Beaches
The warm Indian Ocean beaches are ideal for swimming, surfing, yatching, kayaking and most other water
sports.
Alkantstrand and Newark Beaches are protected by shark-nets and lifeguards. Facilities include picnic
spots and a kiosk.
Tuzi Gazi Waterfront
The Tuzi Gazi Waterfront is an ideal playground for water sports enthusiasts. The upmarket office
complex, numerous shops, pubs, restaurants and walk-on moorings add to the vibrant atmosphere.
uMhlathuze Tourism Office 035-907 5018
NATURE
Dolphin Viewing Platform
Situated at the end of the North Breakwater Pier at Alkantstrand Beach, this specially erected platform
allows visitors to view the Humpback Dolphins that frequent the Richards Bay coastline.
Enseleni Nature Reserve
Situated 15 minute's drive from Richards Bay on the N2 towards Empangeni. Entrance to the reserve is
free and visitors are welcome to enjoy the picnic / braai sites and self-guided nature walks. The
Nkonkoni Trail is 7km and the Mvubu Trail is 3km in length. A variety of small mammals and an
abundance of bird life can be seen. A conference / activity centre is available to educational groups
and other interested parties.
KZN Wildlife 035-792 0034 - website: www.kznwildlife.com
Lake Mzingazi
This 944ha freshwater natural lake is the source of Richards Bay's water. It is home to an abundance
of hippos and crocodiles and is the favoured feeding place of African Fish Eagles for which the town
is renowned. The lake has been left untouched and can best be viewed in its natural splendour from the
Richards Bay Country Club.
Dayspring Farmyard
Situated 20 minutes drive from Richards Bay along the N2 towards Empangeni on a sugar cane farm, this
animal-petting farm allows children to interact with farmyard animals whilst parents relax in a Tea
Garden. They also cater for kiddie's birthday parties. 035-792 0045
Umfolozi Bird Park
Situated 20km north of Richards Bay, engulfed in a tranquil, scenic environment with its spectacular
variety of birds, boasting over 40 species ranging from the parrots to guinea fowl. There are pony
rides for the children and a restaurant and pub on the premises. 035-550 5023
Harbour Lights Resort
Situated on a sugar estate 15 minute's drive from Richards Bay along the John Ross Parkway.
Activities include an animal and bird farm, putt putt course, volleyball court, hikes and trampoline. Day
visitors are welcome. 035-796 6239 - Website: www.harbourlights.co.za
BIRDING
Richards Bay arguable rates as one of the BEST URBAN birding experiences in the country. With a wide
variety of areas to visit, affordable local guides, bird hides and boardwalks, Richards Bay offers
amazing opportunities to get out and enjoy what nature has to offer!
Over 350 species occur in the immediate Richards Bay area; 73% of South Africa's red data book species
and 24 National Rarities have been recorded from the Richards Bay area.
Within Richards Bay is the Thulasihleka Pan, probably the most reliable site for spotting Lesser
Jacanas in South Africa as well as enough variety of water birds to keep you busy for most of the
morning, including huge flocks of pelicans, Spoonbills and unusual species such as Baillon's Crake,
African Marsh Harrier and Brown-Throated Weaver. There is also an excellent network of walking trails
and hides at the pan that are a must for any birder or outdoor enthusiast in the area. Guided walks
are offered.
The Swamp Forest areas adjacent to Lake Mzingazi are excellent stakeouts for species such as Green
Malkoha, Fudd's Apalis, Black-throated Wattle Eye and Livingstone's Turaco.
The Southern Sanctuary (Important Bird Area SA079) and Harbour area have also long been hotspots for
rarities in South Africa such as Crab Plover and Broadbilled Sandpiper. According to leading ornithologist Dave Allen, from the Natural History Museum in Durban, this is some of the best "water birding" in southern Africa.
