The Valley of a Thousand Hills is the spectacular ridge-and-valley landscape immediately west of Durban, where the Umgeni River carves through deep grass-covered hills on its way to the sea. The valley is Zulu heartland and the easiest day trip from the city for a taste of rural KwaZulu-Natal.
A scenic drive — the Old Main Road through Hillcrest and Botha's Hill — runs along the valley rim with viewpoints, craft stalls and a few good lunch stops. From the village of PheZulu visitors can see a working Zulu homestead and traditional dance performances. About 45 minutes from central Durban.