KwaZulu-Natal Archives - AfriCamps Boutique Glamping South Africa

5 Reasons to book your Zululand glamping getaway in 2020

Whether it’s your first time in South Africa and you are planning an authentic wildlife safari, or you are a Durbanite looking for a weekend escape, Zululand in South Africa’s Zulu Kingdom deserves a spot on your 2020 travel bucket list. The area has so much to offer with its rich history and varying landscapes, and, naturally, the all-year-round sunshine is a bonus.

Here are 5 reasons why Zululand is the perfect escape for you:

1. You’re planning your South African tour from Kruger to KZN

Many travellers have discovered the charm and raw beauty of KwaZulu-Natal’s Zululand and Elephant Coast. It’s the road less travelled but is home to some of the most astonishing wildlife that the beautiful South Africa has to offer. It’s about time more local and international visitors made their way to the Zulu Kingdom’s shorelines, vast plains, and rich cultural experiences. Expect various traditional Zulu experiences like visiting a rural Zulu village, drinking Zulu beer, tasting Zulu cuisine, witnessing their rituals, or even visiting a Sangoma. Apart from the unique culture, the area boasts abundant wildlife at a number of private game reserves.

Located just south of Eswatini (previously Swaziland), between Zululand in the west and the Elephant Coast in the east, AfriCamps at White Elephant Safaris in Pongola Game Reserve is now the perfect link in your South African safari. It is the oldest proclaimed game reserve in Africa and a wildlife experience that deserves at least 4 days in your itinerary.

AfriCamps White Elephant Safaris Pongola Game Reserve Glamping Tent

We suggest planning your South African safari as follows:

Start your tour in Hoedspruit in the Limpopo Province to experience some of South Africa’s top private big 5 game reserves (the area is often referred to as South Africa’s safari capital). Make your way south to Hazyview, meander through the Panorama Route and view Mpumalanga’s spectacular landscapes. Do not miss a game drive in Kruger National Park before making your way to eSwatini (on Lonely Planet’s list of top 10 countries to visit in 2020). Here Hlane National Park, eSwatini’s largest protected area, and Malkerns with its impressive arts and crafts should be on your to-do list. Travel south towards KwaZulu-Natal and check-in at AfriCamps at White Elephant Safaris in Pongola Game Reserve, just south of eSwatini’s Lavumisa border. A visit to St. Lucia, isiMangaliso Wetland Park or Hluhluwe on the Elephant Coast is next on your itinerary before finishing your tour in the buzzing port city of Durban to experience South Africa’s beach life.

2. You’re seeking an immersive and educational wildlife experience (without the traffic)

AfriCamps at White Elephant Safaris is our first glamping location inside a private game reserve where a range of exciting guided tours await! You can expect to spot giraffe, buffalo, elephant, rhino, hippo, Nile crocodile, hyena, wildebeest, zebra, warthog, 12 different antelope species, over 350 bird species of which some occur only here, and leopard if you’re lucky.

The game viewing experience in Pongola Game Reserve is unique in the sense that no private vehicles are permitted for game viewing. All tours are conducted by experienced guides, limiting the amount of traffic and maximising the experience. This not only provides a more authentic game viewing experience for our guests, but it’s less invasive for our animals, who are our first priority.

AfriCamps at White Elephant Safaris in Pongola Game Reserve offers both land and water-based safaris. With the 15000-hectare Lake Jozini and the Pongola River at our doorstep, we highly recommend the River Boat Cruise and Elephant Research Project Experience. On land, you can take a guided game drive, a guided bush walk, or go rhino tracking with an experienced guide and get an insight into the Black Rhino Range Expansion Project that we take part in. Each tour will take you close to the action where you will learn all the secrets of the bush and see how every creature plays a role in the circle of life.

AfriCamps White Elephant Safaris Pongola Game Reserve

Rhino spotted during the Pongola River Cruise

OUR TOP ACTIVITY PICK – Elephant Research Project Experience:
White Elephant Safaris offers a full-day tour that is educational, interactive and visual and gives guests an insightful look into the lives of the reserve’s elephant families. It includes spending time with their research and conservation staff.

