Lauren Anthony

If you grew up in KZN, you’ve likely spent at least one childhood holiday riding horses, hiking, and swimming in streams found within the dramatic Drakensberg mountains. If not, then this is your sign to pack your bags and head for the hills, because the Drakensberg is unmatched in scenic beauty and outdoor fun! Speaking of packing, here’s a checklist to help you prepare for a one-day hike in the Drakensberg. Must-pack items: Water bottle Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes A warm jacket and waterproof clothing (mountain weather changes fast) Sunglasses First-aid kit Torch or headlamp, with extra batteries Nutritious snacks and meals to keep your energy up Navigation tools: a mobile GPS or compass, plus a map Power bank – better safe than sorry SPF Trekking pole(s) If you're camping overnight, add: Sleeping bag Toiletries Extra clothes and underwear – don’t forget thermals Tent and sleeping mat Plenty of food to last the duration of your trip Gas stove and necessary cooking accessories When is the best time to visit? It depends on what you’re looking for, but autumn (March–May) is generally the ideal time. During these months, temperatures are comfortably mild, skies are clear, rainfall is minimal, and the views are truly breathtaking. To make planning even easier, we’ve found a few Airbnbs near the Drakensberg that might be worth checking out. Click here to view. But without further ado, here are our top 10 reasons to visit the Berg (as we call it in KZN!): Time Out ma

When you think of Durban, what comes to mind? Golden beaches, warm weather, bold flavours? You wouldn’t be alone, and you wouldn’t be wrong. But this friendly coastal city has far more to offer than first meets the eye. From historic markets woven into the fabric of the city to Africa’s oldest surviving botanic garden, and local artists celebrating Durban’s rich biodiversity and ecosystems that make KwaZulu-Natal truly one-of-a-kind, there’s a deeper story just waiting to be discovered. And quite frankly, if Durban isn’t on your 'must-visit' list, seriously, what is wrong with you? And before you say it, no, we’re not being biased… well, maybe just a tiny bit. After all, we’ve got the official title to back us up: Durban was named one of Time Out’s Best Places to Travel in 2026. Whether you’re a curious local, a first-time visitor, or looking to impress at your next quiz night, here are 10 fun facts about Durban you might not know. TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban😋 The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban

Tucked between busy roads and the popular beachfront is Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve… one of Durban’s most remarkable hidden gems. This 76-hectare national forest sits serenely in the heart of North Durban as a rare natural haven, with big implications for the health of the Umgeni River and the surrounding ecosystem. Why are mangroves significant?  Mangroves aren’t just beautiful; they’re ecological powerhouses. They stabilise riverbanks, filter pollutants, provide breeding grounds for marine life, and act as natural flood buffers. In this bustling coastal city, the Beachwood Mangroves’ role is even more vital.  Beachwood holds the largest population of mangrove trees in Durban and is home to three protected mangrove species. It also functions as a Nature Conservation Education Centre, playing a critical role in raising awareness about fragile coastal ecosystems. And now, you’re invited to explore it! What to expect on the walk Hosted by the North Durban Honorary Officers in partnership with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, the guided walks offer rare access to this protected space. An elevated boardwalk – built with the support of Lions International - winds through the forest canopy, meaning you can explore even when the tide is high. There are three trails within the reserve, leading to a bird hide, tidal channels and swampy feeding grounds.  Keep your eyes peeled for: Black, red and white mangrove trees Thousands of fiddler crabs waving their oversized claws Mudskippers ‘wal

A food garden at the Isipingo Food for Health Clinic is improving lives and earning provincial recognition along the way. The initiative has been shortlisted for the KZN Premier’s Service Excellence Awards in the Most Effective Food Security and Agricultural Programme category, showing the collaborative need for food security, healthcare and community upliftment  Launched in 2024, the food garden was created to help patients on chronic medication access nutritious food. For many, food insecurity makes sticking to treatment plans incredibly difficult. This garden offers a practical solution that supports recovery of these local patients, literally from the ground up. Focus on growing health The project initially focused on a group of female clinic patients, many living with chronic conditions. By involving them directly in growing fresh produce, the garden helped improve household nutrition, improved health outcomes, and gave patients a real sense of purpose.  The initiative is led by the Social Primary Healthcare Food Security Division and brought to life through strong partnerships between healthcare services, agricultural experts and community organisations. What exactly is an aeroponic garden? This isn’t your average veggie patch. One of the standout features of the project is its aeroponic garden system, which is a soil-free way of growing plants, with roots suspended in the air and misted with a nutrient-rich solution. The result is less water use, minimal maintenance, a

