The stories behind the big days out.
History, facts and practical tips for the events and experiences our guests come for, each with the nights to book around it.
Amanzimtoti sits half an hour south of Durban, close enough for the Comrades finish, the Durban July and conferences at the ICC, and right on the South Coast for fishing, diving and quiet beach days. These guides are written for visitors: what happens, why it matters, how far it is from the chalets and when to book. Every fact is checked against the organisers or a published source, and each guide lists its sources.
The big events
The ultimate human race
The Comrades Marathon, from 1921 to the 100th.
The Comrades Marathon from 1921 to the 100th race on 13 June 2027: the route, the hills, the medals, and a beach chalet half an hour from the finish.
Africa's greatest horse race
The Durban July, run every year since 1897.
South Africa's biggest race day at Greyville since 1897: the history, the 2,200 m race, the fashion, and a beach chalet 30 minutes away.
Africa's tourism trade show
Africa's Travel Indaba, every May at the Durban ICC.
Africa's Travel Indaba at the Durban ICC each May: what it is, who goes, the 2027 dates, and a self-catering base 28 km from the ICC.
Experiences
Africa's oldest botanic garden
Durban Botanic Gardens, growing since 1849.
Africa's oldest surviving botanic garden, founded in 1849: Wood's cycad, the orchid house, the history, and an easy day out from Amanzimtoti.
Offshore from Umkomaas
Deep-sea fishing, the moon and the tides.
Deep-sea fishing off the KZN South Coast: what you can catch, how the moon and tides affect fishing, this year's moon phases, and charters near Umkomaas.