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

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Ready to pack for KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa? If you're planning to go to KwaZulu-Natal, below is 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

If you go to KwaZulu-Natal in January, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 60s F (low 20s 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.

  • 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 constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you find the necessary type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

February

February is warm. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: 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.

  • 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 surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

March in KwaZulu-Natal 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you get the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

April

If you go to KwaZulu-Natal in April, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain a bit less than 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.

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

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

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

May

May in this region dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost sometimes. 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 little protection, 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 repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you 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

  • 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 choose the correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

June

If you are traveling to KwaZulu-Natal in June, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

July

July in KwaZulu-Natal 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.

  • 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • 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 large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

August

August for KwaZulu-Natal is chilly. Temperatures average in the 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost once in a while. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be careful to choose the right kind. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

September

Traveling to KwaZulu-Natal in September, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice 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. Take care to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

October

Traveling to KwaZulu-Natal in October, you will notice that it is mild. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to pick the correct kind. Many adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

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.

  • 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 constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to find the necessary kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • 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

December

December for KwaZulu-Natal is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 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.

  • 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

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.

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