Board the boat on the Pongola River early in the morning. Spot Nile crocodile and hippo as you make your way across Lake Jozini to hopefully view the elephants! The elephant researcher uses a telemetry device to monitor the distance of the elephants, allowing you to get to the right spot and await their arrival. This is where the magic happens. One by one you will see the elephants approaching for their daily drink. The little ones are in their element when they get to roll around and play in the mud, while the matriarch keeps a watchful eye on her spectators – but don’t worry, the boat keeps a safe distance at all times.

The program continues in the afternoon when you’ll visit the Elephant Research Centre. You’ve already met the elephants face to face, now you’ll get to learn even more about them. Examine elephant sculls, take part in some insightful discussions and debates, and watch the BBC documentary, which explains exactly where our elephants came from and how they got to the shores of Lake Jozini. The story of these giants is inspirational, and the experience is unforgettable.

3. You’re passionate about conservation in South Africa

Pongola Game Reserve and White Elephant Safaris have played a significant role in the conservation of our beloved elephant species (among others) for more than 20 years. One of the beautiful stories to come out of these 20 years is the Space for Elephants Foundation.
The reserve’s elephants were transported from Kruger National Park to Pongola Game Reserve because of elephant overpopulation in Kruger. Kruger National Park needed to find new homes for some of its elephant families, and fast. It would be the first time that a whole herd of Elephant was relocated to another reserve. Dr. Heinz Kohrs, camp owner at AfriCamps at White Elephant Safaris, had dreamt of re-introducing elephant into the area after an absence of nearly 100 years. He immediately took action to make his dream a reality. The surrounding neighbours had to give written permission and agreements were made to create a biosphere. Fences were dropped between farms in order to have enough space for the Elephant family.

Since their arrival, the elephants’ behaviour has been closely monitored. Conservationists noticed that the elephant were trying to migrate like they used to centuries ago, when they weren’t confined by fences, and so The Space for Elephants Foundation was born. During the Elephant Research Project experience, you will find out all about the reserve’s conservation efforts and why it is so important in South Africa today. As soon as you enter the Reserve gates, you are already contributing to the conservation of its wildlife. Guests who embark on various guided activities contribute simply by paying the activity fee which includes a conservation levy.

4. You’re seeking that unique glamping experience

The Zululand area is dotted with fully catered luxury accommodation, but in December 2019 AfriCamps introduced a slightly different accommodation style to the area. Now you can bring the whole family for a self-catering glamping stay in the Reserve that won’t break the bank. Book a tent in the range of R1290 – R2390 per night sharing, depending on the season of your stay. A stay in the reserve has become affordable, but still includes all the luxuries you need for a comfortable stay.
Each AfriCamps tent has 2 bedrooms, a spacious private bathroom, an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, a large deck with excellent braai facilities and an outdoor wood-fired hot tub next to each tent. The camp is secured with electric fences, but do not be surprised to see nyala and warthog passing your tent. Each tent can sleep up to 5 guests.

5. You’re a KZN weekender looking for new places to unwind

So, you’ve explored all the weekend destinations in the area and you’re looking for something new and different… look no further. An easy 3.5-hour drive from Durban takes you to the camp where you can enjoy all your favourite weekend pastimes like boating, fishing, birdwatching, wildlife, or just getting away from the city. Lake Jozini is a popular fishing spot and we have a launch site and jetty available. Guests are welcome to bring their own boats. Order a braai basket and light the fire, soak in the outdoor wood-fired hot tub, go for a dip in the camp pool, and breathe in the fresh Pongola air.

Hello Hoedspruit! Your AfriCamps safari grows to three locations

AfriCamps is about to get a whole lot wilder with unique glamping options in three wild locations! We are very excited to announce that we are opening a new location, AfriCamps at Hoedspruit this November, 40 minutes outside Kruger National Park! With the opening of AfriCamps at Hoedspruit in November, the opening of AfriCamps at White Elephant in Pongola Game Reserve in December, and the already popular AfriCamps at Mackers in Hazyview, you will soon be able to take a wild glamping safari and experience the best of South Africa’s wildlife in three beautiful provinces.

