Explore Giants Cave Paintings and Mandela Capture Site Tour

Durban , South Africa

Explore Giants Cave Paintings and Mandela Capture Site Tour

Active

11h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Escape the ordinary on this unforgettable KwaZulu-Natal adventure. Starting in Durban, explore the stunning Drakensberg Mountains and see the ancient Giants Castle Cave Paintings—extraordinary San rock art set amid breathtaking scenery. Surrounded by lush valleys and highlands, Giants Castle offers a rare glimpse into the rich cultural history of the San and Khoekhoe peoples. Next, visit the charming town of Howick to marvel at its spectacular 95-meter waterfalls—known as the “Home of the Tall.” Enjoy the tranquility of Howick Falls before heading to the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, where a striking steel sculpture and museum celebrate Mandela’s legacy and his fight against apartheid. This journey combines awe-inspiring landscapes with powerful history and culture—an inspiring day packed with unforgettable sights and lifelong memories.

Available options

Explore Giants Cave Paintings and Mandela Capture Site Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water onboard the vehicle

Pick up and drop off within a 16km radius of Durban

Shared Tour Guide/Driver, Vehicle & Fuel

Entrance fees to places of interest

Detailed itinerary

Your unforgettable journey begins bright and early with a 5:30 AM pickup from your Durban accommodation within a 10 km radius.

Embark on a scenic one-hour drive through KwaZulu-Natal’s vibrant landscape to Pietermaritzburg, where the adventure of the day awaits.

First, explore Pietermaritzburg’s iconic City Hall, believed to be the largest brick building in the Southern Hemisphere, and visit the inspiring Gandhi statue.

Then, continue your journey towards the breathtaking Drakensberg Mountains, where adventure and stunning scenery await.

Next, we head to Giant’s Castle Reserve in the Drakensberg, about a 2-hour drive from Pietermaritzburg.

Surrounded by stunning landscapes, the reserve features ancient San Rock Art in well-preserved sandstone caves. Guided tours highlight the stories of the San and Khoi-khoi people, who created these paintings thousands of years ago.

Just 30 minutes from the camp, enjoy a scenic trail and an authentic cultural experience, exploring the rich history and breathtaking scenery of the region.

Stop 4

Visit Howick Falls, towering 95 meters on the Umgeni River and called the “Home of the Tall” by the Zulu.

Explore Howick’s historic streets, museums, and antique shops.

Then, see the striking Nelson Mandela Capture Site sculpture, a powerful landmark honoring his legacy, with a museum dedicated to his fight against apartheid, combining nature, history, and culture in one memorable day.

We will then begin our scenic return journey to Durban, where you will be comfortably dropped off at your accommodation, carrying unforgettable memories of a day filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and inspiring stories.

What's not included

Lunch

Gratuities (optional)

Drinks (alcohol beverages are higher in price and relative to location)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Durban

Durban is a vibrant coastal city in South Africa known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and warm tropical climate. It's a melting pot of cultures, offering a unique blend of African, Indian, and colonial influences.

Top Attractions

Golden Mile

A stretch of beautiful beaches along the Durban coastline, offering a variety of water sports, beach activities, and a vibrant promenade.

Beach Half day to full day Free to enter, activities vary in cost

uShaka Marine World

A popular theme park and marine park featuring a variety of attractions, including a water park, aquarium, and dolphin shows.

Entertainment Full day Moderate to expensive

Durban Botanical Gardens

A beautiful botanical garden featuring a variety of plant species, walking trails, and a heritage site.

Nature 1-2 hours Free to enter, small fee for special exhibits

Victoria Street Market

A bustling market offering a variety of goods, including spices, textiles, and handmade crafts.

Market 1-2 hours Budget to moderate

Durban Museum

A museum showcasing the natural and cultural history of Durban and the surrounding region.

Museum 1-2 hours Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bunny Chow

A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken, lamb, or beans. It's a popular street food in Durban.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available

Biltong

Dried, cured meat, similar to jerky, made from various types of meat such as beef, game, or ostrich.

Snack Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Bunny Chow

A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken, lamb, or beans. It's a popular street food in Durban.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available

Durban Curry

A spicy curry dish with roots in Indian cuisine, often made with chicken, lamb, or seafood, and flavored with local spices.

Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available

Popular Activities

Surfing Hiking Mountain biking Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga Cultural tours Museum visits

Best Time to Visit

December to February

This is the summer season with warm temperatures, frequent rain showers, and bustling beaches. It's the peak tourist season with vibrant festivals and events.

23°C to 30°C 73°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Zulu, English
Widely spoken: Zulu, English, Afrikaans, Xhosa
English: Widely spoken

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Durban is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and violent crime can occur, particularly in certain areas and at night. Exercise caution, be aware of your surroundings, and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Keep valuables secure
• Avoid walking alone at night

Getting there

By air

King Shaka International Airport • 35 km from city center

By train

Durban Station

By bus

Durban Bus Terminal, Grey Street Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

DART buses are affordable and convenient for getting around. They operate on dedicated bus lanes, making them faster than regular buses.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Berea Morningside Umgeni Road

Day trips

Valley of a Thousand Hills

30 km from Durban • Half day to full day

A scenic region known for its rolling hills, traditional Zulu villages, and cultural experiences. It offers a glimpse into rural Zulu life and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

St. Lucia

200 km from Durban • Full day or overnight

A coastal town in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife, and water activities. It's a popular destination for boat cruises, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting.

Drakensberg Mountains

250 km from Durban • Full day or overnight

A stunning mountain range known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a break from the city.

Festivals

Durban July • July Durban International Film Festival • October Sugar Rush Festival • December to January

Pro tips

Visit the beach early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures
Try local street food like bunny chow and samosas for an authentic Durban culinary experience
Explore the city's cultural heritage by visiting the Victoria Street Market and the Durban Botanical Gardens
Take a day trip to the Valley of a Thousand Hills for a scenic and cultural experience
Attend a local event or festival, such as the Durban July or the Durban International Film Festival, for a unique and memorable experience