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This mighty watercourse links the Drakensberg mountains with the ocean
Thukela River, KwaZulu-Natal
Hiking along the mighty Thukela River.
© Thukela River
Did you know?
The Thukela River flows for more than 500km from the Drakensberg to the Indian Ocean.
The Thukela River, KwaZulu-Natal's largest watercourse, plunges 947 metres over the Thukela Falls before winding its way from the mighty Drakensberg mountains down to the Indian Ocean.
At its source the Thukela has carved out a magnificent gorge that can be viewed both from below by hiking up the Thukela River valley and from above by negotiating a chain ladder at the head of the gorge.
In the 1800s the Thukela River formed a natural border between the Zulu Kingdom to the northeast and the Colony of Natal to the south.
British forces were responsible for the construction of Fort Pearson and Fort Tenedos about 10 kilometres from the river mouth in 1879. The two forts remain as a testament to a more turbulent past and provide an interesting historical detour.
As the Thukela River winds its way through the small rural towns of Colenso and Bergville, a number of monuments and memorials mark the sites of bloody battles fought between colonial forces and resident farmers. At Kranskop, on the edge the river valley, you'll encounter the remains of Fort Buckingham, a remnant of the Anglo-Zulu War.
The dark military memories that are so much part of the largest river in KwaZulu-Natal are more than offset by the peace and tranquillity to be found along its upper reaches.
On its southern bank lies the Harold Johnson Nature Reserve, where more than 200 bird species have been recorded and game viewing is at its best. Take advantage of a number of hiking trails that take you into the territory of zebras, mongooses, monkeys and a variety of antelope roaming freely in their natural habitat.
The Thukela Game Reserve showcases wildlife including elephant, wildebeest, warthog, hyena and buck species. Birders will delight in the presence of ground hornbills and ostrich.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
KwaZulu-Natal Tourism
Phone: +27 (0)31 366 7500
Email: kznta@iafrica.com
How to get here
From Johannesburg take the the N3 towards Durban and turn left after Van Reenen's Pass before the Tugela Tollgate onto the R103 leading to Ladysmith. This will take you to Colenso. The distance from Johannesburg is approximately 400 kilometres.
Around the area
Visit Thanelani handicraft centre, Bergville; the Royal Natal National Park for game viewing; Rangeworthy Military Cemetery in Bergville; Cannibal Cavern; Kaalvoet Vrou (Barefoot woman); Mgoduyanuka settlement; Oliviershoek Laager; Retief's Pass and the Upper Thukela Blockhouse Near the John Ross bridge, 8 km from the mouth, is the site of the historic Zulu village Ndondakusuka.
Tours to do
Horse rides, 4x4 routes, guided walks, game-viewing, birding and fishing tours are offered at parks and game reserves in the vicinity of the lower Thukela.
Length of stay
There is so much to be seen along the length of the river that it would be best to spend a day or two in the region of its source and another day at one of the battlefield regions to absorb both natural and historical elements.
Where to stay
A variety of accommodation – B&Bs and cottages to rustic campsites – may be found at Bergville, Colenso, the Royal Natal National Park and Zingela Bushcamp.
What to eat
Small towns along the route have quaint local eateries as well as franchised outlets.
What's happening
Bergville Ladysmith Marathon and Bergville Cycle Race (April); Bergville-Winterton Marathon (December).
Best buys
Traditional beadwork, baskets and wood carvings are on sale at Thandalani handicraft centre between the Royal Natal National Park and Bergville.