Things To Do
in Newcastle
Newcastle is a city located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. It is known for its rich history dating back to the early 19th century when it was founded as a frontier town. The city is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including the Drakensberg Mountains and the Buffalo River.
Newcastle is a vibrant and diverse community with a mix of cultures and activities to explore.
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Kodwa" - But
- "Ngicela" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Newcastle Museum to learn about the city's rich history. Stroll through the exhibits and immerse yourself in local culture.
Head to Fort Klapperkop for a scenic view of the town and a little history on the side. Enjoy a packed lunch while admiring the historical landmark.
Dine at a local restaurant offering traditional South African cuisine. Observe the sunset over the surrounding landscapes.
Start your day at the Ncome Zulu Museum, where you can appreciate the natural beauty and wildlife. A guided tour will enhance your experience.
Picnic at the nearby Spioenkop Dam Nature Reserve and enjoy birdwatching. The area's tranquil environment makes for a perfect afternoon retreat.
Return to Newcastle and enjoy a casual dinner at a local grill house. Experience some live music for a fun night out.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural diversity and heritage.
- Affordable cost of living compared to major cities.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Growing economy with opportunities in agriculture and industry.
- Strong community and friendly atmosphere.
- Limited access to high-quality healthcare facilities.
- Higher rates of crime compared to other regions.
- Public transport options are limited.
- Job market may be competitive or lacking in diversity.
- Some areas may face issues with infrastructure and maintenance.
Best Activities in Newcastle
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a thrilling gaming experience at the casino, featuring slots, table games, and entertainment events.
Embark on a scenic horseback ride through the beautiful South African countryside with experienced guides.
Play a round of golf at this picturesque and challenging course, surrounded by stunning views.
Tours
Uncover the best of Newcastle with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Newcastle
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic fort with panoramic views of Newcastle and surrounding areas.
Scenic golf course with beautiful views of the landscape and mountains.
Safari lodge offering stunning views of the African bushveld and wildlife.
Food in Newcastle
Newcastle Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular South African fast food, consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with delicious curry, it's a must-try when in Newcastle. Head to Rajah's on Scott Street for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
A traditional South African sausage made of beef, mixed with either pork or lamb, and a mixture of spices. Visit the Farmer's Market on Allen Street to find top-quality Boerewors.
A spicy vegetable relish that is usually served as a side dish. You can enjoy this flavorful and colorful dish at the Victoria Restaurant located in Victoria Street.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Newcastle better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located on Allen Street, this bustling market offers a wide range of fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food. Don't miss the opportunity to sample traditional Zulu street food while exploring the lively market stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Newcastle, it's important to greet people with a handshake and make eye contact. Show respect by using formal titles such as Mr., Mrs., or Dr. when addressing elders or people in authority.
Respect for elders is a core value in Newcastle. Always greet and acknowledge older people with deference and politeness. It's customary to give up your seat on public transportation to an elderly person.
When visiting religious sites or attending cultural events, it's important to dress modestly and respectfully. Women should cover their shoulders and avoid wearing revealing clothing, while men should dress neatly and conservatively.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Newcastle with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Newcastle
Ensure a smooth experience
In Newcastle, South Africa, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is customary to tip waiters, bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. A tip of around 10% of the total bill is generally considered appropriate.
Payment in Newcastle, South Africa, is mostly done using South African Rand (ZAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments. Mobile payment methods, such as SnapScan and Zapper, are also gaining popularity.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Newcastle.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. It's also the time when flowers bloom, making the landscape picturesque.
Warm and sunny weather, perfect for beach visits and outdoor adventures. This is also the peak tourist season.
Mild temperatures, making it a great time for hiking and exploring the natural surroundings.
Cooler temperatures, but a good time for game viewing and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Newcastle at Night
Hiking in Newcastle
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A thrilling mountain pass offering stunning views and challenging hiking trails, ideal for experienced hikers.
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a range of hiking trails, from easy walks to tough climbs with breathtaking scenery.
Located in Lesotho, this park offers rugged terrain and pristine nature, perfect for adventurous hikers.
Famous for its scenic beauty and rock art, this area offers various hiking routes that cater to different fitness levels.
Known for its dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife, this park provides a range of hikes suitable for all abilities.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Newcastle through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Newcastle by plane.
Located approximately 175 km southeast of Newcastle, this is the primary international airport serving Durban and the surrounding areas.
Situated around 480 km southwest of Newcastle, Johannesburg's main airport is a major international gateway to South Africa.
Located about 450 km southwest of Newcastle, it serves as a secondary airport for the Johannesburg area, popular for regional flights.
Approximately 800 km south of Newcastle, this airport serves Port Elizabeth and the surrounding coastal regions.
Located about 740 km west of Newcastle, it primarily serves the city of Kimberley and surrounding areas, with limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Newcastle, comprising various ethnic backgrounds.
A significant minority group in Newcastle, primarily of European descent.
A smaller demographic group, primarily descended from Indian laborers who settled in the region.
A mixed-race population that forms part of the demographic makeup.
This includes individuals from various backgrounds and nationalities who reside in Newcastle.
The Soul of Newcastle
Discover the essence of Newcastle through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is one of the most popular sports in Newcastle, with a strong local tradition and several clubs participating in regional competitions.
Soccer has a significant following in Newcastle, with many local leagues and teams representing the community.
Cricket is a favored sport in Newcastle, with numerous cricket clubs and schools promoting the game among youth.
Netball is widely played, especially among women and girls, with various local teams and competitions.
Athletics enjoys popularity in Newcastle, with many schools and clubs encouraging participation in track and field events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Newcastle.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional South African cuisine often features meat-based dishes, many restaurants and cafes in Newcastle offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. Look out for establishments like Vasco's Restaurant and discuss your preferences with the friendly staff.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable options at a number of eateries in Newcastle, including the Vulintaba Country Hotel & Spa, where the menu caters to individuals with dietary restrictions.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Newcastle with these cultural adventures.
