Located on KwaZulu-Natal’s Sapphire Coast, Amanzimtoti is a beachside town south of Durban. Its name translates from Zulu as “Sweet Waters” in reference to King Shaka's reaction after drinking from a local stream. The area was famously visited by Richard Philip King in 1842 as he sought help for the besieged British garrison at Port Natal.
Things to do in Amanzimtoti
For a retail fix, head to the Galleria Shopping Mall, where you’ll find discount department stores, supermarkets and fashion retailers. Enjoy a skate on the Galleria Ice Rink or get behind the wheel at Wicked Karting before refuelling at Ocean Basket, Valentino’s or Mr. Brown’s. The Galleria Shopping Mall is also home to a children’s play area and a multi-screen cinema complex.
Bird watchers can visit the Umdoni Bird Sanctuary, which encompasses four hectares on a tributary of the Amanzimtoti River. Stretch your legs on the short walking trail that winds its way through the sanctuary and accesses three observation hides. In addition to white-faced ducks and spur-winged geese, you might also spot the endangered spotted ground thrush.
If you’re visiting in the summer months, you can cool off at Splash Water World, which overlooks the sands of Amanzimtoti Main Beach. Ride one of the 10 water slides, race your family and friends down the two-lane tube or splash around in the large recreational pool. The complex also features braai facilities and an ice cream station, plus rental sun loungers and umbrellas.
Getting around Amanzimtoti
Amanzimtoti is around 25 minutes' drive from the centre of Durban and one hour from King Shaka International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Africa and the Middle East. Buses connect to Amanzimtoti and travel throughout the town, connecting most of its attractions.