PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

09 February 2026

 

Stakeholders Experience Fourth Leg of the Umzumbe River Trail, Showcasing KZN South Coast Hinterland Tourism

 

South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) recently hosted key tourism and government stakeholders on an experiential visit to the fourth leg of the Umzumbe River Trail, highlighting the potential of hinterland tourism experiences on the KZN South Coast. The engagement formed part of ongoing efforts to showcase authentic rural tourism products while strengthening collaboration among partners involved in destination development.

 

The hosted experience covered approximately 10km along the scenic Umzumbe River, giving participants a first-hand look at the trail’s natural beauty, community involvement and cultural storytelling opportunities. Stakeholders who participated in the adventure included representatives from KZN EDTEA, Msinsi Holdings, Umzumbe Municipality, SA Red Cross Society-Port Shepstone, NPS Adventures and GCIS.

 

“Hiking continues to grow in popularity across South Africa, with more than 1 000 registered trails offering immersive outdoor experiences,” said SCTIE CEO, Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya. “Experiences such as the Umzumbe River Trail, demonstrate the KZN South Coast’s ability to offer visitors meaningful hinterland excursions that combine nature, culture and community engagement, while contributing to sustainable rural tourism development.”

 

The full Umzumbe River Trail spans approximately 71km and offers multi-day hiking and biking options guided by knowledgeable local Tourist guides.  Along the route, guests learn about the area’s geology, flora and fauna, as well as traditional medicinal plant knowledge rooted in Zulu heritage.

The trail traverses landscapes inhabited by six Zulu clans the (e)Nhlangwini, (e)Mabheleni, KwaCele, KwaNdelu, KwaQwabe and KwaMadlala, creating opportunities for authentic cultural encounters. Visitors can explore local points of interest and refreshment stops while experiencing traditional homestays that provide insight into community life and customs.

 

Drumming, music, dance, and storytelling form part of the cultural immersion, giving visitors a deeper understanding of local history dating back to the era of iNkosi uShaka. The stakeholder visit highlighted the importance of collaborative partnerships in promoting inclusive tourism growth and unlocking the economic potential of the KZN South Coast’s hinterland offerings.

 

Further investment potential exists in the establishment of a lodge at the starting point of the trail alongside the Umhlabatshane Dam – which has been supported by a feasibility report issued by Umzumbe Municipality Town Planning – and the development of recreational activities around the dam for overnight guests, day visitors, corporate team building, and school excursions.

 

Follow the hashtags

 

Unlock More on the KZN South Coast!

 

The KZN South Coast is a premier beach destination offering a diverse array of tourism experiences. With the most Blue Flag beaches and tidal pools in the province, it’s perfect for seaside relaxation, while world-class dive sites at Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks provide thrilling marine adventures alongside deep-sea fishing. The region is a golfer’s paradise, featuring 11 top-quality courses and welcoming clubhouses.

 

Unlock adventure on the KZN South Coast with hiking, mountain biking, 4×4 trails, and extreme sports like ziplining and gorge swinging in the scenic hinterland. Nature lovers can explore vast reserves and the Wellness Way Route, while cultural and heritage attractions include township tours, the Mission Tourism Route, and many hiking excursions.

 

Agri-tourism flourishes with farm visits and rural outings, and motorsport enthusiasts can head to Dezzi Raceway for high-octane action. The area also supports business tourism and event hosting with great MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) facilities in a breathtaking coastal setting.

 

Get in Touch!

 

Unlock adventure on the KZN South Coast! Unlock more by downloading the Explore KZN South Coast app, visiting the KZN South Coast website www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za; following South Coast Tourism on Facebook, South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube, @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram, and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. Watch why the KZN South Coast is a top tourism destination here.

 

Follow the hashtags #KZNSouthCoast #MeetOnTheSouthCoast #ValentinesGetaway #RomanticCoast

Umzumbe River Trail Hiking

The starting point of the trail, Umhlabatshane Dam

Crafters – Umzumbe River Trail

The Viewing Deck – Umzumbe River Trail

Umzumbe River Trail Directional Sign

About KZN South Coast

Known as the ‘Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom, the KZN South Coast stretches 120 kilometres from Scottburgh to Port Edward and inland to Harding. Here, the spirit of adventure can be discovered among the many cultural experiences, as well as the 35 nature trails and 58 beaches, ideal for activities like river rafting, abseiling, suspension bridges, paintball, surfing, SUP, canoeing, beach horse rides, shark cage diving and free diving. Nicknamed ‘The Golf Coast’, there are 11 golf courses on the KZN South Coast ranging in difficulty, with endless hiking, mountain biking and 4×4 trails for more rugged excursions. Promoting sustainability, the KZN South Coast has a growing agri-tourism sector that offers world-class produce and hosts tours and excursions. The region boasts several permanently managed Blue Flag beaches and is home to some of the world’s top diving sites, Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks. The originality continues with the annual Sardine Run, coined the #GreatestShoalonEarth, which is the largest biomass migration on earth and a marvel to witness. The region’s many nature reserves are inhabited by indigenous birds and wildlife, and it holds the title of ‘smallest desert on earth’, The Red Desert in Port Edward. The KZN South Coast is a fast-emerging MICE destination which has played host to several high-profile events including The Bike Fest, The Conservation Symposium, The Ocean Festival, Uvukile Gospel Festival, Ugu Jazz, Ugu International Film Festival, and the South Coast Fever MTB & Trail Run Series.

 

For more information please contact:
Vanessa Gounden
Email: vanessa@sctie.co.za