Durban: Drakensberg, Mandela Capture Site and Howick Falls

Drakensberg, Durban



Discover the natural beauty and history of the Natal Midlands on a day trip from Durban. Visit Howick Falls, the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, and the Drakensberg Mountains.

Guided Day Trip from Durban to Natal Midlands, Howick Falls, Nelson Mandela Capture Site, and Drakensberg Mountains

This full-day guided tour departs from Durban and suits travelers interested in nature, history, and hiking in KwaZulu-Natal.

Highlights

  • Scenic drive through the Natal Midlands and Drakensberg Mountains
  • Visit the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, marking Mandela’s 1962 arrest
  • See Howick Falls, a 95-meter waterfall on the Umgeni River
  • Hike in the Drakensberg Mountains with varied trail options
  • Round-trip transportation included

Description

Depart from Durban and head to the Natal Midlands. Your first stop is Howick Falls, a 95-meter waterfall dropping into the Umgeni River, surrounded by natural beauty and local legends, popular with hikers and nature lovers.

Next, visit the Nelson Mandela Capture Site near Howick, where Mandela was arrested in 1962. The site features a large outdoor sculpture made of 50 steel columns that form Mandela’s face as you approach. The museum onsite tells the story of Mandela’s life, his fight for freedom, and the arrest’s significance in South Africa’s history.

Continue to the Drakensberg Mountains for a hiking experience. Trails range from easy walks through meadows to challenging routes with panoramic views. Along the way, see diverse wildlife and waterfalls while exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After hiking, there is a lunch break (own expense) before returning to Durban, with arrival around 6 PM.

Includes

  • Guided tour of Howick Falls
  • Visit to Nelson Mandela Capture Site
  • Hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains
  • Return transportation to Durban
  • Pickups and drop-offs from cruise ships, hotels, and the airport

Excludes

  • Lunch
  • Personal expenses

Important Information

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection
  • Carry water to stay hydrated
  • Camera recommended for scenic views
  • Lunch is not included; bring snacks or plan to buy a meal during the break

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes round-trip transportation from Durban, guided visits to the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, Howick Falls, and hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains.
The tour departs from Durban with convenient round-trip transportation included.
Yes, the tour features hiking trails in the Drakensberg Mountains with panoramic views.
Howick Falls is a 95-meter waterfall located on the Umgeni River near Howick.
The tour includes a visit to the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, where Mandela was arrested in 1962.
Yes, convenient round-trip transportation from Durban is included in the tour price.
The tour operates year-round, but check the website for current hours and weather conditions for optimal hiking.
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended; specific gear details can be found on the tour website.
Yes, the site is suitable for visitors of all ages as part of the guided tour from Durban.

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