Less than an hour's drive form Richards Bay is South Africa's most exciting forest birding area -
Ongoye Forest with its Green Barbet, Eastern Bronze Naped Pigeons, Green Twinspots, Brown Robin,
Yellow-Streaked Greenbuls as well as its host of endemic plants. Then there is Dlinza Forest and the
aerial boardwalk, Spotted Thrush country of note! Nseleni Nature Reserve is also a beautiful little
reserve where boat trips can be arranged to see Whitebacked Night Heron and African Finfoot. Mtunzini
is also only a short drive away and host Palmnut Vulture and in winter months Mangrove Kingfisher as
well as many coastal forest species.
Lake Pobane (Goedetrou Dam), between Richards Bay and Eshowe, is an excellent haunt for Whitebacked
Night Herons, African Finfoot, Half-collared Kingfisher and good bushveld birds such as Gorgeous Bush
Shike. Tel/Fax: 035-753 5644 / 083 506 8682
Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it - Website: www.zbr.co.za
Maphelana
A KZN Wildlife private Reserve +-120 Km form Richards Bay. Activities include ski boating, hiking,
swimming and surf fishing.
KZN Wildlife 033-845 1000
Thula Thula Game Reserve
An exclusive private Game Reserve and Safari Lodge, a mere 20 minute's drive from Empangeni, offers an
abundance of wildlife, including elephant, rhino and leopard, fine bird watching and superb cuisine.
035-792 8322 - Website: www.thulathula.com - Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
ARTS AND CULTURE
Empangeni Art And Cultural History Museum
Non-profit gallery with a permanent collection and rotating exhibitions. The Empangeni Museum, housed
in the old Town Hall (1916) offers a look at the history of the sugar pioneers who forged the path for
development in the town with the opening of the Zululand Sugar Mill in 1911. Extensively renovated in
1995 it was reopened as a museum in April 1996. It houses a representative collection of contemporary
art from KwaZulu-Natal including works by Andrew Verster, Trevor Makoba, Dennis Purvis, Andries Botha,
Gert Swart, Raphael Magwaza, Diamond Bozas, Bonnie Ntshali and Nesta Nala. Other exhibits include Zulu
cultural and contemporary art displays.
The museum is open Tuesday to Fridays from 09h00 to 16h00 and on Saturdays from 09h00 to 12h00. Entry
is R1,00 for adults and 50 cents for children. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at the adjacent Around
Africa Restaurant. A monthly fresh produce and craft market is held at this centre. visitors can also
enjoy a meal at the adjacent Around Africa Restaurant. 035-907 5405 - Website: www.richemp.org.za
Empangeni Arts and Crafts Centre
The Arts and Crafts Centre is a community upliftment project that allows visitors to witness first
hand the making of authentic Zulu and other crafts, taste traditional Zulu cuisine and purchase
charming Zulu and other mementos. These include traditional beadwork, basket weaving, wood sculpture,
and fine art as well as tasty homemade treats. Craft workshops are hosted regularly.(Zululand
Unwrapped- KwaZulu Natal, South Africa)
Cultural Villages
Kwabhekithunga - Stewarts Farm (Eshowe) 035-460 0644
Shakaland (Eshowe) - 035-460 0912
Edupark
Situated in the Zululand Chamber of Business Foundation Community Park in Alton, the Edupark is home
to the Unizul Science Center, the Zululand Career Centre and the CASME Resource Centre (Science,
Biology and Maths teaching resources). Workshops are conducted for school groups on request.
Hours: Mon - Thurs 07h30 - 16h30 and Fridays 07h30 - 13h30
035-797 1805 - Website: www.zululandandchamber.co.za
Golf Club
Empangeni overlooks a coastal plain with rolling hills of sugar cane. The local country club has an
18-hole golf course.
Helicopter Charter Flips
Bell Air Charter offers a full range of charter services including helicopter flips, sightseeing, easy
access to remote areas, video and filming, site inspections, search and rescue, aerial surveillance
and patrols. 035-907 9380 / 083 646 9666 - Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Source: A Visitors Guide to the City of uMhlathuze
The warm Indian Ocean beaches are ideal for swimming, surfing, yatching, kayaking and most other water
sports.
