KwaNzimakwe Multi-Trail Park on KZN South Coast a treat for nature lovers, 4×4, off-road and hiking fans

The long-awaited KwaNzimakwe Multi-Trail Park will be launched on Sunday, 3 November, giving nature-lovers and outdoor enthusiasts the chance to experience this unique Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT) route development project.

Commenting on the initiative, CEO of USCT, Phelisa Mangcu, said: “Through the KwaNzimakwe Multi-Trail Park we are looking to create exposure of the area as a tourist attraction and increase visitor numbers, particularly those looking for outdoor adventure. Our role, as USCT, is to expand the geographical footprint of tourism, opening up the entire South Coast to the benefits of the resultant economic instream. We believe that the KwaNzimakwe Multi-Trail Park will work to achieve this, offering the tourists a unique experience while also creating jobs for the local community.”

The launch is the first step in developing this area into a major drawcard for locals and visitors seeking outdoor activities in a scenic area that includes panoramic views of the coastline and hinterland, lush coastal forests, river crossings and diverse 4×4 terrain. The event will be hosted by the Mayor of Ray Nkonyeni Municipality (RNM) Cynthia Mqwebu.

Visitors attending the launch are encouraged to bring their 4×4 vehicles and experience the 4×4 obstacle and demo course, organised by local motor dealers, Halfway Toyota. This includes the option of traversing the specially-designed 4-hour trail with a stopover for a braai and refreshments. Also on the programme is the 10-kilometre trail run hosted by the South Coast Striders, as well as the fun 4-kilometre family trail hike (dogs welcome!) which is being hosted by the South Coast Hospice. There will be a special 22km off-road motorcycle trail in support of Stuart Gregory’s ‘Nuts4Dakar’ campaign. Food and other refreshments will be provided by the local community.

USCT established the KwaNzimakwe Multi-Trail Park to encourage tourism in the hinterland areas, with local communities given a platform to sell products and refreshments. Inkosi B.S. Nzimakwe, under whose jurisdiction the park landfalls, said: “I would like to place on record how happy the community was to work towards a multi-trail centre in KwaNzimakwe. After we were involved in the Margate Enduro, we experienced how we can work hand-in-hand with tourism and event organisers to host events in our area. We warmly welcome this opportunity and as a community would gladly participate in the upcoming events in the multi-trail park on a regular basis.”

The KwaNzimakwe Multi Trail Park will be developed in stages, with plans in place for a clubhouse, restaurant, Tourism Information Centre, traders’ market and administrative offices. For outdoor enthusiasts, there will be a 4×4 trail; walking, running and nature trails; Enduro, motorbike, motocross and mountain bike closed circuit tracks, as well as cultural activities.