After crossing the Tugela River, the first town one comes to is Gingindlovu, once one of the strongholds of Zulu king Cetshayo. Two battles were fought in the area during the Anglo Zulu War of 1879. The name means ‘ swallower of the elephant’ in Zulu. During the Anglo Boer War the British soldiers, unable to get their tongues around the Zulu pronunciation, dubbed the town ‘Gin Gin I love you’.

GENERAL INFORMATION

How to get there

Mtunzini 18 km, Eshowe 22 km, Mandini 23 km

NATURE

Amatikulu Nature Reserve

Situated approximately 100 km from Durban on the Indian Ocean coastline, between the Tugela and Amatikulu River mouths, is one of the few places in southern Africa where wildlife can be seen feeding on forested dunes overlooking the ocean.

Accommodation

Zangolozo Tented Camp is built on wooden platforms overlooking the Amatikulu River and a panoramic view of the sea. This self catering bush camp supports four comfortable, spacious 2 bedded tents furnished to rest camp standards and serviced daily. A communal ablution block, connected to the units by a board walk, has hot and cold water with showers, toilets and handbasins. The camp’s kitchen is equipped with a gas stove, fridge and freezer, as well as a good supply of crockery and cutlery. Meals can be prepared in the kitchen by the camp’s trained cooks or visitors may braai at the braai area. The dining area is furnished with tables and benches.

Activities

Visitors to Amatikulu Nature Reserve can indulge in a variety of activities, including game drives and self guided walks which take the visitor through the many vegetation types found in the reserve. The coastal forest and grasslands attract a variety of birdlife which will satisfy the keen birdwatcher. There is a thriving population of giraffe, zebra, waterbuck and a number of smaller antelope in the reserve. Other activities include canoeing on the Amatikulu Estuary and the Nyoni River, boating (Maximum motor 15 hp) and easy access to the beach where surf angling is good. Freshwater fishing in the estuary is also extremely rewarding.

Regulations

No pets are allowed. Generators are not allowed. water sports such as skiing, yachting, board sailing etc. are not permitted. Firearms must be declared on arrival. Portable radios should be played with great discretion. Due to the presence of crocodiles in the estuary, swimming is not recommended.

Malaria

Anti malaria tablets should be taken when visiting the reserve

Accommodation in and around Gingindlovu