Dam wall and gorge

The 70-metre-high wall of Jozini Dam spans the Pongola River gorge near Jozini. This puts a clearly identifiable structure in direct relation to a landscape feature. A boat trip offers the chance to explore the coves and cliffs of Pongolapoort Gorge. For planning purposes, these are two different perspectives on the area: the dam wall as a structure and the gorge as a destination on the water.

About Jozini Dam

Near Jozini, Jozini Dam, formerly called Pongolapoort Dam, was completed in 1974. At a water level of 100 percent, it covers an area of 17,000 hectares. This area figure applies specifically at the stated water level; that condition is part of the figure. The two measurements answer different questions: 70 metres describes the height of the dam wall, while 17,000 hectares is the area at a water level of 100 percent. Both the type of measurement and the water-level condition are therefore important for context.

Hikes and excursions

Hikes to Ghost Mountain and in Hlathikhulu Forest are available near Jozini. The Fig Forest Walk is also nearby, in Mkhuze Game Reserve; the trail crosses a suspension bridge. On the Fig Forest Walk, you can look for the rare Pel's fishing owl. This is an opportunity to search for it, not a guaranteed sighting. The activities have different specific points of interest: two hiking locations and a named walk with a bridge and the possibility of seeing a particular bird. This lets you weigh up whether to choose one of the hikes or focus on the bridge and looking for the owl.

When choosing between activities, the distinction between land and water is especially clear: Ghost Mountain, Hlathikhulu Forest and the Fig Forest Walk are hiking options nearby. A boat trip, by contrast, focuses on the coves and cliffs of the gorge. The Fig Forest Walk also stands apart because of its suspension bridge and the possibility of looking for the owl. This makes it possible to choose an outing based on the kind of experience you want.

Getting there and getting oriented

Jozini is accessible by road via the N2 Freeway; check current road conditions before setting out. It is listed as 500 km east of Johannesburg and 300 km north of Durban. These distances help give you a general idea of Jozini's location; for the actual journey, take your chosen route into account. Charter flights to Mkuze Airport are listed as an alternative for air travellers. If you are considering this option, check availability in advance.

Find a hotel for your stay

If you are looking for a hotel in Jozini, first consider which interests you want your stay to revolve around. Choosing between hikes, the possibility of looking for the owl on the Fig Forest Walk and a boat trip affects the character of your days.

Discover more destinations: Kokstad, Himeville, Richard's Bay, Cathkin Park, Kwagingindlovu, Empangeni, Vryheid, Port Edward.

For the regional travel overview: Kwazulu-Natal.