One of the underrated regions of South Africa, in my opinion, is KwaZulu-Natal in the southeast of South Africa. On the east coast, you find two of the most beautiful national parks in South Africa: Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park and iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
South Africa markets itself as "the world in one country," and in KwaZulu-Natal, you find exactly that: the world in one province. North of Durban, you discover the best game reserves in South Africa, pristine beaches, and to the west, the majestic Drakensberg mountains along with the temperate Midlands. To the south, you are greeted by miles of subtropical coastal stretches. It's no wonder that Durban is also called "the Miami of Africa."
In this province, there are two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park and the majestic Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg Park.
Best Time to Visit KwaZulu-Natal
Thanks to the subtropical climate, the province is an ideal travel destination almost year-round. I was here once in early December and the second time in February.
Why I Recommend KwaZulu-Natal for a South Africa Tour
KwaZulu-Natal, known as the Kingdom of the Zulu, is a melting pot of African, European, and Indian cultures. I believe that here you can experience a more authentic and wilder South Africa. I particularly enjoyed Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and the Drakensberg mountains. Seeing an endangered leatherback turtle on the Elephant Coast near St. Lucia was, of course, an absolute highlight.
There are so many more reasons to visit KwaZulu-Natal. Read my travel reports for the east coast of South Africa here!
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