Stop #1: AfriCamps at Hoedspruit, Limpopo province

Bookings are now open! Hoedspruit is becoming increasingly popular among visitors to Kruger National Park and the Panorama Route as it is conveniently located between Kruger and the Blyde River Canyon. 11 tents will be opening on a remarkable property currently known as the Klaserie Caravan Park, a well-known spot among fishermen in the area with a large dam equipped for catch-and-release fishing of Carp, Bass, Bream, and Barbel. All 11 tents will look out onto this dam, which will make for peaceful views from your outdoor wood-fired hot tub or braai. Bring your canoe for a relaxing paddle, and spot Nyala roaming freely on the property, or unwind with a drink by the pool.

Essential to the Hoedspruit experience is a self-drive or guided game drive in Kruger National Park, only 40km away. Camp owner, Louwtjie Roux guides tours departing from the camp. AfriCamps at Hoedspruit is also in close vicinity to well-known private game reserves like Timbavati and the area is known for many conservation and wildlife rehabilitation projects.

Stop #2: AfriCamps at Mackers in Hazyview, Mpumalanga

From Hoedspruit, depart for the next stop, AfriCamps at Mackers. This camp opened in July 2018 and has fast become a favourite among local and international guests. Tours to Kruger, The Panorama Route, Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre & Blyde River Boat Cruise and Seronera Crocodile Farm depart from the camp and can be arranged by your hosts, Ryan and Michelle.

Travel tip: When touring from AfriCamps at Hoedspruit, take the scenic route through Kruger National Park and exit via the Phabeni gate. A further 25 minutes and you’ll reach AfriCamps at Mackers in Hazyview.

We strongly suggest setting some time out to spend at the camp where you can book a spa treatment from the comfort of your tent, explore the Sabie River on your doorstep, spot 250+ bird species and relax at the gorgeous infinity pool.

africamps at mackers hazyview glamping south africa

Find out more and book your stay here.

Stop #3: AfriCamps at White Elephant Safari in Pongola Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal

Another camp on your glamping safari bucket list should most definitely be AfriCamps at White Elephant Safari in Pongola Game Reserve opening 16 December 2019. From the moment you enter the gates, you’ll experience the tranquil atmosphere of the oldest private game reserve in Africa. The reserve is home to buffalo, elephant, rhino, leopard, hyena, giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, warthog, 12 different antelope species, and over 350 bird species, which can be spotted during White Elephant Safari’s range of game viewing activities.

AfriCamps at White Elephant Safari will be one of a kind by offering water safaris on Lake Jozini and the Pongola River. On the water-based elephant experience, your guide and researcher will take you to the shores of Lake Jozini where various elephant families come for their daily drink of water. On the boat cruise, you will be able to spot various bird species, hippo pods, and crocodile.

The safari experience at AfriCamps at White Elephant Safari is slightly different from our other camps as all tours are guided by highly knowledgable and qualified guides and no self-drive game viewing is allowed. This is due to the conservation projects on the Game Reserve and the safety of all guests.

Other activities include guided bush walks, the black rhino range expansion project, where guest will track black rhino on foot, game drives, and fishing/boat hire. For the locals, feel free to bring your own boat for a relaxing day of fishing on the lake.

Back at the camp, unwind among Nyala grazing by the pool or soak up your surroundings from your own private outdoor wood-fired hot tub.

Find out more and book your stay here.

New to AfriCamps?

AfriCamps offers luxurious self-catering tented accommodation on the most beautiful farms, reserves or estates in the country. Each tent has two bedrooms with extra length, queen size beds, and an extra single bunk bed in one of the rooms – perfect for a family of 5! The open plan living room, dining room, and fully equipped kitchen are perfect for your self-catering stay and extra comforts like the indoor fireplace and air conditioning will make you feel right at home. Each tent has a private bathroom with fantastic hot shower, washbasin and flushing toilet. The magic truly happens on the spacious decks looking out over unique South African landscapes. Light the braai and outdoor wood-fired hot tub (at selected locations) and get closer to nature for the ultimate glamping experience! This is the perfect way to experience your South African safari!

africamps hoedspruit greater kruger boutique glamping south africa

An AfriCamps Glamping Safari in Pongola Game Reserve

AfriCamps is off on yet another exciting journey. This time we’re heading to the foot of the majestic Lebombo Mountains in KwaZulu-Natal where the world’s second-oldest private game reserve lies on the shore of the shimmering Lake Jozini. It’s here where you’ll find the popular White Elephant Safaris. You may already know the established White Elephant Safaris from a visit to their bush camp, cottage or safari lodge, but your next visit will be slightly different… It’s official – we’re building 12 AfriCamps tents on the reserve and forming part of the White Elephant Safari experience by December 2019!

