A Fun Road Trip from Umhlanga to St Lucia

Hey there! Ready for an adventure? Buckle up and join me on a vibey road trip from Umhlanga to St Lucia. We’re in for a treat!

First things first, let’s talk about Umhlanga. Known for its stunning beaches, Umhlanga is a coastal town in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The place has a lively atmosphere and offers plenty of activities for everyone.

Okay, let’s hit the road! As we drive from Umhlanga, we’ll pass through picturesque landscapes and charming towns. It’s going to be a feast for our eyes! And don’t worry, I’ve got the perfect playlist ready to set the mood.

Our destination is St Lucia, a beautiful town nestled on the edge of a nature reserve. St Lucia is famous for its incredible wildlife, so keep your camera ready. You might spot some hippos or crocodiles during the boat cruise on the estuary. How cool is that?

But before we reach St Lucia, let’s make a pit stop at Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park. Here, we can go on a thrilling game drive and witness Africa’s iconic Big Five – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos. I can’t wait to see them up close!

Now, let’s talk food. Along the way, we’ll pass by some charming cafes and restaurants where we can grab a bite. Don’t forget to try some delicious local cuisine – it’s a must! And of course, we’ll need to stay hydrated, so let’s keep some snacks and drinks handy.

As we continue our journey, we’ll come across breathtaking landscapes and breathtaking views. The lush greenery and rolling hills will make us feel like we’re in paradise. It’s moments like these that remind me of the beauty of nature.

Finally, we arrive in St Lucia. The town has a relaxed vibe, and you’ll instantly feel at ease. Take a stroll along the waterfront and soak in the laid-back atmosphere. And if you’re up for it, you can even go for a swim in the warm Indian Ocean.

Well, my friend, our road trip from Umhlanga to St Lucia has come to an end. But don’t worry, the memories we’ve made will last a lifetime. I hope you enjoyed the adventure as much as I did. Until our next road trip!

When you hit the road, it’s not just about getting from point A to point B. It’s about the thrill of the journey, and the Elephant Highway offers just that. This stretch of the N2 takes you from Durban to the breathtaking St Lucia, and it’s a route that’s filled with hidden gems waiting to be explored.

But most people zoom past these treasures, missing out on unique and unforgettable experiences that can turn an ordinary road trip into an extraordinary adventure. So, let me be your guide and show you how to make the most of your holiday with a four-day plan that will leave you with memories to cherish.

By Claire Lathe

Day 1: Embrace The Journey

As I set off on my adventure in Umhlanga, I couldn’t help but be excited. The Royal Palm Hotel & Apartments by BON Hotels, located in Umhlanga, was my starting point. This hotel was conveniently close to the Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Trail, a beautiful path through the Hawaan Forest. Walking along the raised wooden boardwalk, I marveled at the natural beauty around me, hoping to catch a glimpse of rare birds and trees.

Despite my frequent stops to take in the scenery, the entire walk only took an hour. I was amazed by how easily accessible this trail was. And the best part? It led directly to Umhlanga Beach, where I could relax and enjoy the waves. If I wanted a change of scenery, I could also visit La Lucia Beach or Umvoti Beach, both within reach. These beaches had everything I needed – safe parking, tidal pools, and rocky inlets with crystal-clear, warm water.

After spending time at Umhlanga Beach, I decided to embark on a brisk walk down the promenade to the famous Oyster Box Hotel. There, I indulged in a tradition that has stood the test of time – High Tea. However, I needed to change out of my casual attire and into something a little more formal for this elegant affair. The High Tea at the Oyster Box Hotel was legendary and required a reservation in advance. It was certainly a proper and sophisticated experience that I didn’t want to miss.

Day 2:

Buckle up and get ready for a thrilling adventure starting at the Royal Palm Hotel! Leave the comfort behind and hit the open road. This particular stretch is a never-ending journey through enchanting forests, hills draped with lush sugar cane, cozy towns tucked away in valleys, serene rivers, and tantalizing glimpses of the majestic sea. Trust me, you’re in for a treat!

