From sandy beaches to wildlife-rich nature reserves, Port Shepstone offers a wide range of South African experiences. The town is set at the mouth of the Umzimkhulu River and is a great base to explore KwaZulu-Natal. Relax on the golden-sand beach or head inland to explore the action-packed Oribi Gorge.
Things to do in Port Shepstone
Swim, sunbathe and learn to surf on Port Shepstone Beach. The beach is beautiful and features a strip of honey-coloured sand. Splash in the waves or swim in the rock pool filled with seawater. Boat tours take you out to deeper water and offer a chance to spot dolphins and whales.
Gear up for outdoor adventures in the Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve. Local tour operators offer exhilarating activities like rappelling down 110-metre-tall Lehr’s Falls and quad biking along mud-splattered trails. Cross the narrow suspension bridge for dizzying views over the gorge.
Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Umzimkhulu River. Boats head upstream and showcase the lush riparian ecosystem. Look for African rock pythons coiled in the tree branches and wild bush pigs foraging along the riverbank. Rent a kayak if you’d rather explore the river at your own pace.
Come face-to-face with iconic African animals in the Lake Eland Game Reserve. The 2,500-hectare park protects a patchwork of grassland, wetland and forest. Guided safaris take you deep into the park and get you up close with giraffes, zebras and impalas. Head north to Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park if seeing rhinos, lions and elephants is on your bucket list.
Getting around Port Shepstone
Parts of Port Shepstone are pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Taxis are a fast and affordable way to cover longer distances. Rental cars are a good way to explore surrounding sights and attractions at your own pace. Port Shepstone is in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, a 1.5-hour drive from Durban. King Shaka International Airport is a two-hour drive away.