Port Shepstone

Port Shepstone, KwaZulu Natal | Port Shepstone is one of the largest towns of the KwaZulu Natal South Coast in South Africa

Port Shepstone, KwaZulu Natal

KwaZulu Natal, South Africa

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KwaZulu Natal

PORT SHEPSTONE - SOUTH COAST
The Apple Express, Port ShepstoneNorth Coast DolphinsPort Shepstone, KwaZulu Natal: Port Shepstone is one of the largest towns of the KwaZulu Natal South Coast in South Africa. In the 1860’s marble was found on the north bank of the Mzimkulu River. Some decided to settle here and attempted to open the river mouth for shipping. William Bazley succeeded in doing this and from 1880 ships could sail in onto the river. In 1882 a town was laid out and a group of 246 Norwegian immigrants settled in Port Shepstone during that year. After the opening of the railway in 1901, however, the harbor fell into disuse and eventually the river silted up again making it impossible to use. Many settlers of different origins boosted the town's economy and the town was named after former Natal Secretary for Native Affairs Theophilus Shepstone. Today, it has become a popular tourist destination and offers a diversity of attractions and activities.

Port Shepstone boasts unspoiled sandy beaches with warm waters rich in marine life. These waters are ideal for fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving and swimming. The 18km of coastline and stretches of rolling surf are ideal for surfing, ski-boating and jet-skiing. Also, take the fantastic opportunity to go on a boat trip and watch whales and swim with dolphins!

The Mzimkulu river means 'Home of all rivers'. It is the largest of the South Coast Rivers and meets the sea at Port Shepstone. Enjoy leisure boat trips on these glistening waters and admire the rich wildlife and bird life along the banks. If you would prefer a little activity, there’s river rafting, boating, canoeing, windsurfing and water skiing to excite you for hours on end.

The Mzimkulu River cuts inland and joins the Mzinkulwana River to form the 24km long Oribi Gorge. This gorge boasts spectacular rocky outcrops such as the Overhanging Rock and the shimmering 170m Lehr's Falls. Here, if you are brave enough, you can enjoy the thrill of the world's highest commercial abseil at 110m. There are also hiking trails through beautiful scenery resonant with over 250 species of bird calls and the forest sounds of buck, baboons and monkeys.

For a little more relaxation, come and enjoy the panaromic views when you board The Banana Express. The Banana Express is a steam train that offers trips through indigenous forests, sugar cane fields and green hills, dotted with traditional villages.

To discover more of this town’s fascinating history, visit the Port Shepstone Museum. This charming museum details the town's history with a series of exhibits carrying a maritime theme. The 27 000 candela lighthouse still stands at the mouth of the Mzimkulu River. The present cast iron lighthouse was erected during 1906 and today you can still explore this unique lighthouse.

Port Shepstone boasts a few superb nature reserves that are home to leopards, baboons, antelope and diverse amounts of exquisite bird species. Take a trip through these nature reserves and explore the amazing wild life in superb landscapes. The vast amount of fun filled activities in striking vistas is what makes Port Shepstone so popular. Whether wishing to just unwind or be adventurous, Port Shepstone has something for everyone!
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Port Shepstone, KwaZulu Natal | Port Shepstone is one of the largest towns of the KwaZulu Natal South Coast in South Africa

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