Before you dive headfirst into the wonders of Zululand, why not spend a delightful morning at Flag Animal Farm in Umhlali? It’s the perfect way to jumpstart your day! Afterward, take a well-deserved break and grab a bite to eat at one of the beachfront restaurants in Ballito. Picture yourself sitting on a terrace, gazing out at the vast ocean.

Now, the real adventure begins. As you cross the bridge over the magnificent Tugela River, you will officially step foot into Zululand. Brace yourself, my friend, because things are about to take an exciting twist. Prepare to discover a whole new world, where traditions and customs dance gracefully with the contemporary.

As I stroll along the northern side of the Tugela Bridge, I spot a weathered, ancient tree. It’s hard to believe that it was under this very tree that the British delivered an ultimatum to the Zulu people, marking the beginning of the Anglo-Zulu War in 1879. What was supposed to be a brief conflict turned into a catastrophic defeat for the British at Isandlwana. The scars of this war and its consequences can still be found scattered across this lush, undulating countryside, just waiting to be explored.

Day 3:

Once I’ve finished my breakfast, it’s time to embark on my journey to Eshowe. As I drive, I can’t help but marvel at the breathtaking countryside that stretches out before me – rolling hills covered in vibrant greenery. Along the way, I come across a charming craft village on the left. Here, I have the opportunity to browse through a variety of handmade curios, baskets, and beadwork. And if that’s not enough, I can also pick up some fresh pineapples, oranges, and madumbis.

When I reach Eshowe, I’m in for a real treat. The Dlinza Forest awaits me, offering a unique experience. I get to walk along a 30-meter-high boardwalk that takes me through the treetops. It’s like being Tarzan in the jungle, swinging from tree to tree. As I make my way through the forest, I can’t help but feel a sense of wonder and adventure. And right nearby, I discover Fort Nongqayi, home to the awe-inspiring Vukani Museum. Here, I find an impressive collection of Zulu pots and basket ware that has gained worldwide recognition.

By this time, I’m probably getting hungry, so I make my way to the George Hotel for a delicious lunch. It turns out that this hotel is also home to the renowned Zululand Brewing Company, where I have the chance to sample their famous Zulu Blonde beer. With a satisfied stomach, I continue my journey. As I leave the mountains behind, I find myself yearning for the beach once again. So, I make my way down the hills to Richards Bay. And who knows, maybe I can even squeeze in a peaceful horse ride along the sandy shores.

Hey there! Let’s take a trip just about an hour north of Richards Bay to the Enseleni Nature Reserve. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs, enjoy a leisurely walk through the beautiful indigenous sand forest, and maybe even have a lovely picnic.

As you venture along this road, keep an eye out for two noteworthy things. First, you’ll spot some friendly locals selling delicious pineapples, avocados, and honey right by the roadside. It’s a tempting stop, but remember to stay within the speed limit!

After Kwambonambi, a place famous for its exceptional polo teams, you’ll cross the Umfolozi River and enter a Zululand that seems to exist outside of time. Along the road, you’ll see traditional grass-hatted huts and groups of cattle grazing peacefully. It’s quite a sight to behold, especially when you catch a glimpse of locals dressed in their stunning traditional attire while casually chatting on their cellphones or riding bicycles.

When you’re driving to St Lucia, make sure to turn off at Mtubatuba. And hey, if you’re feeling hungry, stop by the Banana Box co-op for some snacks. Then, take the Monzi road and get ready for an adventure!

As you leave Mtubatuba, you’ll notice the famous Dukuduku Forest surrounding you. It’s like being in a magical forest with towering albizia trees and thick strelitzia thickets. The forest is so dense and beautiful, you’ll feel like you’re in another world.

Just before you reach the bridge to St Lucia, you’ll see Khula Village on your left. Here, you’ll find the WOWZULU tourist hub, which has a lot of cool stuff to offer. You can explore a Zulu market, go on thrilling cycle tours through the forest, check out some local crafts, and even have lunch with the chief. How amazing is that?

Once you’re in St Lucia, the rest of your holiday is all up to you. There’s so much to do here! You can visit game reserves, go on boat rides, try your luck at fishing, go hiking in the wilderness, and even go on exciting night drives and foot safaris. And guess what? Sometimes, you might even spot a curious hippo wandering around town!

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