As the holiday season sweeps in, Durban will host a wide range of outdoor adventures and leisure activities at the multiple Green Corridors (NPC) tourism sites, all of which are a short distance from the heart of the city.
These opportunities cater to both locals seeking respite and out-of-town tourists, offering an array of activities, from self-drive explorations to guided adventures. These include:
eNanda Adventure Park – Inanda Dam
For those craving a mix of tranquillity and excitement, the eNanda Adventure Park at the expansive Inanda Dam is a must-visit. It boasts waterside picnic spots, a thrilling pump bike track, and guided biking, birding, hiking, and canoeing excursions. Families can also enjoy safe and shady camping areas on the dam’s shores.
Valley of 1000 Hills – Isithumba Adventures
The enchanting Valley of 1000 Hills beckons with Isithumba Adventures, providing a culturally rich experience through walking, hiking, and biking trails, along with authentic cultural tours. Mqeku Picnic Site features a natural waterslide into the Umgeni, braai facilities, and ample shade for families to unwind in nature.
Amaphephetheni by Amatata Adventures
For those seeking more rigorous hikes, Amaphephetheni by Amatata Adventures offers 7km and 14km trails with heart-stopping views of the Inanda Dam and the Valley of 1000 Hills. Adventurous souls can also hike from Matata Adventures to the Mqeku picnic spot for unforgettable views.
Lower and upper Molweni –Krantzkloof Nature Reserve
Nature enthusiasts can explore Lower Molweni’s community-developed nature trails, supported by Kloof Conservancy. Meanwhile, Upper Molweni features the challenging Nogxaza Falls Hike, providing awe-inspiring views of rural KZN and making Overrock a popular hiking destination in the Green Corridors network.
uMgababa-Mnini Dam
Just south of Durban, Mnini Dam in uMgababa offers two fantastic sites: Thulas’ Adventures and the Mnini Dam Tourist Resort. Perfect for picnics, canoeing, fishing, birding, and hiking, these sites promise a warm and memorable experience.
GreenHub – Blue Lagoon beachfront
Near Durban’s scenic Blue Lagoon, GreenHub offers eco-tourism activities such as birding, hiking, canoeing, and exploration of the unique Ezemvelo Beachwood Mangroves on selected days.
Most Green Corridors sites are accessible via self-drives, but guided tours are recommended for an enhanced experience. Knowledgeable and accredited guides offer shuttle tours in air-conditioned mini-buses. Overnight accommodation in a comfortable “pop-up camp” is also available with or without catering.
Cultural enthusiasts can delve into Rasta Caves in Inanda, the Inanda Heritage Route, and Waterfalls through various available tours. Camping and activity fees vary, contributing to the growth of the local tourism economy in these vibrant areas.
For a detailed exploration of these options, visit Durban’s Green Corridor’s official website at https://durbangreencorridor.co.za/our-work/tourism.
