Thing to do
Golden Mile Beachfront Promenade
Durban's Golden Mile is a paved beachfront promenade running from the Point and uShaka to Blue Lagoon, lined with beaches, piers, pools and rickshaw pullers.
PheZulu Safari Park, Valley of a Thousand Hills
PheZulu Safari Park at Botha's Hill combines Zulu dancing shows, short game drives, a reptile park and a cafe with views over the Valley of a Thousand Hills.
At a glance
- Type
- Zulu cultural show, reptile park and game drives
- Area
- Botha's Hill, Durban, South Africa
- Opening
- Open daily · 08:00–16:30
- Official site
- phezulusafaripark.co.za
Good to know
- Zulu dancing shows
- Game drives
- Reptile park
- Nguni Cafe
- Valley views
- Accommodation
Why we recommend it
PheZulu Safari Park sits on the edge of the Valley of a Thousand Hills at Botha's Hill, about 35 kilometres inland from central Durban, and it is one of the most popular half-day trips from the city. The setting is the main draw: the park looks out over the Valley of a Thousand Hills, a landscape of rolling ridges inland from the coast. The park packs several activities into one compact site, which makes it a convenient introduction to Zulu culture and local wildlife for visitors with limited time.
The Zulu dancing show is performed by members of the Gasa clan and runs four times a day, at 10:00, 11:30, 14:00 and 15:30. Guided game drives in open 4x4 vehicles leave at regular intervals through the day and need a minimum of two people; sunset drives can be arranged if you book and pay in advance. All drives depend on the weather. The reptile park has crocodile enclosures, venomous and non-venomous snakes, a Creature Cave and a tortoise park. For something more unusual, the Fear Factor option lets small groups eat a meal inside the crocodile enclosure, which must be booked ahead and is not offered during feeding times.
The park suits families, first-time visitors to South Africa and cruise passengers looking for a structured outing. Children usually enjoy the reptiles and the dancing, and the game drives give a gentle taste of a safari, although they are not a substitute for a visit to a large reserve such as Hluhluwe-iMfolozi. Allow three to four hours to see a show, take a drive and visit the reptile park, with time for breakfast or lunch at the Nguni Cafe, which overlooks the valley.
The park is open every day from 08:00 to 16:30, except on Christmas Day and on the days of the Amashova cycle race and the Comrades Marathon. Each activity is paid for separately, so decide in advance which ones you want. For those who want to stay, there are bed-and-breakfast rooms in the Lodge House and self-catering units.
Most visitors drive out along Old Main Road through Hillcrest, which is about 10 kilometres away, or join a guided Valley of a Thousand Hills tour from Durban. Several cafes along Old Main Road make good stops on the way.
PheZulu Safari Park, Valley of a Thousand Hills FAQs
What are the opening hours?
Daily from 08:00 to 16:30. Closed on Christmas Day and on Amashova and Comrades Marathon race days.
When are the Zulu dancing shows?
At 10:00, 11:30, 14:00 and 15:30 daily.
How often do game drives run?
Several times a day from 09:00 to 15:30, with a minimum of two people. Sunset drives must be booked and paid in advance.
How far is it from Durban?
About 35 km from central Durban, at Botha's Hill.
Can I eat there?
Yes. The Nguni Cafe serves breakfast and lunch with views over the valley.
Is it good for children?
Yes. The reptile park, dancing and short game drives suit families.
How long should I allow?
Three to four hours to see a show, take a drive, visit the reptile park and eat.
Can I stay overnight?
Yes. There are bed-and-breakfast rooms and self-catering units on site.