South Africa's lush subtropical east coast — Zulu heritage, Big Five game reserves, battlefield history, and the iSimangaliso wetlands.
April to September for game viewing (dry season). October to March for beach weather and sea turtle nesting. Year-round subtropical climate.
More affordable than Greater Kruger. Game reserve lodges from $100-500/night. Self-drive accommodation from $40-100/night. Cultural tours $30-80 per person.
King Shaka International Airport in Durban serves the region. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi is 3 hours north of Durban. The Drakensberg mountains are 3 hours west.