Bookings for AfriCamps at White Elephant Safari in Pongola Game Reserve will be opening soon. Keep an eye on our website and social media for updates!

The game reserve has countless remarkable stories to tell and a stay at AfriCamps at White Elephant safari will pull you into those stories like never before.

africamps at white elephant safaris pongola game reserve boutique glamping south africa

Game viewing at Lake Jozini Shoreline. Photo supplied by White Elephant Safaris

AfriCamps at White Elephant Safari will be our second spot in KwaZulu-Natal. This time you can enjoy the AfriCamps concept you have come to love while experiencing all the thrills of an established game reserve where buffalo, elephant, rhino, leopard, hyena, giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, warthog, 12 different antelope species, and over 350 bird species roam the plains and grace the skies.

Think land and water-based safaris, guided bush walks, tiger fishing on Lake Jozini and being accompanied by Nyala antelope at the pool! Spend a day in the life of a rhino or elephant researcher and uncover all the mysteries of these majestic, vulnerable creatures. The experiences at this camp are both thrilling and insightful and will give visitors a practical view of conservation and why it is so crucial.

Rhino Research experience at White Elephant Safaris. Photo: Supplied

On The Reserve

Pongola Game Reserve is a go-to destination for KZN weekenders as well as visitors from afar, seeking adventure, serenity and that ‘African sunset’. The 30 000 hectare reserve shows off with beautiful views, glorious sunsets, therapeutic silence, game drives, guided walks, boat cruises, unique elephant and black rhino research experiences, and behind-the-scenes conservation operations.

africamps boutique glamping south africa

Hippos on Lake Jozini. Photo: Supplied by White Elephant Safaris

Pongola Game Reserve and White Elephant Safari tell the story of nature’s amazing ability to restore despite human interference. As soon as hunters and explorers first reached the lands, the seemingly inexhaustible game started dwindling until President Paul Kruger proclaimed the area the Pongola Game Reserve in 1894, the first of its kind in Africa.

Wars, drought, and pests came and went which had many effects on the land. One of these effects was the eradication of game on the reserve. In 1993 game re-introductions began. Two elephant herds including one albino (or white elephant) were re-located to the “new” reserve. Today, after 100 years, the sounds of nature rule the lands once again and man aids to support rather than exploit it. Conservation lies at the heart of White Elephant Safari where ‘animals have right of way’.

Don’t miss these exhilarating experiences on the reserve:

Safari boat cruises
White Elephant Safari offers unique water-based safari activities on the 15000-hectare Lake Jozini – the focal feature of Pongola Game Reserve. Spot herds of antelope, hippo, crocodile as well as an enormous variety of bird species and the occasional elephant enjoying a relaxing bath.

Safari boat cruise on Lake Jozini. Photo supplied by White Elephant Safaris

Safari game drive
Game drives are conducted in open 4×4 vehicles, early in the morning or late afternoons by a professional guide who will show you larger game and the many varied and interesting smaller species in the game reserve.

Guided walk
Walking trails are very much a part of the White Elephant Safari experience and a favourite among the more active visitors. Being on foot provides a ‘close-up’ encounter with nature. Inhale the smells, be soothed by the sounds and explore the minute details of the wilderness. The duration and speed of your walk will be tailored by your professional guide to suit your fitness and stamina.

Guided walk. Photo supplied by White Elephant Safaris

Tiger fishing/boat hire
Lake Jozini is the most southern lake where tiger fish are endemic. It’s the ideal location for the novice fisherman or expert angler for a tiger fish catch of a lifetime, strictly catch and release, of course. Tilapia, Barber (sharp toothed catfish), Yellowfish, Grass carp, Mozambique and Red Breasted Bream are also found in The Lake. The best time for tiger fishing at Lake Jozini is September through to April.