South Africa’s blues-rock legend Dan Patlansky is kicking off 2026 with his epic Solo tour, after receiving a UK Blues Awards nomination. Patlansky was officially nominated for International Artist of the Year, and while he didn’t make it to the final listing, he’ll no doubt admit: ‘It’s an honour just to be nominated!’.  A global blues powerhouse With 11 studio albums and more than two decades on the road, Patlansky is one of South Africa’s most internationally recognised blues artists. He remains one of only two musicians – alongside Joe Bonamassa – to score two global #1 and two global #2 Blues Rock Albums on Blues Rock Review USA. From Dear Silence Thieves and Introvertigo to Perfection Kills, Shelter of Bones and 2024’s Movin’ On (voted #3 Blues Rock Album of the Year), his catalogue continues to push modern blues forward. Local fans will also remember when he opened for Bruce Springsteen in Johannesburg – a full-circle moment for a guitarist who has built his career note by note. The Solo Electric tour heads to KZN Now, KZN gets to experience him up close and unfiltered on his brand-new Solo Electric tour: 27 February 2026 – Jaxx, Port Shepstone  28 February 2026 – Seabrooke’s Theatre, Durban 1 March 2026 – The Old Mushroom Farm, Karkloof Check out Quicket for ticket details. Expect searing guitar work, raw vocals and the kind of electric intensity that has earned him global acclaim. TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban😋 The best restaurant

After more than 20 years of legal wrangling and red tape, work on the long-awaited Durban Film Studio appears to finally be edging toward reality! The R7.5 billion Durban Film Studio, planned for the old Natal Command site on Durban’s beachfront, is now closer than ever to breaking ground. According to the latest Mercury report, the Site Framework Plan is being finalised, and a Service Level Agreement is nearing completion.  KwaZulu-Natal Finance MEC Francois Rodgers met with developer Anant Singh last year to help unblock remaining obstacles, including bulk electricity supply and disputed rates. With backing from the Presidential eThekwini Working Group, it’s hoped construction could begin within weeks of final approval of the building plan. The long road to here The 21-hectare site was purchased in 2003 through Singh’s company, Rinaldo Investments, but the deal was challenged in court for nearly a decade. The Constitutional Court eventually ruled in Singh’s favour. Further complications arose when the South African National Defence Force attempted to reclaim the land in 2017. In 2021, the Durban High Court ordered the transfer of the property, clearing a major hurdle. Rezoning was completed in 2022, but bureaucratic delays and municipal processes continued to stall construction. Now, with approvals advancing, the city’s annual report lists the studio as one of its highest-impact catalyst projects. The visionary behind it: Anant Singh At the centre of this decades-long effor

One of KwaZulu-Natal’s most iconic natural landmarks is getting some well-deserved attention – Howick Falls! Well, not the falls exactly – that’s a timeless natural wonder - but the tourism site surrounding the 95m waterfall.  Based in the KZN Midlands, Howick is getting attention for all the right reasons. In December 2025, this quiet town earned the Daily Maverick Small Town of the Year KZN Winner. And now, the dream of upgrading the town’s most iconic natural attraction is becoming a reality.  What sets Howick Falls apart is that, unlike the many waterfalls found throughout the KZN region, this one is located within the town’s CBD! Years of neglect led to safety concerns and pollution, but that’s all about to change! uMngeni Municipality, Umeda and the provincial Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs are driving the area’s revitalisation, turning the Falls precinct into a vibrant tourism hub once again. What’s included in the upgrade? The project, now backed by more than R15 million in funding, focuses on improving: Safer walking paths and viewing platforms Upgraded lighting, security and access control Interpretive signage and tourism infrastructure New shelters for crafters and informal traders A designated braai area and landscaped family park There are also exciting plans to lease and operate the Gorge Walk area, opening the door for guided hikes, eco-adventure experiences, rock climbing and possibly even ziplining and suspension bridg

