To see who is proudly zululand in the 8th edition of So Much to Do, Zululand Visit Here
The heart of the Zulu nation is full of surprise and wonder, with large areas of untamed and pristine wilderness. As we head north from Durban and past Richards Bay we eagerly look forward to our encounters with all five of Africa’s big game in the northern regions.
Here we can try and picture in our minds what it was like in a land before. The first game reserve we reach is also the oldest, and Hluhluwe-Imfolozi can best be described as follows:
“Set in the heart of Zululand, the oldest game reserve in Africa where Zulu kings such as Dingiswayo and Shaka hunted and put in place the first conservation laws, where today the “big five” of African legend stalk the verdant savannah. Established in 1895, game viewing is the prime attraction.” Sourrce: Ezemvelo Wildlife
Heading further up the coast we discover Lake St Lucia and the Eastern Shores, making up the largest estuarine system in Africa. Declared a Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999, the preservation of this magnificent area is secured for future generations.
Of vital international importance, this Wetland is habitat to migrating birds such as the waders that breed in northern Eurasia, migrating here to escape the northern hemisphere winters. The area is also a safe haven to duck and other water birds, providing shelter from severe droughts elsewhere. From here these birds will then migrate back north to restock other wetlands in Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
It is here we can dive into the warm sub-tropical waters of the great Indian Ocean, and discover the underwater world of coral reefs, a teaming world of bright colours and fascinating creatures. Futher up the coast, Sodwana Bay is one of Southern Africa’s premier dive sites and has an extensive community offering adventure and leisure activities.
All along the coast we find pristine sandy beaches, coastal dunes, lake systems, swamps, and extensive reed and papyrus wetlands. This has resulted in a natural habitat and diversity hotspot, with more than 600 bird species being recorded by Bird Life SA. They have managed the Zululand Birding Route for over a decade now, and have created one of the region’s top routes.
Heading inland we link up with the Heritage Route, the R66 from Pongola to Gingindlovu, following one of the oldest trade routes through Zululand.
The Pongola Biosphere Reserve was first proclaimed a conservation reserve in 1894 by Paul Kruger and is one of the top eco-destination in South Africa. Tiger fishing is one of the highlights on the Pongolapoort dam.
Along the route, visit cultural villages and heritage attractions, such as KwaBuluwayo, Shakaland and Stewarts Farm, all within a stones throw from the iconic Mandawe Cross. Other attractions include museums, battlefield sites and monuments.
The biodiverse Ongoye Forest, lushly wooded and teaming with birdlife is a must see, or perhaps take a walk on the Dlinza Forest Boardwalk. accessible of Zululand’s
The cover looks awesome well done Barry and team !