With the easing of local lockdown measures, and international travel still restricted, many South Africans are finally taking the opportunity to explore this incredible country. And for the adventurers looking to discover some truly most remote treasures, 4×4 trails are the best route. The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) South Coast, with its diverse coastal terrain and rich, cultural heritage, offers 4×4 thrill-seekers some truly memorable trails.
“The need for continued social distancing has seen many turning to the outdoors for safe recreation and relaxation,” explained CEO of Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT), Phelisa Mangcu. “One area of particular interest has been 4×4 trails, which allow families to explore new areas from the comfort and safety of their own vehicles. The KZN South Coast has three established 4×4 trails that invite those with an adventurous spirit to experience our coastal forests, nature and game reserves up close!”
Mangcu said that the 4×4 trails gave visitors a unique hinterland excursion, while also supporting rural tourism initiatives: “Rural tourism has been identified as a key area of economic development this Tourism Month, and the KZN South Coast has several ongoing projects that support local communities – including the establishment of diverse 4×4 trails.”
KwaNzimakwe Multi-Trails
Launched in 2019, the KwaNzimakwe Multi-Trails consists of three courses – a short walking trail, a 10km running trail, and a 15-to-20km 4×4 trail. This unique trail traverses the Mpenjati river valley from one side to the other, with rocky climbs and steep descents incorporating river crossings which start and finish at the top of the KwaNzimakwe trails. The trails form part of a larger project – the KwaNzimakwe Multi-Trail Park – which will eventually include a restaurant, traders’ market and administrative offices.
Lake Eland Game Reserve
Located a 40-minute drive from Port Shepstone, this 2 500-hectare game reserve boasts diverse ecosystems of bushveld, grassland, coastal forest and wetlands, home to a variety of bird- and wildlife. Visitors can drive their own 4×4 vehicles (or quad or motorbikes) as they enjoy sightings of the indigenous eland, giraffe, wildebeest and zebra. In addition to this exciting trail, visitors can walk across the reserve’s 80m suspension bridge, or soar across the Oribi Gorge on the 4.5km Zip Line Tour. There are also several picnic sites, a restaurant and children’s playground.
Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve
Just 9km north of Umzinto is the 2 200-hectare nature reserve where 4×4 trail adventurers can traverse grasslands, coastal forests, rivers, wetlands and mountains. The area is home to a number of interesting animal species, including eland, zebra, bushbuck, wildebeest, black-backed jackal, and rock rabbits. There are also more than 300 recorded bird species, among them martial eagles, narina trogon, pygmy kingfishers, ground hornbills, secretary birds, and grey crowned cranes, which can be spotted along the drive, or at the reserve’s picnic and braai site.
Other KZN South Coast adventures
Alongside the popular 4×4 trails, the KZN South Coast offers visitors a range of affordable, family-friendly activities in the beautiful outdoors. The five Blue Flag beaches and safe tidal pools are perfect for swimming and snorkelling; while Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks are a divers’ paradise. Another rural tourism development initiative is The KwaXolo Caves Adventures, a securely-harnessed mountain hiking excursion into these caves, home to ancient San artwork and exceptional valley views. And, with 11 golf courses, ‘The Golf Coast’ has a green for every golfer!
