Umzinto, South Coast
Named after the Mzinto River, Umzinto is located on the Umdoni Coast in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. The Umzinto River is so named because of its destructive nature during floods. The planters and millers started growing cane on the hilly terrain around the Mzinto River from 1857. A year later, the first public sugar company started up in the area. Sadly, 7 years later the mill was struck by lightning which lead to total bankruptcy. Today however, Umzinto remains a busy town with a mixture of colonial and Indian architecture.
Umzinto is a town that has lasted the ages and grown steadily over the many years of endless trading. Indians that were brought in to work on the cane farms in 1860 have made a valuable contribution to economy of the town. Shopping in this little town is an "Eastern" experience and boasts a lot of charm.
A stroll in this reserve is a spectacular experience. The 11km “Happy Gold Mine” trail in the reserve leads to an aged gold mine which still holds the mine shafts as well as a steam traction machine with the main traction engine and ball mill machine in place. The reserve offers superb picnic sites and walks. King Shaka also visited this area on his travels and within the reserve lays the words: “Umthombo Kashaka” meaning a well of fresh water, found by his warriors. According to historians, Shaka relaxed here on his homeward journey in 1828, whilst his army sported on the beach making mock attacks against the waves that are today enjoyed by holidaymakers.
Umzinto's beaches are serene and picturesque. Shark nets make for safe swimming, snorkelling and surfing. The warm waters complement the unique beauty of these beaches and boast ample tropical fish and stunning coral reefs. These beaches are also popular fishing destinations.
In the vicinity
Hotels & other accommodation options

Dolphin Point B&B
Dolphin Point offers accommodation in Amanzimtoti. Each room boasts a TV with DStv (hotel bouquet), a room phone, Wi-Fi internet access, air cond...

Mattaniah Unit One
Mattaniah Unit One is a cosy apartment offering accommodation in Winklespruit. The apartment is within walking distance of the quiet and beautifu...

Bondi Beach 64
Bondi Beach 64 is a self-catering holiday apartment in Shelly Beachwith three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The living area is furnished with a com...

Carpe Diem 4
Carpe Diem 4 is a self-catering holiday apartment in Manaba Beach, located in a secure complex, across the road from Margate Tidal Pool. The comp...

San Lameer Villa 2501
San Lameer Villa 2501 offers accommodation in San Lameer in the prestigious San Lameer Estate. In the estate there is a shop, a number of restaur...

Casa Alexandra Holiday House
Casa Alexandra is a lovely holiday home in Ramsgate South for a group of up to ten guests. The home has sprawling lawns and gorgeous sea views. I...

The Estuary Hotel and Spa
The Estuary Hotel and Spa is a beautiful and private Hotel, Restaurant, Spa & Conference Centre on the KwaZulu Natal South Coast. Wake up to the ...

Summer Place 36
Located in the secure Summer Place complex in Shelly Beach, Summer Place 36 Holiday Apartment offers accommodation for six guests. The complex of...

Seagull 508
Seagull 508 provides holiday accommodation in Margate right on Main Beach. Set in the holiday town of Margate, the unit is within close distance ...
Noteworthy attractions

Mkambati Nature Reserve
Flanked on either side by the forested ravines of the Msikaba and Mtentu Rivers, Mkambati Nature Reserve is 8000 hectares of coastal reserve that...

Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve
The Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve is a wonderfully scenic area offering excellent hiking opportunities. The area boasts cliffs and forests and spect...

Umtamvuna Nature Reserve
The Umtamvuna Nature Reserve is famous for its magnificent views of the deep Umtamvuna River Gorge. Umtamvuna is a treasure house of rare and end...

Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve
The Vernon Crookes is a delightful and convenient reserve for travellers holidaying on the South Coast of KwaZulu Natal. Vernon Crookes Nature Re...

Amanzimtoti Golf Club
Set just south of Durban and on the white sandy shores of KwaZulu Natal lays the Amanzimtoti Golf Course and Country Club. Originally opened, in ...

Margate Country Club
Margate golf course game may appear to be easy at first, don't be lulled into contentment; this is an extensively challenging course. The Margate...

Port Shepstone Country Club
Port Shepstone's golf course is one of the most popular along the South Coast and is well supported by local and overseas visitors alike. The cou...

San Lameer Country Club
The San Lameer golf course is situated on the Durban South Coast and is rated one of the top 30 South African golf courses. Opened in 1922 the co...

Scottburgh Golf Club
Scottburgh Golf Club's undulating golf course has a most attractive setting with the sight and sounds of the Indian Ocean always in the backgroun...
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