastern edge has the beautiful, turquoise Indian Ocean, while the western edge is flanked by jagged mountain peaks. Coastal lowlands gently give way to the central Natal Midlands, a series of rolling hills and plateaus. Moving farther west across the region reveals two mountain ranges, the Drakensbergs and Lebombo Mountains. Bisecting the region is the Tugela River. The complex topography of Kawzulu-Natal gives it diverse habitats, like subtropical thickets, forest, savanna and alpine grasslands, in which to go game-viewing. Within the region there are several private game reserves, wilderness areas and nature reserves, including the Phinda Private Game Reserve, Hluhluwe Umfolozi Reserve and Samara Private Game Reserve. A wide array of wildlife roam these reserves, such as cheetahs, lions, leopards, white and black rhinos, nyala antelope, red duiker, wild dogs, aardvark, elephant and buffalo.

The Drakensberg are a dramatic series of basalt peaks whose tallest apex stands 11,424 feet tall. They rise up out of four fertile valleys to create a breath-taking landscape dotted with waterfalls ideal for hiking, landscape photography or simply enjoying a sundowner cocktail from the veranda of a charming hotel. The endlessly spectacular views give way to hidden gems such as the San rock art dancing across cave walls, rare plant life and elusive wildlife. Along with the myriad bird species, visitors may also see the rare white rhino, black wildebeest, many types of antelope, Chacma baboons and chameleons.

Durban is the region's largest city, sitting in the southeastern corner, right on the coast. The city boasts a striking beachfront skyline, rich Zulu cultural influences, one of the largest aquariums in the world and Umgeni River Bird Park. In addition to being the busiest port in South Africa, there is the King Shaka International Airport, several major highways and the commuter rail service to help visitors access the city.

Zululand is the remnants of an ancient kingdom that still thrives today off the tourism their extensive wildlife reserves brings them. The area offers stunning vistas of sweeping savanna plains and undulating hills. It was the site of the World Wildlife Fund's 'Black Rhino Range Expansion Project'. Travelers can visit a Zulu village and learn of their rich history, marvel at their beautiful adornments or watch the traditional warrior dance being performed.