Tourists will now have access to previously unchartered parts of the South Coast now that a new hiking trail has been established – it is creating jobs and will add to the local economy as well.
South Coast, South Africa (25 October 2022) – South Africans love to get outdoors during the summer months, in fact, if the weather is good we would be outdoors all year long. The South Coast tourism team announced this month that they have developed a new hiking trail along the South Coast.
The Weza Hiking Trail was opened on Tuesday, 18 October 2022. The 8km Weza Hiking Trail starts in the iKhwezi rural area, approximately 10km from the farming town of Harding. A trained local guide will take visitors from the junction of the Mawane and Weza rivers, the latter being a northern tributary of the mighty uMtamvuna River. Visitors will traverse two amaKhosi areas, KwaMachi and KwaJali in Umuziwabantu, finishing at a real hidden gem, the Mkhoba Waterfall.
“The establishment of hiking trails satisfies our tourists’ desire to experience the natural beauty of the Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom, while also expanding the economic footprint of tourism into the hinterland,” said Phelisa Mangcu, CEO of South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE).
“Following the successful launch of the Umzumbe River Trail in May this year, we’re excited to extend our trail options with the launch of the new Weza Hiking Trail just in time for the festive season! This guided trail will give visitors, during the holiday season and beyond, a first-hand experience of the rich cultural heritage of the KZN South Coast along the way.”
Hikers will enjoy some unique bird watching and wildlife spotting while crossing through indigenous forests and over rivers to incredible viewpoints. Most of the area is covered with a green carpet of grass known as the Aristida junciformis, which in Zulu is known as Ingongoni. This scenic walk will be enhanced by stories shared by the local guide.
For those who would like to extend their stay, there is comfortable accommodation at Ntozakhe homestay. Guests will learn more about the mixture of two local cultures, Zulu and Xhosa, while enjoying traditional meals and braais either at the homestay or a picnic spot overlooking the Weza River.
The establishment of the hiking trail means that the community will be able to cater to tourists needs and create employment for themselves.
Visitors can find out more about the Weza Hiking Trail here.
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