This Valentine’s Day, skip the overpriced set menus and let nature do the flirting. From Blue Flag beaches on the KZN South Coast to epic game drives on the North, or the misty mountains inland, KZN’s natural beauty delivers romance that no restaurant reservation can compete with. Time to hit the beach Nothing says KwaZulu-Natal quite like a seaside stroll. Walk hand in hand along Durban’s beautiful Golden Mile or have a picnic on the beach. Head further north to uMhlanga Main Beach or uMdloti Beach and grab a drink at one of the many trendy restaurants in the area. For a more laidback vibe, head south and claim a grassy patch at Scottburgh Main Beach, where you can enjoy fish and chips and some great surf! Also read: The best beaches in Durban Take the scenic route If your partner swoons over sweeping views, hit the road and head through the Valley of a 1000 Hills. Forested slopes, deep gorges and winding roads set the mood for meaningful conversations and spontaneous photo stops. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous (and have a 4x4 vehicle to match) tackle the legendary Sani Pass or plan a hike in Monks Cowl in the beautiful Drakensberg.  Also read: The best small town experiences near Durban Get wild at heart If you’re in the mood for a nature hike, explore the dramatic cliffs of Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve on the KZN South Coast or hike to waterfalls in Krantzkloof Nature Reserve near the scenic town of Kloof. For a truly unforgettable day, head north to Hluhluwe-iMfol

Valentine’s Day is all about love, and this Saturday (14 February), Amanzimtoti is calling on you to show you have heart by entering the Big Walk for Young Warriors – Childhood Cancer Awareness Walk. It’s all about dressing up, showing up and stepping out for children bravely fighting cancer. This will be a 5km community walk starting at Lords & Legends Sports Café on Riverside Road from 7am. And when they say everyone is invited – they mean everyone! You’re welcome to bring your fur babies (properly leashed of course) to accompany you on the walk. Organisers have lots planned for the day, including fun lucky draws with great prizes, plus a Best Dressed Team Challenge, so go big and bold if you want to go home with a great prize.  All funds raised go to Khanya Hospice in Umkomaas, supporting young cancer warriors and their families. Every R30 entry helps make a difference. What you should know Date: Saturday, 14 February 2026 Time: 7am Distance: 5km Entry Fee: R30 Start Venue: Lords & Legends Cricket Field, Riverside Rd, Amanzimtoti Register: https://forms.gle/iKw7jajgqVawSDgT7  Contact: Christa Human on 078 379 1346 or 063 865 4192 | projects@totilions.org Make a weekend of it in Amanzimtoti Once you’ve clocked your 5km, the Sapphire Coast is yours to explore! Some great activities to enjoy:  Cool off at Amanzimtoti Main Beach Take the kids to Splash Water World Enjoy a lazy brunch along the promenade. Head to the nearby Marine Protected Area, Aliwal Shoal, for diving or

Kung Thai, the award-winning Thai restaurant loved by Durbanites, has officially opened its doors in Salt Rock. No flights, no visas, just seriously good Thai food right on Ballito’s doorstep. We got some behind-the-scenes answers to the questions everyone is asking... Who’s behind Kung Thai? Kung Thai was founded in 2010 by Thai-born head chef Nina and her husband Kit Stee, who opened the original restaurant in Durban North. From day one, their goal was simple: real Thai food that tastes as it does in Thailand.Nina remains hands-on in the kitchen, developing and perfecting recipes before they ever reach a plate, ensuring every dish tells an authentic story. This commitment has earned Kung Thai a fiercely loyal following and multiple Thai Select awards. The new Salt Rock brand is franchised by Andile and Ayanda Ngidi and will be part of the La Vie Hospitality Group. Why open in Salt Rock now? The KZN North Coast is booming, and while the dining scene has expanded rapidly, they felt there was a need for authentic Thai cuisine at this Salt Rock spot. Located at the New Salt Rock Centre, the restaurant adds a fresh layer to an already exciting mix of Italian, seafood, sushi, and steakhouse options, making the strip a one-stop food destination. Kung Thai Salt Rock What makes Kung Thai different? It’s the combination of authenticity and modern flair. The founders are still deeply involved, the ingredients are fresh, and the flavours are unapologetically bold. While the food stay

The impending arrival of Valentine’s Day this Saturday tends to send people into a rose-searching frenzy. After all, nothing says ‘I love you’ quite like a fragrant bouquet of red blooms. While supermarkets and florists will be bursting with roses, there’s one place in KwaZulu-Natal that feels infinitely more romantic and far more memorable: Ludwig’s Star Roses in Assagay, tucked into the lush Valley of 1000 Hills. The Man Behind the Magic Ludwig Taschner himself has spent decades turning South Africans into proud rose growers. From publishing his first catalogue in 1975 to now offering over 1 000 varieties, his passion has bloomed into a nationwide love affair with roses. He has several rose farms around the country, and his monthly Talking Roses newsletter keeps tens of thousands of rose lovers inspired year-round.  Meet the KZN Show-Stoppers Thanks to KZN’s warm, semi-tropical climate, roses enjoy a far longer flowering period than in many other parts of the country. While classics like Iceberg, Durban July and My Granny remain firm favourites, visitors constantly go for the timeless icons such as Papa Meilland, Mister Lincoln, Blue Moon, Double Delight and the ever-popular Just Joey. From velvety reds to deep mauves and buttery apricots, the kal. Ludwig’s Star Roses is renowned for its Eco-Chic™ roses, celebrated for being ever-flowering and perfectly suited to KZN conditions. Beyond the blooms, you’ll find fresh-cut flowers, rose-inspired products, and the much-loved Tho

