Why You Should Experience Durban's Inanda Heritage Route

The greater Durban area has so much to explore, from the sun-kissed coastline to the towering Drakensberg Mountains and the suburban tranquillity of areas such as Hillcrest and Kloof. There is an adventure waiting around every corner. The Valley of a Thousand Hills is a place in which a rich cultural heritage exists, with its own locations of significance to the country, amazing nature and wildlife and colourful, friendly, eccentric locals with their own traditions and customs.

Next time you’re in the KwaZulu-Natal province why not get out there and see everything that is on offer, here is a basic guide to the Inanda Heritage Route.

Phoenix Settlement

Image: Hear on Earth

Some may or may not know that Mahatma Gandhi has a long history in South Africa. This is why a museum was built in his memory. It’s situated in the same location where he used to live in the Phoenix Settlement, which is in the East Coast city of Durban. The house was rebuilt after it was engulfed in flames just after the 1985 Inanda riots. Today it serves as a pivotal structure in South Africa’s diverse history.

Ohlange Institute

Image: Picking Up The Tabb

This could very well be one of the most significant schools in South Africa for two very important reasons. Firstly, it was the first school in the country to be owned by a person of colour and it was also the school where Nelson Mandela voted during South Africa’s first democratic elections.

Shembe Settlement of Ekuphakameni

Image: Drive South Africa

The Shembe church founded by Isaiah Mloyiswa Mdliwamafa Shembe is one of the most significant African churches. The Shembe settlement is known as the ‘place for spiritual upliftment. Isaiah Mloyiswa Mdliwamafa Shembe died in 1935 and is buried in Ekuphakameni. A shrine was built in his memory.

Mzinyathi Falls

Image: Stray Along the Way

Situated only 20 minutes away from Gateway Theatre of Shopping (in Durban), is this breathtaking waterfall which is regarded to be one of the best-kept secrets in the entire Durban area. This will surely be one of the highlights of the Inanda Cultural tour and it promises some of the most scenic views in the area. It’s also a popular rock climbing destination.

Inanda Dam

Image: Kate Collins

This popular recreational area situated at the bottom of a towering valley is a great place to visit for so many reasons. Whether you’re visiting for the day or camping overnight, the Inanda Dam is always a good place to unwind with family and friends. Many people visit this area to participate in water sports.

Inanda Mountain Viewpoint

Image: Traveller24

These could arguably be the best view in Durban and the fact that it’s only 30 minutes away from the centre of the city gives one, even more, a reason to visit. Towering mountains and cliffs overlooking the entire Inanda Dam make it a visual spectacle for anyone who loves mountains and the great outdoors.

The Finfoot birding loop

Image: Last Minute Lodge

Durban’s Green Corridor is a hive of activity for bird watching enthusiasts, take a stroll along the uMgeni River Valley and be enthralled by an extensive assortment of birdlife. This iconic bird walking trail can be enjoyed in various ways, depending on how many birds you wish to see and how much time you have to spend.

Mma Mtshali’s

Image: Detour trails

Learn a new skill and craft with Mma Mtshali and her highly skilled group of bead makers. This is an experience you’re not likely to forget as it delves into a part of South African heritage which is only found in certain rural areas.

Unless you have arranged a tour it’s advised that you take your own vehicle. If you don’t own a vehicle, renting one will be your best option. No matter where you are travelling from car hire South Africa will ensure that your Inanda Heritage route outing is a success.