Leisure Portfolio Association

6 Ways to Have Fun on the South Coast of KZN

There is no denying it – the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal is a magnificent area with so much to do, but often the real gems are the ones that only the locals know and love. The type of places that takes a bit of research to find or taking the advice of your chatty Receptionist at your Resort. So LPA took some local advice and here is our list of six ways to have fun on the South Coast…just like a local.

Ingungumbane Trail

Where? Port Edward.
Suitable for any family member (including children) granted they can manage a wee climb
4 km circular climb (takes about three hours to do)
Moderate fitness level

This circular trail is set on the Umtamvuna River, which forms part of the most southern part of the Drakensberg Reserve. This hike is a wonderful way to explore the true natural wonders of the area. Although it isn’t particularly long hike, it is a fairly steep one at certain places. Please don’t let this scare you! The spectacular views of the Bulolo River, the valley and the forest certainly make the steep climbs well worth it.

The Wild Slide

Where? Oribi Gorge
Suitable for adventurous folks (this is a milder adventure compared to the Wild Swing)
Starting point Oribi Gorge Hotel

The Wild Slide is a guided tour and the perfect way to experience the beautiful sights of the South Coast. Zip-line across the beautiful gorge in a secure harness and see the Lehr’s Waterfall, Baboon’s Castle and other matchless views of the area. The cables are strung 165 metres above the tree tops and truly give the guests a bird’s eye view of the nature surrounding the Gorge.

Umzumbe Surf Lessons

Where? Umzumbe Beach
Suitable for all ages and skill levels
Each lesson is an hour long and includes all the relevant equipment
Available seven days a week
Booking is essential

Have you always wanted to learn how to surf? Is the idea of being on a board in the breakers irresistible to you? Why not take a trip to Umzumbe? SA Surfari offers surf lessons from youngsters to more seasoned bodies and at any skills level. Prices are tailored according to whether you want to have a private lesson, semi-private or group lessons. Experienced surfers can rent boards. This is the perfect activity to get your dose of vitamin sea.

Ramsgate Butterfly Valley

Where? Ramsgate
Suitable for the whole family – four a few hours of relaxing entertainment

If you love to look at the little intricate things in life or have a heart for magnificent creatures… make sure Ramsgate Butterfly Valley is a must do item, on your South Coast checklist. What makes Butterfly Valley unique is that they specialise in South African butterflies and don’t just import pupae, which means they are able to show visitors the entire life-cycle of these amazing winged-creatures. Butterfly Valley is a perfect educational outing for the whole family; a place to relax, unwind and appreciate the small things in life.

Beaver Creek Coffee Estate

Where? Port Edward
Booking is essential in peak/holiday seasons
Crop Tours are at 12 noon (booking is essential)

Beaver Creek believes that “to love coffee is to live for coffee”. This motto has inspired the three generations involved in running this family business and perfecting their speciality coffees. The family who started with four trees in 1984, to the 60 thousand plus trees currently, offer visitors magnificent daily crop to cup tours and have a whole range of speciality coffees, freshly brewed for visitors to taste. Couple the tours with the yummy light meals and decadent coffee served at the on-site Café and it is no wonder visitors are flocking to Beaver Creek.