This is the year to try new things, to go on adventures, and to start ticking off those bucket-list items…starting with a drink at the highest pub in Africa - The Sani Mountain Lodge. If you’re going to enjoy a beer with a view, why not do it at 2,874 metres above sea level? Sitting on top of the legendary Sani Pass, just inside the Lesotho border next to KwaZulu-Natal, the pub forms part of Sani Mountain Escape: a mountain hideaway that’s been enchanting travellers for more than 50 years. The site itself dates back to the early 1900s, when it served as a humble trading post for those brave enough to cross the pass. In 1963, David Alexander officially opened the pub, creating one of Southern Africa’s most iconic experiences. Today, it’s a rite of passage for hikers, bikers, road-trippers, and adventure-seekers looking to soar to new heights! Expect crackling fires, rustic charm, warm hospitality and the most incredible views. In summer, you can enjoy crisp, never-ending mountain views. In winter, a blanket of thick snow attracts many excited snow seekers! What is Sani Pass? The Sani Pass is one of Southern Africa’s most iconic mountain routes that winds through the Drakensberg Mountains, connecting South Africa with Lesotho.  The pass climbs to an altitude of 2,876 metres above sea level, and is known for its hairpin bends, steep gradients, and breathtaking views! Don’t Miss Out on These! But the highest pub in Africa is just the beginning. Make a proper adventure of it and t

If Durban’s relentless humidity is getting you down, it’s time to pack your overnight bag and head to the KZN Midlands. Cooler temperatures, rolling green hills, and wide-open skies are calling. Plus, we have the perfect weekend activity for you: Sip and Pick on Saturday, 7 February.  Sip and Pick is sort of the countryside evolution of the Sip and Paint trend. Instead of brushes and canvases, you’re handed snips and a bucket, and instead of a studio, you’re set loose in a flower field. It’s creative, calming and low-pressure. Hosted by Midlands Flower Fields, you get the chance to wander through a blooming patch of seasonal flowers, picking your favourites to take home. Sip and Pick works just as well as a solo reset as it does for a catch-up with friends or a relaxed date – maybe an early Valentine’s experience? Once the picking is done, the sipping begins. As the sun starts to set, you settle in to arrange your flowers while enjoying floral mocktails, wine and light snacks. It’s social without being noisy, and creative without being intimidating! Beyond the flowers and the wine, there’s the simple joy of being outdoors. Time spent in nature is known to reduce stress, lift moods and restore energy levels, making this the ideal antidote to a sticky Durban summer. What You Need to Know Event: Snip and Sip Experience at Midlands Flower Fields Date: Saturday, 7 February Time: From 3.45pm until dusk Cost: R280 per person Includes: Flowers, bucket and snips, light snacks, wine a

Durban has turned up the heat this week! With temperatures climbing into the mid-30s and high humidity making conditions feel even more uncomfortable, many people are flocking to our city’s beaches to cool off. Durban’s stretch of golden coastline – home to some of the country’s best swimming beaches – is the most tempting escape from the February swelter. But as inviting as the ocean is right now, water safety must take centre stage.  Lifesaving SA has issued a strong call for caution as a heatwave grips and high tides roll along the KwaZulu-Natal coast. According to Lifesaving SA, beachgoers are urged to only swim at beaches and facilities where lifeguards are on duty, especially during this period of increased ocean activity. Dangerous Swimming Conditions Lifesaving SA has warned that the arrival of the full moon last Sunday is likely to trigger spring tides this week, typically bringing lower-than-normal low tides and higher-than-normal high tides, which can significantly alter sea conditions. Low tides can create stronger seaward pull, while high tides often result in powerful and unpredictable waves, particularly at more exposed beaches.  Adding to the risk are rip currents, which can form anywhere along the coastline and at any time, often without warning. These fast-moving channels of water are one of the biggest dangers to swimmers and even confident ocean-goers. If you’re trying to beat the heat, remember to choose beaches with active lifeguard patrols, swim only be