The Midlands is known as a place with many rivers and waterfalls. One such river is the Umgeni River that follows the course of gorges and steep crags. Located in the Umgeni River is the Howick Falls, reaching a height of 95 metres. Visitors can choose from three different trails, each leading to a different vantage point from where the waterfall can be viewed. Visiting this site is the perfect half-day trip, affording enough time to visit the waterfall, walk along one of the trails and browse some of the shops in Howick.

The Drakensberg Mountain Range, existing of a combination of rugged peaks with lush valleys, is one of South Africa’s most remarkable natural wonders. This awe-inspiring mountain range reaches an impressive elevation of 3 482 metres above sea level, making it the highest in the country. Drakensberg translates to “dragon mountains” or “mountains of the dragons” and it is not difficult to see why. The Drakensberg has several peaks that are popular spots to hike and photograph. Embark on scenic hikes, discover tranquil rock pools, waterfalls, mountain streams and San rock art, or simply relax at the foothill of the mountain where you can breathe in the fresh mountain air and soak up the KZN sun. Not up for the drive? You can simply view ‘The Giant’ from the Nottingham Road turnoff.

Piggly Wiggly is a must-visit one-stop hub for food, activities and gifts the whole family will enjoy. In the centre of the Highgate Wine Estate, enjoy wine tours and tastings in our beautiful family wine cellar. Indulge in breakfasts, light meals, lunches, pizzas, refreshments, and, of course, a variety of coffees and teas at the coffee shop.

Contact: +27 (0)33 234 2911

Candle dipping and the miniature steam train ride around Piggly Wiggly will keep the kids busy on weekends. The active guests can take part in the 5 km Parkrun.

Visit Meander Fine Wines for 700 wines from the Cape, Natal and around the world.

The Pizza Place offers freshly made country pizza. The Greenery will give you your healthy juice fix along with bagels and salads. Stock up on meat from The Pantry and visit chocoholics can visit Chocolate Heaven for the chocolate dipping experience… or just to buy some delicious chocolates.

AfriCamps guests can enjoy a complimentary glass of wine at Highgate Wine Estate, or order wines from Meander Fine Wines and it will be delivered straight to the farm!

Contact: Highgate Wine Estate on +27 (0)33 234 2002

Midmar Dam is a popular recreational destination only 7 km from Howick. This tranquil setting, which also hosts the annual Midmar Mile, is perfect for sporting activities like water sports, cycling, walking, game viewing, angling, or relaxing at one of the many picnic sites.

AfriCamps guests receive 15% off at Karkloof Canopy Tour until 30 November 2026. Simply use the promo code AFRICAMPS15 when you book!

The Karkloof Canopy Tour is in a pristine valley of the Karkloof Forest Reserve that is covered with mist belt forest, grasslands, and wetlands. Explore this extraordinary area from above the forest canopy. Highly recommended for guests with a taste for adventure! The tour consists of 12 platforms and 10 zip-line slides, the longest of which is 200 metres. The tour is approximately two hours long and is suited for people ages six and up. Tours run at specific time slots and booking is essential.

Contact: +27 (0)76 241 2888

Experience indigenous South African culture with the Zulu Mpophomeni Tourism Experience (ZMTE). ZMTE is an award-winning non-profit organisation that provides a fascinating window into the traditional Zulu hospitality and vibrant township life of the Mpophomeni community.

Contact: +27 (0)82 228 2044

The Nelson Mandela Capture Site is situated on the R103 just outside of Howick. Here, a unique sculpture by artist Marco Cianfanelli can be found. The sculpture consists of 50 steel column constructions that come into alignment to form a portrait of Nelson Mandela. The columns are said to symbolise Mandela’s capture on this very site and imprisonment on Robben Island.

Explore the surrounding area via one of several mountain biking and walking trails that start at the Nelson Mandela Capture Site and link to other existing routes in the area.

Contact: Nelson Mandela Capture Site +27 (0)72 351 0967

Just down the road is Ardmore Ceramics, a unique gallery showcasing vibrant and detailed ceramics, hand-painted by local artists.

Contact: +27 (0)33 940 0034

A day spent pampered is a day well spent! Visit the Indigo Fields African Bush Spa and spend your day relaxing as you enjoy treatments against the backdrop of the scenic Midlands landscape.

Contact: +27 (0)83 789 9872

Explore the lush landscape of the Midlands on horseback with Midlands Meander Horse Trails. An experienced guide will accompany you along a scenic horse trail that winds through mountains, hills, dams, and pine trees in Lidgetton. Options include outrides, pony rides and even lessons.

Contact: +27 (0)82 401 4361

Visit the Nottingham Road Brewery to sample a range of naturally brewed ales and lagers.

Contact: +27 (0)83 782 8959

With two world-class golf courses around the corner, make a golfing glamping tour of it! Take a swing at Gowrie Farm, only 11 km away. This course is known as one of the top 30 most fun courses in the country, and the third-best short course in the world outside of America.

Bosch Hoek is a beautiful country course with loads of charm and becomes a beautiful display of colour in Autumn. The cosy clubhouse with its fireplace is particularly inviting after a round of golf during winter.

Contact: Gowrie Farm on +27 (0)33 266 6348 | Bosch Hoek on +27 (0)33 234 4232

Pick one of five Midlands Meander routes and experience the best food, drinks, and arts and crafts of each section. Visit the Midlands Meander website to get your map.

Located just 15 minutes from AfriCamps at Gowan Valley, guests enjoy free racket hire when booking a game of padel at Notties Padel. Discover one of the world’s fastest-growing sports on three world-class covered courts, book easily through the Playtomic app, and take advantage of staying active while on a glamping getaway.

Dive into the heart-pounding world of high-speed thrills and adrenaline-fueled adventure at Epic Karting! Their state-of-the-art facilities are not just a go-karting track; it’s a haven for speed enthusiasts, adrenaline junkies, and anyone seeking an epic racing experience.

Discover the garden at Brahman Hills Gardens - walk through a world-record 22-hectare labyrinth designed to calm your mind and awaken your senses. Explore quiet meditation paths, the beautiful Orchid House, and creative African spaces. Take in the views from the platform, relax at the contemplation deck, and follow the calming water walkways - each area created to help you unwind and feel inspired.

Enjoy a spa experience at the following hotels:
1) Granny Mouse
2) Brahman Hills Spa
3) Brookdale Health Hydro
4) Fordoun
5) Indigo Fields