World heritage

Read about World Heritage Sites

Cathedral Peak Range, uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park

South African World Heritage Sites

Ancient kingdoms, diverse eco-systems, an invasion from space and a modern-day freedom struggle – all these are celebrated at South African World Heritage Sites.

The famous little golden rhino of Mapungubwe

Mapungubwe World Heritage Site

During a short but glorious reign, Mapungubwe in the Limpopo Valley was a kingdom that inspired art, trade and, ultimately, a great sense of awe.

Cultural World Heritage Sites

Acknowledged as being important to all humankind, our cultural World Heritage Sites preserve sites and places of cultural significance in South Africa.

uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park

The uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, running the length of KwaZulu-Natal, is a breathtaking World Heritage Site. Never has that well-used cliché, 'majestic mountains', been more appropriate.

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Historical Robben Island

A seemingly barren stretch of land adrift in the ocean, Robben Island has held the hopes and dreams of so many for so long.

Cradle of Humankind

If the Cradle of Humankind is the birthplace of Homo sapiens, then every visitor to Africa will feel a deep connection to this World Heritage Site.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

The iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a World Heritage Site boasting superlative natural beauty, unique ecological processes and exceptional species diversity.

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Lions have been re-introduced to the Karoo National Park.

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Top 10

Natural attractions in KwaZulu-Natal

ukhahlamba-Drakensberg Park

This magnificent World Heritage Site comprises a spectacular mountain range that stretches for over 200 kilometres, offering a nature-lover's smogasbord of majestic mountains, valleys, waterfalls and...
iSimangaliso Wetland Park

This World Heritage Site extends from Kosi Bay in the north (near to the Mozambique border) to Cape St Lucia in the south. A mix of five different ecosystems, this wetland wilderness boasts a wealth...
Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve

One of Africa’s oldest and most celebrated game parks – the Park covers over 96 000 hectares and is home to the Big 5, many antelope species and incredible bird life. The park is also world-famous...
The Sardine Run

Known as the 'Greatest Shoal on Earth' the annual Sardine Run, which takes place along Natal's South Coast is a sight to behold. Thousands upon thousands of sardines make their way along the coast...
The Midlands

The Midlands region of KwaZulu-Natal has been likened to a typical English countryside, with its rolling hills, green lawns, streams and rustic atmosphere. Picture-postcard scenery and fresh air...
Sodwana Bay

Located along the province's Elephant Coast, Sodwana Bay is characterised by pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and numerous reefs renowned for spectacular scuba diving. This region also happens...
Oribi Gorge

This spectacular gorge was created over millions of years as the Umzimkulwana River scythed its way through the rugged landscape. The Oribi gorge is home to more than 300 bird species and features...
Thukela Gorge

The Thukela Gorge lies below the source of the mighty Tugela River in the Drakensberg. A popular one-day hike takes walkers from the lower reaches of the river along contour paths right to the head...
Pietermaritzburg Botanical Gardens

The Pietermaritzburg Botanical Gardens were established in the early 1870s with the aim of propagating and conserving rare and endangered indigenous plants. Apart from domestic varietals, the gardens...
The Valley of a Thousand Hills

With its seemingly thousands of rolling grassy hills, this verdant valley is home to the Zulu and scoured by the Mngeni River. Way above the river, overlooking the valley below are visitor...