As the crisp, cooler months approach, the #kznsouthcoast comes alive with the arrival of the Greatest Shoal on Earth – the Sardine Run. Visitors to our golden shores are treated to a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle as millions of silver sardines head north along the coastline, bringing with them hungry predators from the sea and the skies.
For keen divers, there is no better experience than heading out to Aliwal Shoal or Protea Banks, both world-renowned dive sites and Marine Protected Areas, to experience the Sardine Run up close. Charter boats are readily available for divers, snorkellers, and anglers looking to enjoy this global phenomenon, with microlight flips a great option for a bird’s eye view.
If you prefer to remain on land, we have endless golden sandy beaches to enjoy the action that comes close to shore, with the #kznsouthcoast boasting the highest number of Blue Flag Beaches in the province! Our subtropical climate means you can swim, surf, snorkel, or sunbathe throughout the year, and the many tidal pools offer protected bathing for families.
But the adventure doesn’t stop at the shoreline. Head into the hinterland where you will discover incredible gorges, valleys, coastal forests, and farmlands ideal for offroad adventure, hiking, biking, or birdwatching. To enhance the experience, South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) recently launched two new nature trails.
For a relatively short tour of the hinterland, try the 8km Weza Hiking Trail. Here, a guide will share the region’s rich cultural history while you hike across two amaKhosi areas before reaching the Mkhoba Waterfall. For something a bit more immersive, you could try the 71km Umzumbe River Trail that connects the hinterland with the coast. On this hike, you will enjoy authentic homestays while learning more about Zulu culture from knowledgeable local trail guides.
With its warm climate and nutrient-rich soil, the #kznsouthcoast has an abundance of agriculture with farm adventures to enjoy! The Agri-CULTURE Tours give you a chance to try the delicious produce and freshly-made goods, with many stops offering fishing, hiking, and biking as well.
SCTIE has also just launched the Mission Tourism Route, a must-try tour that gives insight into the history of Roman Catholic Mission Stations dotted through the region. Unlocking the stories of the Trappist Monks dating back to the 1800, the tour stops at The Capuchin Adoration Convent, Maris Stella Mission, Assisi Mission, and Maria Trost Mission for a full day of religious and historical enlightenment.
Thrill seekers won’t be disappointed on the #kznsouthcoast with excitement from shark cage diving in the Indian Ocean to extreme adventures in Oribi Gorge – one of two epic gorges found in this region. The award-winning Wild 5 Adventures found here boasts a number of adventure activities including the one-of-its-kind Wild Gorge Swing. This 55-storey drop off the incredible Lehr’s Falls – directly into the gorge – is considered the highest swing of its kind in the world! There’s also the 110m abseil to try, as well as rafting, paintball, and quad biking.
The nearby Lake Eland Game Reserve is the ultimate African safari, with hiking, biking and game drives a great way to view the wildlife. You can continue to find some heart-thumping action by crossing the 80-metre suspension bridge which sits an impressive 130 metres off the ground, boasting some of the best views around. The adventure continues with the Zip Line Tour which has 14 slides zigging across the gorge, making it the longest zip line of its kind in Africa. The first slide is the Zip eXtreme which is a 1km straight drop reaching speeds of 160 kilometres per hour – not for the faint-hearted!
If taking in the ocean views and beautiful wildlife from the greens is more your style, then you’re spoilt for choice along the #kznsouthcoast! There are 11 quality courses along the ‘Golf Coast’ stretching from Scottburgh to Port Edward and inland to Harding. No matter your handicap, you will find a course to suit your mood, winding your way through indigenous forests while taking in views of farmlands, nature reserves, and the exquisite Indian Ocean.
Get out and uncover adventures on the #kznsouthcoast!
Pictures: Supplied
