Things To Do
in Gillitts
Gillitts is a suburban area located in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa, nestled between the larger towns of Hillcrest and Kloof. Known for its picturesque scenery and residential charm, Gillitts offers a mix of lush greenery and suburban living, making it a desirable location for families. The area features a variety of amenities, including schools, parks, and shopping centers, contributing to a strong sense of community.
Additionally, Gillitts is well-connected to major roads, providing easy access to the nearby city of Durban and other surrounding regions.
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Kodwa" - But
- "Ngicela" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at the Gillitts Park, enjoying the serene nature trails. Grab a coffee at a local café before heading to your next destination.
Visit the local arts and crafts market to discover handmade goods and support local artisans. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant with a view of the lush landscape.
Wind down with a sunset picnic at a scenic viewpoint in the area. Enjoy stargazing after dark as the sky clears up.
Spend the morning hiking at the nearby Krantz View, taking in the beautiful views and spotting wildlife. Bring your binoculars for birdwatching along the trails.
Have lunch at a local eatery, then head to the nearby botanical gardens to immerse yourself in South Africa's diverse flora. Take time to explore each corner of the gardens.
Return to Gillitts for a casual dinner at a bistro and reflect on the day's adventures. Catch a local music performance or cultural event if one is taking place.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery and landscapes, including proximity to the Krantzkloof Nature Reserve.
- Community-oriented atmosphere with friendly residents.
- Good access to amenities such as schools, shops, and healthcare facilities.
- Relatively low cost of living compared to larger urban areas in South Africa.
- Rich cultural and historical heritage, with various local events and festivals.
- Limited public transportation options, making a car necessary for most residents.
- Possible crime concerns, as with many areas in South Africa.
- Job opportunities may be less abundant compared to larger cities.
- Weather can be humid and hot in summer months.
- The rural setting may not appeal to those seeking a vibrant nightlife or urban lifestyle.
Best Activities in Gillitts
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails of Delville Wood, which offer a variety of hiking routes suitable for all skill levels. Enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings and spot local wildlife.
Visit Gillitts Park for an excellent birdwatching experience. The park is home to a diverse range of bird species, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts.
Take your bike and discover the numerous cycling routes throughout Gillitts and its surrounding areas. These trails cater to both leisurely riders and more seasoned cyclists.
Enjoy a peaceful day out at the Gillitts Nature Reserve, which offers beautiful picnic spots amid lush greenery and serene landscapes.
Explore the vibrant local markets to experience the culture and community of Gillitts. Sample local foods, crafts, and enjoy outdoor entertainment.
Tours
Uncover the best of Gillitts with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Gillitts
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic location with stunning views of the gorge and surrounding nature. Great for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Offers breathtaking views of the Kloof Gorge and diverse wildlife. Ideal for hiking and capturing panoramic landscape photos.
A local park with a tranquil environment, perfect for family photos and scenic shots of the lush greenery.
The school's grounds provide beautiful views of the landscape, especially during the blooming season, ideal for capturing vibrant colors.
This winding road offers spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys, providing excellent backdrops for photography.
Food in Gillitts
Gillitts Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A famous Durban specialty, Bunny Chow consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry. For the best Bunny Chow, visit The Bunny Chow Shop.
Must-Try!
This aromatic rice dish is layered with flavorful spiced meat and can be found at local Indian eateries, particularly at Gillitts Spice Hut.
A popular South African snack, Biltong is dried and cured meat. It’s perfect for on-the-go snacking and can be sourced from local markets like Gillitts Farmers Market.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Gillitts better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Sunday, the Gillitts Farmers Market features fresh produce, artisanal treats, and local street food, making it a perfect spot to sample a variety of local flavors.
While not strictly street food, the Pavilion Food Court offers a range of quick eats from various cultures, perfect for a casual dining experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Gillitts is a diverse area with different cultures and backgrounds. Be aware of and respect the diversity in customs, languages, and traditions among the locals.
Greetings are important in South African culture. A handshake is common, but in some communities, a nod or greeting in the local language may be preferred. Always greet people before starting a conversation.
