Things To Do
in Howick
Howick is a small town located in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. It is known for its picturesque landscapes and tranquil surroundings, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. The town is home to the Howick Falls, a stunning waterfall that attracts visitors from all over.
Howick also has a rich history, with landmarks such as the Nelson Mandela Capture Site commemorating the arrest of the anti-apartheid leader in 1962.
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Kodwa" - But
- "Ngicela" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3.50
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Howick Falls and enjoy the scenic views. Take a short hike around the area for some fresh air.
Have lunch at a local café and try some traditional South African dishes. Afterward, visit the nearby Nelson Mandela Capture Site for a bit of history.
Wind down with dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy the local cuisine while reflecting on your day.
Begin your morning with a stroll along the Karkloof Nature Reserve trails. Revel in the diverse flora and fauna of the area.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in nature. Spend your afternoon birdwatching or exploring more trails.
Return to Howick and visit a local pub for some evening entertainment. Sample some local craft beers and unwind.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery and access to outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching.
- A close-knit community with a friendly atmosphere.
- Proximity to the city of Pietermaritzburg for additional amenities and services.
- Good local schools and educational facilities.
- Rich history and cultural heritage, including historical sites.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Possible issues with public transport and accessibility.
- Higher crime rates compared to some urban areas.
- Dependence on nearby larger cities for broader amenities and entertainment.
- Potential for extreme weather conditions, including heavy rains and occasional flooding.
Best Activities in Howick
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails and waterfalls in the Karkloof Nature Reserve.
Enjoy challenging mountain biking trails with beautiful views in the Umngeni Valley Nature Reserve.
Experience an exhilarating zipline adventure through the lush Karkloof forest canopy.
Spot a variety of bird species while enjoying the tranquil surroundings at Midmar Dam.
Tours
Uncover the best of Howick with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Howick
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning waterfall located in the town of Howick, offering picturesque views and photo opportunities.
A popular spot for capturing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the town of Howick and the picturesque Midlands.
Food in Howick
Howick Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular street food dish consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with flavorful curry, originating from the Indian community in South Africa. Must-try at The Corner Post in Howick.
Must-Try!
A traditional South African dried and cured meat, usually made from beef or game meats. It can be found at local markets and specialty shops such as Piggly Wiggly Country Village.
A spicy vegetable relish that is a staple in South African cuisine, often served as a side dish. Best sampled at The Farmer's Daughter Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Howick better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An open-air market offering a diverse range of street food from various cultures, including samosas, vetkoek, and bunny chow. Perfect for trying a variety of local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Howick, South Africa, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, as this may be seen as intrusive.
Greeting people with a handshake or a nod is common in Howick. It is important to greet others respectfully when meeting them for the first time or entering a room.
Being mindful of the language and gestures used is crucial in Howick, South Africa. It is respectful to avoid using offensive language or making inappropriate gestures.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Howick with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Howick
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common in Howick, South Africa, particularly in restaurants, bars, and for tour guides. It is customary to tip around 10-15% of the total bill if the service was satisfactory.
In Howick, South Africa, cash is widely used for smaller transactions, while credit and debit cards are accepted in most establishments for larger purchases. Mobile payment solutions are also becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Howick.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Howick is during the summer, when the weather is warm and the days are long. This is the peak tourist season, and you can expect sunny days, occasional afternoon thunderstorms, and lush green landscapes.
Autumn brings milder temperatures and fewer crowds. The landscapes transform into stunning shades of red, orange, and yellow as the leaves change, making it a beautiful time to visit Howick.
Winter in Howick is cool and dry, with chilly nights and mild days. This is a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing, and it's also the best time for viewing wildlife as they congregate around water sources.
Spring is a lovely time to visit Howick, with temperatures warming up and the countryside bursting into bloom. The landscapes are vibrant and colorful, and it's a great time for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Howick at Night
Hiking in Howick
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail that leads to the iconic Howick Falls, featuring beautiful views and rich biodiversity.
Known for its diverse flora and fauna, this reserve offers numerous hiking trails that cater to different skill levels.
A collection of trails along the scenic Midlands Meander route, perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking to explore local landscapes.
A reserve that features a range of hiking trails through grasslands and forests, with views of the Umgeni River.
Offers a variety of trails for hikers, with opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Howick through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Howick by plane.
Located approximately 35 km from Howick, this is the main airport serving Durban and the surrounding region.
Situated about 10 km from Howick, this airport serves domestic flights and is closer to Howick.
Formerly the main airport serving Durban, it has been replaced by King Shaka International Airport but is often referenced in travel discussions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Howick, encompassing various ethnicities and cultures.
This group includes individuals of European descent, with historical ties to the country.
A smaller demographic group primarily consisting of descendants from Indian traders and laborers.
Individuals of mixed race descent, with cultural influences from both African and European backgrounds.
Includes various other ethnicities not classified in the primary groups listed.
The Soul of Howick
Discover the essence of Howick through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a highly popular sport in Howick, with local clubs and schools actively participating in regional competitions.
Cricket has a strong following in Howick, with community leagues and youth programs promoting the sport across various age groups.
Soccer enjoys widespread popularity in Howick, featuring numerous teams and a vibrant atmosphere during matches.
Netball is a favored sport among women and girls in Howick, with competitive leagues and school teams.
Athletics is supported in Howick with events and competitions, promoting running, jumping, and throwing activities in schools and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Howick.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Howick offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, with a focus on fresh produce and creative flavor combinations. The Farmer's Daughter and Yellowwood Café are excellent choices for plant-based dining.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy a variety of gluten-free meals at establishments like Yellowwood Café, which prioritizes using gluten-free ingredients in their dishes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Howick with these cultural adventures.