Alkantstrand and Newark Beaches are protected by shark-nets and lifeguards. Facilities include picnic
spots and a kiosk.
Tuzi Gazi Waterfront
The Tuzi Gazi Waterfront is an ideal playground for water sports enthusiasts. The upmarket office
complex, numerous shops, pubs, restaurants and walk-on moorings add to the vibrant atmosphere.
uMhlathuze Tourism Office 035-907 5018
NATURE
Dolphin Viewing Platform
Situated at the end of the North Breakwater Pier at Alkantstrand Beach, this specially erected platform
allows visitors to view the Humpback Dolphins that frequent the Richards Bay coastline.
Enseleni Nature Reserve
Situated 15 minute's drive from Richards Bay on the N2 towards Empangeni. Entrance to the reserve is
free and visitors are welcome to enjoy the picnic / braai sites and self-guided nature walks. The
Nkonkoni Trail is 7km and the Mvubu Trail is 3km in length. A variety of small mammals and an
abundance of bird life can be seen. A conference / activity centre is available to educational groups
and other interested parties.
KZN Wildlife 035-792 0034 - website: www.kznwildlife.com
Lake Mzingazi
This 944ha freshwater natural lake is the source of Richards Bay's water. It is home to an abundance
of hippos and crocodiles and is the favoured feeding place of African Fish Eagles for which the town
is renowned. The lake has been left untouched and can best be viewed in its natural splendour from the
Richards Bay Country Club.
Dayspring Farmyard
Situated 20 minutes drive from Richards Bay along the N2 towards Empangeni on a sugar cane farm, this
animal-petting farm allows children to interact with farmyard animals whilst parents relax in a Tea
Garden. They also cater for kiddie's birthday parties. 035-792 0045
Umfolozi Bird Park
Situated 20km north of Richards Bay, engulfed in a tranquil, scenic environment with its spectacular
variety of birds, boasting over 40 species ranging from the parrots to guinea fowl. There are pony
rides for the children and a restaurant and pub on the premises. 035-550 5023
Harbour Lights Resort
Situated on a sugar estate 15 minute's drive from Richards Bay along the John Ross Parkway.
Activities include an animal and bird farm, putt putt course, volleyball court, hikes and trampoline. Day
visitors are welcome. 035-796 6239 - Website: www.harbourlights.co.za
BIRDING
Richards Bay arguable rates as one of the BEST URBAN birding experiences in the country. With a wide
variety of areas to visit, affordable local guides, bird hides and boardwalks, Richards Bay offers
amazing opportunities to get out and enjoy what nature has to offer!
Over 350 species occur in the immediate Richards Bay area; 73% of South Africa's red data book species
and 24 National Rarities have been recorded from the Richards Bay area.
Within Richards Bay is the Thulasihleka Pan, probably the most reliable site for spotting Lesser
Jacanas in South Africa as well as enough variety of water birds to keep you busy for most of the
morning, including huge flocks of pelicans, Spoonbills and unusual species such as Baillon's Crake,
African Marsh Harrier and Brown-Throated Weaver. There is also an excellent network of walking trails
and hides at the pan that are a must for any birder or outdoor enthusiast in the area. Guided walks
are offered.
The Swamp Forest areas adjacent to Lake Mzingazi are excellent stakeouts for species such as Green
Malkoha, Fudd's Apalis, Black-throated Wattle Eye and Livingstone's Turaco.
The Southern Sanctuary (Important Bird Area SA079) and Harbour area have also long been hotspots for
rarities in South Africa such as Crab Plover and Broadbilled Sandpiper. According to leading ornithologist Dave Allen, from the Natural History Museum in Durban, this is some of the best "water birding" in southern Africa.
