Itinerary Highlights
- Hike the Drakensberg mountains, following trails that wind through valleys, cliffs and slopes
- Explore KwaZulu-Natal’s battlefields, uncovering the stories and legacies of past conflicts
- Spot wildlife on Mkuze’s boat safaris and game drives, from antelope to elusive predators
- Unwind in Durban, enjoying the coastal atmosphere and sea views towards the Indian Ocean
What's Included
- Flights
- Accommodation Throughout
- Car Hire
Kate Anderson
Travel Specialist
Set off on a ten-night self-drive journey that mixes outdoor adventure, wildlife and cultural insight through KwaZulu-Natal, a region of diverse landscapes and rich history.
Pick up your hire car (fully covered) and begin your journey in the rolling hills of the Drakensberg & the Midlands, where hiking trails weave through the mountains and countryside. Soaring to altitudes in excess of 3,000 metres, you’ll come across everything from soaring raptors to trickling rivers and easy walks in Highmoor Nature Reserve.
Next, explore the historic Battlefields, during which knowledgeable guides and interpretive sites bring the stories of past conflicts to life. It’s a chance for you to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s history while enjoying the dramatic landscapes, such as Mangeni Falls.
From history to wildlife, your route continues to the Hluhluwe Game Reserve, home to some of South Africa’s most sought-after wildlife. Here, you can spot the Big Five in various habitats, from open savannah to forested hills, with expert advice from the local rangers.
End with a stay at the Oyster Box Hotel on the Durban Coast, where you can unwind by the ocean and enjoy the relaxed seaside atmosphere. Along the way, you’ll get to choose and experience a balance of activity and leisure, from mountain hikes and scenic drives to wildlife viewing and time to reflect on the region’s sheer natural beauty.
This self-drive offers a practical yet immersive way to explore KwaZulu-Natal, combining independent travel with the guidance that ensures every stop is memorable.
Please note, this is an example tour. To create your own tailor-made itinerary, speak with our Travel Specialists by calling us today.
Itinerary
Day 1 | Fly UK to Durban
Day 2 | Durban – Drakensberg & Midlands
Day 3 - 4 | Drakensberg & Midlands
On the second day in the region, you'll head up to the scenic and beautiful Drakensberg Mountains. Here, you'll spend the next two nights discovering the various hiking routes and activities your hotel offers.
Then, on the third day, spend time exploring the mountain range. The Drakensberg Escarpment (Mountain of Dragons) stretches for over 1,000 kilometres from the Eastern Cape through KwaZulu-Natal up into Mpumalanga as part of the Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window and Three Rondavels. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the scenery is simply breathtaking.
Day 5 | Drakensberg & Midlands – Zululand & the Battlefields
Day 6 | Zululand & the Battlefields
Spend time in Rorke’s Drift, an area famously known for the Anglo-Zulu wars. The lodge runs guided tours to visit the various sites and memorials.
Other activities on offer include a visit to the Mangeni Falls, a visit to Blood River and the site where the Prince Imperial was killed, plus walking and fishing trips.
Day 7 | Zululand & the Battlefields – Hluhluwe
Day 8 | Hluhluwe
Day 9 | Hluhluwe – Durban Coast
Day 10 - 11 | Durban Coast
Durban is a bright and colourful city, thanks to its people, food, culture and activities. At the Oysterbox Hotel, you have the Indian Ocean at your feet, along with a spa and great dining options. You may also choose to go shopping at one of the city’s retail hubs or enjoy the pool and gardens.
On your final day, you can choose to spoil yourself with one of the many treatments on offer before your journey home. The Spa at the Oyster Box Hotel is well known in South Africa as one of the best.
Day 12 | Departure
Kate Anderson
Travel Specialist
Pricing Information & Dates
30th Apr 2025
31st Aug 2025
30th Nov 2025
15th Dec 2025
30th Apr 2026
Kate Anderson
Travel Specialist
Price Includes
- Return International Flights as per the itinerary
- All airport taxes and security charges
- Accommodation and meals as specified
- Transfers as specified
- Activities and excursions as specified
- All entrace fees on sightseeing tours as specified
Price Excludes
- Travel Insurance
- Any meals not specified in the itinerary
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional excursions
Pricing Notes
Why Choose Us?
Passionate travel experts
- We've been leading wildlife travel since our first South Africa tours over 25 years ago
- Our Travel Specialists have lived in their specialist area for years
- We work with local guides to immerse you deeper in our diverse range of experiences
Personal & tailor-made
- You'll speak to your own expert who'll share their first-hand knowledge
- We'll make your itinerary seamless with 24/7 emergency contact available
- Your Travel Specialist will listen to ensure you have the best chance of seeing the wildlife you love
Responsible by nature
- We take care to actively contribute to the conservation of environments we visit
- For select countries, we make a charitable donation on your behalf when you make your booking
- We've partnered with conservation experts and NGOs to curate responsible tours
For the latest travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office check www.gov.uk/travelaware
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