Elephant research project
The Elephant Research Project is a unique activity offered at White Elephant Safari as an alternative to game drives, walks, boat cruises and fishing. This activity is educational, interactive and visual, and includes spending time with our research and conservation staff. After breakfast, guests depart for a cruise on Lake Jozini to locate and watch the elephants from the boat. After a few hours on the water, guests return to camp.

Elephants grazing the plains on the shore of Lake Jozini

The activity continues in the afternoon with a visit to our Research Centre. The BBC production “Operation Elephant – The Mission” documents the initial re-location of our elephants from the Kruger National Park. Guests will watch this documentary, examine elephant skulls and bones and participate in discussions and debates. Gain insight into the reserve’s history, the re-wilding and re-stocking of animals and find out about the reserves research projects.

Black rhino range expansion project
An adrenalin-raising experience that provides an insight into the rhino’s fascinating world and the WWF Black Rhino Range Expansion Project. With the use of a Telemetry device, follow the rhino’s signal, look for tracks and dung middens and examine our camera ‘trap’ locations as part of our rhino monitoring and conservation project.

Read more about the various conservation efforts supported and enforced by Pongola Game Reserve and White Elephant Safaris:
Elephant Research Project / Operation Elephant | Space for Elephants | WWF Black Rhino Expansion Project

Your hosts

You will be welcomed by the White Elephant Safari Team led by camp owners Dr Heinz and wife Debbie Kohrs. White Elephant Safari is situated on Leeuwspoor farm, where Dr Heinz Kohrs grew up. Dr Heinz and his wife Debbie, have three daughters – Kirstin, Andrea and Clara. The team has a passion for conservation and eco-tourism and is committed to responsible travel that conserves the environment, sustaining the well-being of locals and promoting education.

Dr Heinz (BVSc) is a veterinary surgeon with a practice in Pongola dealing with domestic and wild animals as well as cattle. Dr Kohrs’ special interest lies in the co-existence of man and wildlife. He has also been the driving force behind the reintroduction of elephant, buffalo and rhino into the reserve. He is a founder of the Pongola Game Reserve ‘Space for Elephants’ initiative, which is a partnership between the Pongola Game Reserve and the Space for Elephants foundation (SEF). This project supports conservation and community projects in and around the Pongola Game Reserve. One of the main objectives of SEF is to develop corridors (or ‘highways’) between protected areas to reinstate historic elephant migratory routes.

The accommodation

The 5-star White Elephant safari lodge will close its doors on 31 August 2019, and the new AfriCamps will open in December 2019, offering guests an experience to remember in our luxury 2-bedroom tents, fully equipped for a self-catering stay for up to 5 people. Here you can get closer to nature while enjoying all the comforts of home – like an indoor fireplace, electric blankets, and air conditioning.

AfriCamps at White Elephant Safari will be the 11th location in the AfriCamps portfolio and will share the design of our current luxury tents. For those new to the AfriCamps concept, each fully equipped tent consists of an open plan kitchen, a dining room and a lounge area which leads into two separate bedrooms. Each bedroom has an extra length, queen size bed, and one of the two rooms has an extra single bunk bed. Both bedrooms lead to a spacious bathroom with a large hot shower, basin and flushing toilet.

Inside your AfriCamps luxury canvas tent sleeping up to 5 people. 12 tents will be opening at White Elephant Safari Lodge in December 2019.

Outside, spend some quality family time on the spacious deck with excellent braai facilities, or soak up the views in our outdoor wood-fired hot tubs. After a long day of exploring, unwind at the cristal clear lodge pool looking out over the Savannah-like landscape towards Lake Jozini.

The pool area at White Elephant Safari. Photo: Supplied

White Elephant Safari is easily accessible from the N2 between Johannesburg and Durban.

Quick Facts: Distance from Pongola: 48km (54 mins) | Distance from Jozini: 43km (50 minutes) | Distance from St Lucia: 150km (2 hours) | Distance from iSimangaliso Wetland Park: 103km (1 hour, 50 mins) | Distance from Swaziland border (Golela): 31,5km (43 mins) | Distance from Durban: 342km (4 hours) | Distance from Johannesburg: 464km (5 hours, 40 mins)

Natal Midlands, here we come!

