East Coast holidays

Durban’s Golden Mile runs beside the Indian Ocean, with beaches and surf breaks linked by a long promenade. Walk or cycle the beachfront, watch the surfers at the piers, or head to uShaka Marine World at the southern end. Beyond the sand, the city’s Indian and Zulu influences show up in its markets, street food and curry houses.

The hills around Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift were the setting for two major battles of the Anglo-Zulu War in 1879. Guided visits help explain the events and the ground on which they unfolded. Take time at both sites to understand their distinct stories and the people who fought and died here.

In the Eastern Cape, the Wild Coast follows a long stretch of rugged shoreline, with green hills, river valleys and beaches below the cliffs. At Coffee Bay, a guided walk leads to Hole in the Wall, a sea-carved rock arch at the mouth of the Mpako River. The region is also part of the Xhosa heartland, with local heritage and community life closely tied to the land.

Tear into a soft loaf filled with hot curry: the bread soaks up the thick, spice-scented gravy, and the piece scooped from the middle becomes a handy mop. Fillings range from lamb and chicken to beans, with the heat building as you eat. Born in Durban’s Indian community, bunny chow is now a city staple; order one from a local café or takeaway.

At a shisa nyama, the coals glow, meat sizzles on the grill and smoke carries the promise of lunch. It’s often served with soft pap and chakalaka, whose chilli and tomato bring a sharper edge to each mouthful. In Umlazi, local eateries serve shisa nyama alongside other South African dishes; a township food tour can add local history to the meal.

Pumba Private Game Reserve spans bushveld and lake country in the malaria-free Eastern Cape. Morning and afternoon drives take you out with a guide to look for the Big Five and the reserve’s free-roaming white and tawny lions. With meals and snacks included back at the lodge, pause over lunch, watch the light move across the water, and listen to the bush settle before the next drive.

Pumba Water Lodge’s 12 stone-walled, thatched chalets look across Lake Cariega. Step from the deck into your plunge pool or use the outdoor shower, with the lake and bush in view. Mornings bring changing light across the water; after cooler evening drives, a fireplace warms the chalet. A spacious bathroom and private viewing deck make it easy to slow down between game drives.

Discover the wonders and wildlife of Cape Town and Mauritius on this 16-day adventure here.

With 30+ years of experience, we have the expertise, connections, and the personal touch to build your ideal trip - whether you want a luxury escape, a solo adventure, or time spent discovering the world together. Not sure where to start? It all begins with a conversation, so get in touch and let’s make your next holiday your best one yet.

Find your Travel Counsellor