KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa? If you're planning to go to KwaZulu-Natal, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Based on the climate and weather in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, the best time to go is May. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in KwaZulu-Natal, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa by month

January

January for KwaZulu-Natal is warm. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in KwaZulu-Natal may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to get the right type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

If you are traveling to KwaZulu-Natal in February, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 60s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in KwaZulu-Natal may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

March in this region is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in KwaZulu-Natal may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

April

April for KwaZulu-Natal is mild. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in KwaZulu-Natal may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to get the right type. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

May

May dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost occasionally. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in KwaZulu-Natal may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

June

June here dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in KwaZulu-Natal may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

July in this region dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in KwaZulu-Natal may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to pick the right type. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

August

If you go to KwaZulu-Natal in August, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain occasionally. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (mid 10s C). There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in KwaZulu-Natal may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you choose the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

September

September here is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in KwaZulu-Natal may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to get the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

October

If you are traveling to KwaZulu-Natal in October, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in KwaZulu-Natal may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you get the correct kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

November

If you are traveling to KwaZulu-Natal in November, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in KwaZulu-Natal may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to choose the right type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

December

Traveling to KwaZulu-Natal in December, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 60s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in KwaZulu-Natal may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to find the right type. Many adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

What to do in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

KwaZulu-Natal is a coastal province in South Africa, known for its diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife. It is a popular tourist destination that offers something for everyone, from beaches, mountains, and game reserves to historical sites and cultural experiences. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in KwaZulu-Natal:

1. Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a stunning mountain range that offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and rock art by the San people. It is home to rare plants, birds, and animals, including the endangered Cape vulture.

2. Durban Beachfront: Durban is the largest city in KwaZulu-Natal and boasts miles of golden beaches, a promenade, and a waterpark. It is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.

3. iSimangaliso Wetland Park: This protected area is a haven for wildlife and boasts diverse habitats, from wetlands and beaches to forests and lakes. It is home to large populations of crocodiles, hippos, and birds, and offers activities like bird watching, game viewing, and boat tours.

4. Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park: This game reserve is one of the oldest and most renowned in Africa and offers a chance to see the Big Five (lions, elephants, buffalos, rhinos, and leopards). It also has cultural significance as it was once the hunting grounds of the Zulu kings.

5. Drakensberg Canopy Tour: This thrilling adventure takes visitors on a zipline tour of the forest canopy, providing breathtaking views and an adrenaline rush.

6. The Nelson Mandela Capture Site: This historic site commemorates the arrest of the father of the nation, Nelson Mandela, in 1962. The sculpture made of steel stands 6.5m tall and captures the iconic image of Mandela being arrested on the spot where it took place.

7. Moses Mabhida Stadium: This modern stadium was built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup and now hosts events and tours. Visitors can take a cable car to the top to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

8. Midlands Meander: This scenic route takes visitors through charming villages, lush countryside, and craft markets. It is an excellent opportunity to buy handmade crafts, taste local cuisine and catch a glimpse of rural life.

9. Tala Private Game Reserve: This hidden gem offers a unique game viewing experience and is known for its birdlife, particularly raptors. Visitors can enjoy game Drives, horseback riding, and fishing.

10. Shakaland: This cultural village offers a glimpse into the traditional Zulu way of life, with demonstrations of dancing, music, and crafts. Visitors can also learn how to make traditional Zulu beer and taste the cuisine.

In conclusion, KwaZulu-Natal is a destination that offers an unforgettable experience, a potpourri of habitats, and heritage sites to explore, with stunning scenic beauty and an array of adventure activities to choose from, added with its unique cultural experiences that leave an inclusive and lasting memory to its visitors.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Pacentro, Italy, Alameda, California, United States of America, Bay of Islands, New Zealand, Lubuskie, Poland, Lexington, North Carolina, United States of America, Bekasi, Indonesia, Thekkady, India, Caucasian Biosphere Reserve, Russia, Des Plaines, Illinois, United States of America, Hawick, Scotland, United Kingdom, and McAllen, Texas, United States of America.