Travelling between Pietermaritzburg and the Drakensberg Mountains in KwaZulu-Natal, you’ll find the Midlands Meander. A tourist route popular for the relaxed atmosphere, picturesque countryside and welcoming people. Here you will experience a variety of stunning nature, adventure activities, South African history, local crafts and delectable country-style food spots.

At the heart of the Natal Midlands, between Nottingham Road and Lidgetton you’ll find the area of Balgowan, home to the new AfriCamps at Gowan Valley on Gowan Valley Guest Farm, opening July 2019.

Bookings are now open for AfriCamps at Gowan Valley, which opens on 15 July 2019! Visit our bookings page to book your spot.

africamps at gowan valley the midlands boutique glamping south africa

Balgowan is a farming area, well-loved for cycling and fishing in the many dams and streams. The area can see all four seasons in one day and you can expect some snow in surrounding areas during winter. The Midlands caters for a wide audience from foodies to adrenaline junkies, to serenity seekers – all in the beautiful and mystical surroundings.

Quick Facts: Distance from Durban: 122km | Distance from Johannesburg: 455km | Distance from Maloti Drakensberg Park: 55km | Distance from Howick: 22km | Durban Airport: 148km

Your hosts, Deanne and Brett Bouwer

Many guests have had the pleasure of staying at the picturesque Gowan Valley Guest Farm in their beautifully decorated guest rooms which have been extensively renovated and redecorated over recent years. The property and its owners, Deanne and Brett Bouwer, have earned a stellar reputation based on previous guest experiences. The Bouwers were first introduced to the AfriCamps concept in August 2018 during a family visit to Oakhurst farm in Wilderness. Their close friends, Jake and Claire Crowther, AfriCamps at Oakhurst’s camp owners, showed the Bouwers the site where AfriCamps at Oakhurst was in construction. The Bouwers were already looking for an alternative new accommodation offering to add to their property and AfriCamps fit the bill. In 2019, Brett and Deanne joined the AfriCamps team and we couldn’t be happier to branch out to the captivating Natal Midlands with 5 brand new AfriCamps glamping tents.

The inside of an AfriCamps luxury canvas tent sleeping up to 5 people. 5 tents will be opening on Gowan Valley Guest Farm in July 2019.

The farm

The farm is truly enchanting with its rolling green hills and fields. Walking through the beautiful gardens dotted with roses, you are suddenly transported to the English countryside. Then the “moos“ of Nguni cattle bring you back to the Natal farm landscape.

The Bouwers farm Nguni Cattle and Golden Kiwis. They also focus on their hospitality offerings which include 13 beautifully decorated guest rooms and catering for small functions – think Christmas parties and family gatherings.

The Activities

The property is graced by the crystal clear Mpofana river which flows strongly through the farm. As part of a water scheme, the river also provides water to the farm. A hollowed-out section in the river is a great spot to go for a dip or enjoy the river from the banks by settling down for a picnic. Try your luck and catch yellow tail or trout – strictly catch and release.

Guests can enjoy a 4km walk through indigenous forest where they will see the enormous 500-year-old Yellowwood tree, pass the river, the newly planted kiwi fields and Nguni cattle. Take a strolls through the gorgeous rose gardens on the farm and settle down at a grassy picnic spot.

Reasons to stay

Weddings: AfriCamps at Gowan Valley is conveniently located for guests visiting a range of popular wedding venues. Only 2km away you’ll find the lovely Ochards Wedding Venue, also owned by the Bouwer family. A 5km drive takes you to The Glades and Zunguness wedding venues. St Ives is 10km away.

Orchards Wedding Venue

Schools: AfriCamps at Gowan Valley also makes the perfect family get-together for parents and kids from the nearby Michaelhouse Boys School, Clifton Prep School and Hilton College and St Anne’s DSG in Hilton. Join us during the next school derby and make a family affair of it.

Events: Many popular events bring visitors to the greater Midlands area. Combine your stay with the annual Midmar Mile that takes place at the Midmar Dam. Be inspired at KZN’s premier Arts Festival or the Hilton Arts Festival at Hilton College. Support your loved ones during popular sporting events like Sani2C or Joburg2C, Durban’s Ironman or the Comrades Marathon (especially during a ‘down run’ from Pietermaritzburg to Durban).

