Three weekend activities to do in incredible Umhlanga

The lighthouse in Umhlanga is an icon. Photo: Rckr88 / flickr

Umhlanga is a popular spot along KwaZulu-Natal’s Dolphin coast, and there’s loads to do on weekends! Here’s our suggestions…

Dolphin and Whale Tours

Why you should experience it: From May to September each year, southern right whales migrate along the KwaZulu-Natal coast. Humpbacks also arrive around this time and stay until late November. These humpbacks can often be seen from the beaches in Umhlanga, along with pods of playful dolphins. There are also Whale and Dolphin tours that operate daily from Granny’s Pool on Umhlanga Main Beach. Take a picnic basket and a blanket and spend the day soaking up the warm KZN sunshine whilst spotting these beautiful creatures.

Spot some dolphins and whales in Umhlanga. Photo: Leon Overweel / unsplash

Visit the Hawaan Forest

Why you should visit: The Hawaan Forest is the remnant of a dry coastal dune forest and dates back 18 000 years. Said to be the last of its kind, the forest is home to various plant species and wildlife, including bushbuck, African Rock Pythons, bushpigs, dwarf chameleons, birdlife and more. Walking trails are not open to the public in order to maintain the ecosystem, but guided Wildlife Society tours are available. Bookings are essential.

How much does it cost: R30 per person

How to get there: Located in Hawaan, it’s an 18 km drive from central Durban via the M4

Walk the Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve trail

Why you should experience it: The Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve is a 26 hectare reserve situated on the shores of the Indian ocean in Umhlanga Rocks. A wooden bridge meanders along for 1.6km across the Ohlanga River, wetlands and a dune forest. Embark on the trail yourself, or opt for a tour guide to help point out the various wildlife and birdlife along the way. It’s a great way to get some fresh air and sunshine, while experiencing nature at its finest.

How much does it cost: Entrance to the reserve is free.

How to get there: Find it in Hawaan, Blackburn – close to the Hawaan Forest.

Walkway through the Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve. Photo: Péter Béla Molnár / Flickr

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Sundeeka Mungroo

Sundeeka Mungroo is a content writer, foodie and all-round adventure-seeker. She's a graduate of the University of South Africa with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature, and has worked as a copywriter and editor in the digital marketing industry. Sundeeka currently writes for I Love South Africa and The South African. She lives in the beautiful Mother City and loves exploring all that South Africa has to offer.