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Guided Township Tours

Esikhawini

Nseleni

Vulindlela

Some 150kms from Durban on the Zululand Coast immediately south of Richards Bay, lie the rural townships of Esikhawini and Nseleni, and the university campus of Vulindlela. These three community points have formed a tourism initiative, which offers visitors the opportunity to experience the real Africa today.

Here the Zulu residents live and work in modern surroundings, while embracing the culture, traditions and social customs of their proud ancestors. Under the personal supervision of an accredited tour guide, you are invited to discover how old Africa and new Africa have melded to create a fascinating and unique cultural crucible.

The township of Esikhawini (which means the estuary where the river and sea meet) enjoys sea frontage and several popular beaches). It was named by Zulu King Cetshwayo in 1882 while on his journey to meet Queen Victoria in London. A monument on the beach marking the place where the king boarded the boat for the voyage is currently being restored.

Nseleni with a population of some 14 000 is situated 20 kms west of Richards Bay. It derives its name from the river which runs past the township. Both townships offer visitors an exciting range of things to do and places to see. To truly absorb the vibe of the townships there are welcoming taverns, where locals gather to exchange news and views and storytellers recall past events in the history of the area. The bill of fare ranges from traditional brews and Zulu delicacies to branded beers and an outdoor braai.

Most visits during your stay include attending the traditional court, presided over by the inkosi (traditional leader) of the tribal authority. Dancing and singing is very much a part of the lifestyle of the Zulu nation, and there are two competition winning dance groups, which perform for the delight and entertainment of visitors.

African arts and crafts – ranging from basket weaving and beadwork to pottery and woodcarving – can be viewed in either dedicated craft centres or at an individual's roadside place of business.

Vulindlela, the campus town of the University of Zululand offers much more than student activity. Here you will find Professor Gabela's Museum House. In addition to Zulu crafts and artefacts, the attraction for visitors is the opportunity to meet the professor, a skilled raconteur who captivates his guests with the history and traditions of the Zulu Nation.

For the nature enthusiast, beauty spots such as Icubu Lake and the Nseleni Nature Reserve offer prolific birdlife and a range of African game, while anglers have the choice of surf casting or dam and river fishing.

Accommodation

Accommodation in the townships is relatively limited. However, there are several establishments in the area catering for tourists, ranging from the YMCA and township B&B's to guest lodges and guest cottages.

Health
There are private medical facilities and health clinics in the area. Visitors should consult accredited tour operators or the Tourism Information offices regarding any precautions required for malaria.

Climate:

The summer months are hot and sunny, interrupted by rainy days. December to march is particulary humid along the coast but offshore breezes provide pleasant relief. The winter months are usually mild and dry

Summary of Activities

• Esikhawini:
  * Mandonas Production

  * King Cetshwayo's Monument

  * Traditional Chemist

  * Traditional Court

  * Amatshitshi Emuelo Zulu Dance

  * Esikhawini Beach

  * Icubu Lake

  * Eyemuelo Crafters

  * Club Shadow

  * Kuhle Kwethu Promotion

• Mandlanzini Agri-Village

  *Mandlanzini Woodwork

• Nseleni

  * Ukuphuma Kwelanga Zulu Dance

  * Dumisani's Craft Centre

  * Traditional Chemist

  * Nseleni Market Stalls

  * Nseleni Nature Reserve

  * Fikile's Tavern

• Vulindlela

  * University of Zululand

  * Professor Gabela's Museum