Drakensberg Mountains, Howick Falls & Mandela Capture from Durban

Durban , South Africa

Drakensberg Mountains, Howick Falls & Mandela Capture from Durban

Active

10h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the stunning landscapes and rich history of KwaZulu-Natal on this full-day tour from Durban. Marvel at Howick Falls, where a 95-meter waterfall creates a spectacular sight. Visit the Mandela Capture Site, a key historical landmark that chronicles the struggle for freedom in South Africa. Explore the awe-inspiring Drakensberg Mountains with a tailored hiking experience that showcases breathtaking vistas, unique flora, and endemic wildlife. This tour perfectly blends cultural insight and outdoor adventure, making it ideal for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

- Full-day tour from Durban, exploring Howick Falls and Mandela Capture Site
- Enjoy a hike in the UNESCO-listed Drakensberg Mountains
- Experience the local culture and history of South Africa
- Visit Mandela Capture Site and Howick Falls
- Suitable for all levels of hikers, with tailored trails available

Available options

Drakensberg Mountains, Howick Falls & Mandela Capture from Durban

Pickup included

What's included

Tour guide

Encounter some wildlife

see different type birds

Visit Mandela Capture Site

Visit Howick Falls

See unique trees and plants

Hiking in the Drakensberg

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your day begins with an early morning departure from Durban. As you leave the coastal city behind, the landscape changes from rolling hills and sugarcane fields to the scenic Midlands region, known for its greenery, farmlands, and charming countryside. The first stop is at Howick Falls, a spectacular waterfall plunging 95 meters into a deep pool below. Known locally as “KwaNogqaza” (the place of the tall one), Howick Falls is steeped in local legend and provides a dramatic setting for photographs and storytelling. You’ll have time to enjoy the views, browse local curios, and appreciate the beauty of this natural wonder.

Stop 2

The journey continues to the nearby Mandela Capture Site, one of South Africa’s most important heritage landmarks. It was here, on 5 August 1962, that Nelson Mandela was arrested before spending 27 years in prison. Today, the site hosts an award-winning visitor centre and an iconic sculpture made of steel columns that, when viewed from a specific angle, reveals Mandela’s portrait. Walking through the museum and memorial is a moving experience that provides insight into South Africa’s history and the sacrifices made during the struggle against apartheid.

The tour proceeds deeper inland towards the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The drive itself is breathtaking, with sweeping vistas and towering peaks appearing as you approach the mountain range. On arrival at the trailhead, you will go on a hiking experience tailored to your pace and ability. Whether you follow gentle pathways along valleys and streams or tackle slightly more challenging routes that climb to viewpoints, the Drakensberg offers scenery that will leave you in awe.

After hiking, you can take lunch break, own expense, before commencing the journey back to Durban, arriving at around 6pm.

What's not included

Tips

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

no health restrictions

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