Mtunzini, “Place in the Shade”, is a premier eco and adventure tourism destination. The town’s policy of protecting its natural heritage paid off when it was declared a Conservancy in November 1995. It was originally the home of Zululand’s famous “White Chief”, John Dunn, diplomatic advisor to King Cetshwayo after the Zulu Civil War of 1856. He lived according to Zulu customs and took, in addition to his British-born spouse, 49 more brides.
Adventure And Sport
Hiking: A network of trails criss-cross the area. They take visitors through the swamp and dune coastal forests, estuarine mud flats, mangroves and open grasslands.
Fauna And Flora
Bird Life: Many vibrantly coloured species of birds have made their home in the natural vegetation of the area.
Umlalazi Game Reserve: Umlalazi Game Reserve contains many different species of plants, animals and birds and, as an added bonus, has 900 ha of pristine beach environment.
History And Architecture
John Dunn’s Pool: Because there were so many crocodiles and hippo in the vicinity at the time, a pool was dug to allow John Dunn’s many wives to be able to swim in safety. Only the remains of the pool can still be seen.
Raffia Palm Monument: The Raffia Palm Monument was set up near a grove of raffia palms.