Less than an hour's drive form Richards Bay is South Africa's most exciting forest birding area -
Ongoye Forest with its Green Barbet, Eastern Bronze Naped Pigeons, Green Twinspots, Brown Robin,
Yellow-Streaked Greenbuls as well as its host of endemic plants. Then there is Dlinza Forest and the
aerial boardwalk, Spotted Thrush country of note! Nseleni Nature Reserve is also a beautiful little
reserve where boat trips can be arranged to see Whitebacked Night Heron and African Finfoot. Mtunzini
is also only a short drive away and host Palmnut Vulture and in winter months Mangrove Kingfisher as
well as many coastal forest species.
Lake Pobane (Goedetrou Dam), between Richards Bay and Eshowe, is an excellent haunt for Whitebacked
Night Herons, African Finfoot, Half-collared Kingfisher and good bushveld birds such as Gorgeous Bush
Shike. Tel/Fax: 035-753 5644 / 083 506 8682
Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it - Website: www.zbr.co.za
Maphelana
A KZN Wildlife private Reserve +-120 Km form Richards Bay. Activities include ski boating, hiking,
swimming and surf fishing.
KZN Wildlife 033-845 1000
Thula Thula Game Reserve
An exclusive private Game Reserve and Safari Lodge, a mere 20 minute's drive from Empangeni, offers an
abundance of wildlife, including elephant, rhino and leopard, fine bird watching and superb cuisine.
035-792 8322 - Website: www.thulathula.com - Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
ARTS AND CULTURE
Empangeni Art And Cultural History Museum
Non-profit gallery with a permanent collection and rotating exhibitions. The Empangeni Museum, housed
in the old Town Hall (1916) offers a look at the history of the sugar pioneers who forged the path for
development in the town with the opening of the Zululand Sugar Mill in 1911. Extensively renovated in
1995 it was reopened as a museum in April 1996. It houses a representative collection of contemporary
art from KwaZulu-Natal including works by Andrew Verster, Trevor Makoba, Dennis Purvis, Andries Botha,
Gert Swart, Raphael Magwaza, Diamond Bozas, Bonnie Ntshali and Nesta Nala. Other exhibits include Zulu
cultural and contemporary art displays.
The museum is open Tuesday to Fridays from 09h00 to 16h00 and on Saturdays from 09h00 to 12h00. Entry
is R1,00 for adults and 50 cents for children. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at the adjacent Around
Africa Restaurant. A monthly fresh produce and craft market is held at this centre. visitors can also
enjoy a meal at the adjacent Around Africa Restaurant. 035-907 5405 - Website: www.richemp.org.za
Empangeni Arts and Crafts Centre
The Arts and Crafts Centre is a community upliftment project that allows visitors to witness first
hand the making of authentic Zulu and other crafts, taste traditional Zulu cuisine and purchase
charming Zulu and other mementos. These include traditional beadwork, basket weaving, wood sculpture,
and fine art as well as tasty homemade treats. Craft workshops are hosted regularly.(Zululand
Unwrapped- KwaZulu Natal, South Africa)
Cultural Villages
Kwabhekithunga - Stewarts Farm (Eshowe) 035-460 0644
Shakaland (Eshowe) - 035-460 0912
Edupark
Situated in the Zululand Chamber of Business Foundation Community Park in Alton, the Edupark is home
to the Unizul Science Center, the Zululand Career Centre and the CASME Resource Centre (Science,
Biology and Maths teaching resources). Workshops are conducted for school groups on request.
Hours: Mon - Thurs 07h30 - 16h30 and Fridays 07h30 - 13h30
035-797 1805 - Website: www.zululandandchamber.co.za
Golf Club
Empangeni overlooks a coastal plain with rolling hills of sugar cane. The local country club has an
18-hole golf course.
Helicopter Charter Flips
Bell Air Charter offers a full range of charter services including helicopter flips, sightseeing, easy
access to remote areas, video and filming, site inspections, search and rescue, aerial surveillance
and patrols. 035-907 9380 / 083 646 9666 - Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Source: A Visitors Guide to the City of uMhlathuze
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