While many South Africans are warm and friendly, it's essential to respect personal space and physical boundaries, especially during initial meetings with someone you do not know well.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Gillitts with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Gillitts
Ensure a smooth experience
In Gillitts, South Africa, tipping is generally appreciated and is a customary practice in the service industry. It is common to tip around 10-15% of the total bill in restaurants if the service is satisfactory. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare to the nearest whole number or adding a small amount is typical. In hotels, guests may tip bellhops and housekeeping staff for good service, usually between 20-50 Rand.
Payment methods in Gillitts include cash, credit cards, and mobile payments, with cash still being widely accepted in many local businesses. Major credit cards are commonly accepted in larger establishments, while smaller vendors may prefer cash. As digital payment options gain popularity, services such as SnapScan and Zapper are increasingly used for convenience in transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Gillitts.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Gillitts is characterized by mild temperatures and blooming flowers. It is an excellent time for outdoor activities, such as hiking and exploring local parks. The landscape is lush and green, making it visually appealing.
Summer in Gillitts can be warm to hot, with temperatures often reaching the mid-30s°C (mid-90s°F). This season is ideal for water activities and enjoying the beautiful scenery. However, expect some rainfall, especially in January and February.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and a drop in humidity, making it a pleasant time to visit. The changing foliage offers picturesque views, and it is a great time for wine enthusiasts to explore local vineyards. Rainfall is less frequent during these months.
Winter in Gillitts is mild compared to many regions, with temperatures averaging around 10-20°C (50-68°F). This season is relatively dry, making it a good time to explore the area without the crowds. It is also a great time for cultural experiences, such as visiting local art galleries.
Gillitts at Night
Hiking in Gillitts
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful nature reserve offering numerous hiking trails with scenic views, waterfalls, and rich flora and fauna.
A smaller reserve with well-marked trails suitable for hiking, including opportunities for birdwatching and spotting wildlife.
Known primarily for mountain biking, but also offers hiking trails through stunning landscapes with river views.
A hiking area featuring several trails that lead to panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Offers various hiking trails suitable for different skill levels with opportunities to enjoy the dam views and diverse ecosystems.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Gillitts through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Gillitts by plane.
Located approximately 38 kilometers from Gillitts, King Shaka International Airport serves as the primary international airport for the Durban area.
Located about 570 kilometers from Gillitts, OR Tambo International Airport is the busiest airport in Africa and serves as a major international gateway to South Africa.
Situated approximately 515 kilometers from Gillitts, Lanseria International Airport serves both international and domestic flights.
Located about 105 kilometers from Gillitts, Margate Airport is a smaller airport that offers domestic flights but has limited international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Includes various ethnic groups predominantly living in the region, comprising the majority demographic.
Primarily of European descent, including Afrikaners and English-speaking individuals.
A smaller community, primarily consisting of individuals of Indian descent.
A demographic group with mixed racial ancestry, less prominent in Gillitts compared to other areas.
Includes expatriates and communities with diverse backgrounds not fitting into the above categories.
The Soul of Gillitts
Discover the essence of Gillitts through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is a widely played sport in Gillitts, often enjoyed at local clubs and schools, with a strong community following.
Rugby is popular in Gillitts, with many schools and clubs promoting the sport and organizing local competitions.
Soccer has a significant following in Gillitts, with various teams and leagues catering to different age groups and skills.
Netball is a popular sport, especially among women and girls, with several local clubs offering opportunities to play and compete.
Tennis enjoys popularity in Gillitts, with community courts available for practice and local tournaments hosted regularly.
Running and jogging attract many fitness enthusiasts in Gillitts, with organized events and family fun runs often taking place.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gillitts.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local restaurants offer vegetarian options, with establishments like The Culinary Kitchen and The Whippet providing diverse meat-free menus.
Vegan diners will find increasingly more options around Gillitts, particularly at cafes and brunch spots like The Whippet, which offer plant-based dishes.
Look for gluten-free meals at places like The Culinary Kitchen, where dishes can often be modified to meet dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Gillitts with these cultural adventures.
