activities
Mtubatuba is idyllically located to explore Zululand, as a wealth of attractions harmonises the abundant wilderness and cultural experience - all situated close enough for easy access.
The Town of Mtubatuba
There is no better place to experience the rich Zulu culture, as here in Mtubatuba. The customs and way of life of the Zulus have undoubtedly gripped the imagination of the world, thanks to the splendour of its people and the romance of Shaka, the 'Black Napoleon'. Here at Mtubatuba, several unique opportunities are available to experience the culture first hand - either in a Living Museum where the old ways and traditions of the people are preserved, or in the modern Zulu village where the people are happy to welcome you into their homes.
Iconic to the culture are the residents' songs and dance - school children near Mtubatuba participate in the 'Songs of Zululand' project, where the children perform traditional songs with modern lyrics. When visiting the town of Mtubatuba itself, a thriving market sells traditional medicines (muti) where the proprietors of these lively little pavement stalls will gladly prescribe a potion for what ails you.
The roads in the area are also dotted with craft markets where Zulu beadwork, wood-carvings and woven baskets are available.
The iSimangoliso Wetland Park (aka Greater St Lucia Wetland Park)
A short drive to the East will bring you into the iSimangoliso Wetland Park, South Africa's first World Heritage site and an eco-system of vast variety - there are many ways to explore this natural treasure-chest.
If you yearn to see the local wildlife - like hippos, crocodiles and water-birds, we recommend a ride on one of the cruise boats that offer ecological tours. The game drives that take guests through the Eastern shores are also well-renowned and avid explorers can expect a glimpse of four of Africa's Big Five. Besides the abundant wildlife and ecology, there are also horse-back safaris through the grassland and canoeing safaris on the lake.
Cape Vidal
If unique aquatic activities interest you, Cape Vidal, a world-famous beach for swimming and snorkelling, is on our doorstep. Beside the vast variety of marine activities, there is also a unique opportunity to see whales and dolphins, or to try your hand at deep sea fishing.
At Cape Vidal you can explore the famous walking trails that take you from coastal forest to hides where you can watch water-birds, Fish Eagles, Malachite Kingfishers and Green Herons.
The Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve
If you plan on venturing to the West, the world-famous Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, home of the Big Five, is a must see. The Imfolozi Reserve has rightfully become world famous for its conservation efforts that brought the Black Rhino back from the edge of extinction. The main charm of the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is that it is a small and well-managed reserve that is easily explored in a day with good potential for excellent sightings. Close-ups of rhino are almost guaranteed.
For the early birds who wish to kick-start their day by exploring the Reserve, Ida will prepare an opulent 'Out-of-Africa' breakfast basket to compliment the trip. Comprehensive maps of the Reserve can be obtained at the gate and will broaden the scope of your adventure.
Whichever activity you prefer, Ida and her staff will be delighted to advise and assist you.
Mtubatuba is idyllically located to explore Zululand, as a wealth of attractions harmonises the abundant wilderness and cultural experience - all situated close enough for easy access.
The Town of Mtubatuba
There is no better place to experience the rich Zulu culture, as here in Mtubatuba. The customs and way of life of the Zulus have undoubtedly gripped the imagination of the world, thanks to the splendour of its people and the romance of Shaka, the 'Black Napoleon'. Here at Mtubatuba, several unique opportunities are available to experience the culture first hand - either in a Living Museum where the old ways and traditions of the people are preserved, or in the modern Zulu village where the people are happy to welcome you into their homes.
Iconic to the culture are the residents' songs and dance - school children near Mtubatuba participate in the 'Songs of Zululand' project, where the children perform traditional songs with modern lyrics. When visiting the town of Mtubatuba itself, a thriving market sells traditional medicines (muti) where the proprietors of these lively little pavement stalls will gladly prescribe a potion for what ails you.
The roads in the area are also dotted with craft markets where Zulu beadwork, wood-carvings and woven baskets are available.
The iSimangoliso Wetland Park (aka Greater St Lucia Wetland Park)
A short drive to the East will bring you into the iSimangoliso Wetland Park, South Africa's first World Heritage site and an eco-system of vast variety - there are many ways to explore this natural treasure-chest.
If you yearn to see the local wildlife - like hippos, crocodiles and water-birds, we recommend a ride on one of the cruise boats that offer ecological tours. The game drives that take guests through the Eastern shores are also well-renowned and avid explorers can expect a glimpse of four of Africa's Big Five. Besides the abundant wildlife and ecology, there are also horse-back safaris through the grassland and canoeing safaris on the lake.
Cape Vidal
If unique aquatic activities interest you, Cape Vidal, a world-famous beach for swimming and snorkelling, is on our doorstep. Beside the vast variety of marine activities, there is also a unique opportunity to see whales and dolphins, or to try your hand at deep sea fishing.
At Cape Vidal you can explore the famous walking trails that take you from coastal forest to hides where you can watch water-birds, Fish Eagles, Malachite Kingfishers and Green Herons.
If you plan on venturing to the West, the world-famous Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, home of the Big Five, is a must see. The Imfolozi Reserve has rightfully become world famous for its conservation efforts that brought the Black Rhino back from the edge of extinction. The main charm of the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is that it is a small and well-managed reserve that is easily explored in a day with good potential for excellent sightings. Close-ups of rhino are almost guaranteed.
For the early birds who wish to kick-start their day by exploring the Reserve, Ida will prepare an opulent 'Out-of-Africa' breakfast basket to compliment the trip. Comprehensive maps of the Reserve can be obtained at the gate and will broaden the scope of your adventure.
Whichever activity you prefer, Ida and her staff will be delighted to advise and assist you.