Golfing: With two world-class golf courses around the corner, make a golfing glamping tour of it! Take a swing at Gowrie Farm, only 11km away. This course is known as one of the top 30 most fun courses in the country (and we are serious advocates for fun). Bosch Hoek (10km away) is a beautiful country course with loads of charm and becomes a beautiful display of colour in Autumn. The cosy club house with its fireplace is particularly inviting after a round of golf during winter.

Bosch Hoek Golf Course, Natal Midlands

Top Nature attractions

Howick Falls (23km): The nearby area of Howick is waterfall country. Explore one or all three of the trails at Howick Falls to capture the perfect photo. At Howick Falls, also known as KwaNogqaza which means ‘place of the tall one’, the uMngeni river plummets 95m into a gushing pool. You can hike to the foot of this waterfall via the official Howick Falls Gorge Walk.

Midmar Dam (23km): This well-known dam which also hosts the annual Midmar Mile is perfect for boating, fishing, sailing or just soaking up the sun!

Karkloof (37km): A visit to the Karkloof Nature Reserve promises a mesmerizing experience considering the 80+ bird species flying overhead, and the 88m Karkloof waterfall crashing down from the cliff face. Bring a picnic or enjoy the braai facilities.

The AfriCamps team takes a break from construction and explores the surroundings at Karkloof Falls.

For the more adventurous, the Karkloof canopy tour is a must, or bring along your mountain bike for the beautiful trails.

Karkloof Canopy Tour

Drakensberg Mountains: The Drakensberg Escarpment stretches over 1000 kilometres, so you best do your research before simply ‘hiking the Drakensberg Mountains’. There are various sections, parks, and even provinces that form part of the Drakensberg Mountains.

During your visit to the Midlands, you will be able to access parts of the Central and Southern Drakensberg. Not up for the drive? You can simply view ‘The Giant’ from the Nottingham Road turnoff.

Highmoor Nature reserve (61km): This World heritage site in the Kamberg Valley forms part of the Mkhomzi Wilderness Area and takes you into the Southern Drakensberg mountains surrounded by grasslands and streams. Visit the reserve for hiking trails, fly fishing, rock art sightings.

Maloti Drakensberg Park (53km): Beautiful day walks like the self-guided Giants Cup Hiking Trail and a wealth of rock art sites are must-sees. Fly fishing, rock-climbing, mountain biking, bird watching and swimming or some more options.

Other things to do

Nelson Mandela Capture site (15km): This famous Nelson Mandela Capture Site commemorates a significant moment in South African history with a visitor centre and a world-renowned sculpture. Nelson Mandela was arrested on 5 August 1962 outside of Howick. He spent the next 27 years of his life in prison.

Nelson Mandela Capture Site

Midlands Meander Horse Trails (7.5km): A breathtaking horse trail winds through mountains, hills, dams, and pine trees in Lidgetton, a short 7.5 km drive away. Options include outrides, pony rides and even lessons.

Piggly Wiggly (11km): A must-visit one-stop hub for food, activities and gifts the whole family will enjoy. In the centre of the Highgate Wine Estate enjoy wine tours and tastings in our beautiful family wine cellar. Indulge in breakfasts, light meals, lunches, pizzas, refreshments and, of course, a variety of lovely coffees and teas at the coffee shop. Candle dipping and the miniature steam train ride around the Piggly Wiggly will keep the kids busy on weekends. For the active ones, take part in the 5km Parkrun. Visit Meander Fine Wines for 700 wines from the Cape, Natal and around the world. The Pizza Place offers freshly made country pizza. The Greenery will give you your healthy juice fix along with bagels and salads. Stock up on meat from The Pantry and visit chocoholics can visit Chocolate Heaven for the chocolate dipping experience… or just to buy some delicious chocolates.

Piggly Wiggly

A visit to Notties Junction (12km): Indulge in all the quirky finds while shopping at The Junction.
16 unique shops invite guests to grab a bite to eat, stretch their legs, or pick up some souvenirs.