Experience a cultural adventure on the KZN South Coast.
As travel trends shift towards authentic tourism, more and more travellers are looking for immersive experiences that connect them with local culture rather than focusing on traditional tourist hotspots. To meet this need, the South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) developed the Great Drive Out Tours that explore the KZN South Coast’s natural world and heritage.
“Great Drives Out takes visitors beyond the well-trodden tourist paths, offering a glimpse into the untamed beauty and welcoming spirit of our region’s hinterland,” explains Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of SCTIE. “This initiative is designed to encourage responsible and authentic heritage explorations in scenic environments, fostering meaningful connections between diverse communities.”
The routes are are incredibly scenic, covering hills, forests and rivers. Craft shops and traditional restaurants are also included on the routes.
1. Malangeni Experience
Explore the historic Botha House, Umdoni Park Nature Reserve, Nkomba Nature Reserve, and iconic golf courses like Umdoni Country Club and Selborne Country Club. Savour authentic cuisine at Buzy Corner Shisanyama and unwind on the pristine Pennington Beach.
Location: Emalangeni and Pennington | Contact: Maxwell Mhlongo on 039 682 7944 | 083 522 8122 | maxwell@sctie.co.za
2. Mission Tourism Route
Visit historical and religious landmarks that touch on the Roman Catholic Mission Stations within the region and the interesting story of the Trappist monks. Head to the Capuchin Adoration Convent, Maris Stela Mission, Assisi Mission, and Maria Trost Mission, offering a serene and spiritual experience in the heart of the KZN South Coast.
Location: St Faiths Road, Umzumbe | Contact: Mandy Massey on 082 967 1620 | mandy@missiontourism.co.za
3. Umzumbe River Trail
This is an epic 6-day, 71km hiking adventure starting at Phungashe Dam and ending at Sea Park Beach. Experience views for days, river crossings, and cultural homestays with six Zulu clans, providing an authentic insight into their traditions and way of life.
Location: Umzumbe | Contact: Patrick Shinga on 039 682 7944 | patrick@sctie.co.za
4. Gamalakhe Township Experience
Take a deep dive into the township’s history, including a visit to Tin Town with insights from locals. Enjoy an authentic ‘Kasified Experience’, featuring local taverns, quad biking, paintball, car spinning shows, and shisanyama delights at Sbucie’s Kitchen.
Location: Main Road, Gamalakhe Township | Contact: Mbongeni Mthembu on 073 092 9818 | mbongenimthembu900501@gmail.com
5. KwaXolo Caves Adventures
Discover 100 000-year-old San rock paintings at the KwaXolo Caves via a via Ferrata system (a climbing route using steel cables and rungs fixed to rocks). Enjoy stunning mountain views, a suspension bridge, and tranquil picnic spots near a cascading waterfall. More developments at this iconic site are underway, with the construction of a zipline and restaurant.
Location: KwaXolo, Dumezulu | Contact: Shaun Makhanya on 074 887 3742 | makhanyashaun@gmail.com
6. Oribi Gorge Adventure
Explore the dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and stunning vistas of Oribi Gorge, and experience adrenaline-pumping activities such as Africa’s highest gorge swing, ziplining, white-water rafting, and horse riding. Here, you’ll also be able to witness the Cape Vulture colony up close and take in breathtaking views from Leopard Rock.
Location: Oribi Gorge | Contact: Mandla Khawula on 082 708 7030 | thembelatours@yahoo.com
7. Weza Hiking Trail
A trained local guide takes visitors on the 8km trail from the junction of the Mawane and Weza rivers across two amaKhosi areas before finishing at the Mkhoba Waterfall. A shorter hike to the waterfall is also possible. There is great birding along this route, with the option of overnight stay at Ntozakhe homestay, providing visitors with an authentic Zulu experience.
Location: Harding | Contact: Gcino Ntozakhe on 078 396 2426 | gcinonkozakhe@gmail.com
Led by experienced tour guides
The Great Drives Out experiences are led by enthusiastic and experienced tour guide. “This is not only an enriching experience for the visitor, but also contributes greatly towards rural tourism, supporting sustainable tourism initiatives on the KZN South Coast,” continues Dr Sibiya.
Visit www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za for more information.
