We all know the biggest and most popular places in KZN, but did you know that the hidden places are even greater gems? These over looked and often taken for granted places are what makes KZN underrated.

• Moyo at uShaka Marine World

Every one associates uShaka with wild, non stop fun. It can be relaxing too.

Moyo's is an intimate cocktail bar, which offers an array of exotic and traditional cocktails. The bubbly atmosphere explodes at 17h00 until 18h00 daily as guests can enjoy the Moyo's happy hour. To celebrate the end of a long week Mojo's hosts the weekly happy hour band from 16h00 until 20h00.

Moyo's also offers a more relaxed side. For guests lounging by the pool, Moyo's staff are there to serve cooling drinks and snacks without you having to move from your place in the sun.

The tropical like bar has something to offer everyone and makes for a terrific escape from the normal city life.

• The Japanese Gardens

Find your inner Zen at the Japanese Gardens in Tinsley Road, Durban North.

A gentle stroll through the oriental landscape soothes your city haste and balances an urban lifestyle. Much like life, numerous walking paths through the gardens cross and diverge with a choice of the traveller's journey.

Bamboo, reeds and Japanese blossoms provide tranquillity with an authentic Eastern feel.

Contact: (031) 563-333.

• Take a Citywalk

For those who have gone on architect Doung Anwar Jahangeer's Citywalk, it is an enlightening experience.

Moving from the suburban shopping mall of Musgrave Centre, down Berea Road, through the bustling Warwick Street district, into the City Centre and ending at the harbour's edge, the walk takes in a microcosm of Durban life.

It is an investigative journey, an exuberant exploration as well as humbling and cautionary tale, an allegory on the infinite complexities of spaces and timings in the city of Durban.
It was initiated and has been running since 2001 and is experimental, oral, visual and informal in nature.

Try this hidden gem. What's to lose?

• The Botanical Gardens

On the lower slopes of Durban's Berea ridge lies the city's brightest jewel, the Durban Botanic Gardens. It is the city's oldest public institution and Africa's oldest surviving botanic gardens.

The Durban Botanical Gardens are famous for the original specimen of a Cycad (Encephalartos woodii) that is still widely acknowledged as probably the rarest plant in the world, as well as for its extensive collection of South African Cycad species.

Take a walk thorough it today...

Contact: (031) 201-1303.

• Courtyard Nursery

Look for Davenport Road in Glenwood and you will find this exquisite nursery with many seedlings, established plants and hand-made garden accessories and pottery.

It is every gardeners dream. You don't even have to buy anything. The beauty and smell of plant life is enough to keep you inspired...

Contact: (031) 202 5381.

• Paradise Valley

Spend the day at the Paradise Valley Nature Reserve. The Paradise Valley waterfall is one of the most beautiful spots in the Durban district. There are several good walks, one of which runs alongside the river to the waterfall.

Picnic sites, public toilets, braai facilities, a car park and visitors centre are all available.

Open daily from 7am to 5pm.

• Valley of 1000 hills

The Valley of 1000 Hills Route is one of KwaZulu Natal's best kept secrets.

The Valley of a 1000 Hills forms around the majestic valley created by the Mngeni River and its tributaries. Many artists and crafters have been attracted to the beauty and tranquillity of this area which is dotted with cosy guest lodges, friendly pubs and tea gardens with sweeping views over the hills and dams.

The main attractions on the 1000 Hills Experience are the dramatic landscape and Zulu culture which is well interpreted at three cultural villages.

The 1000 Hills Choo Choo offers steam train trips from Kloof station to Cato Ridge on weekends and the more adventurous can view the stunning scenery from the skies.

Visit this site for more details that could help you plan your exploration root.

• Flow boarding

Try flowboarding at Gateway World. There are two FlowRiders (beginner waves) that are great for grass roots entry level into the phenomenal sport of flowboarding. Head to Gateway and give it a try.

Its' free!

• The Essenwood Craft Market

Explore the stalls at Essenwood Craft Market on a Saturday.

The region's foremost craft, art, treasures and collectables market takes place every Saturday morning under the trees a stone's throw away from Musgrave Centre.

Be sure to visit the Art Stand which is a one-stop arts, leisure, theatre, gallery and event info stand. In-between shopping, there is a comprehensive tea garden with an array of brunch and tea time delights, as well as children's activities and a playground.

Everyone loves a good bargain, and these craft markets have all you could ask for.

• Visit the Old Fort in Fort Road

The original fort was constructed of mud in 1842 by troops under Captain Thomas Smith. The garrison was besieged for 34 days by the Boers, resulting in the famous ride to Grahamstown by Dick King and Ndongeni Ka Xoki.

In 1858 the facilities were expanded to include an armoury and barracks, and troops remained in occupation until the end of the century.

It's absolutely free!

Take advantage of this opportunity to be so close to a part of history. Others aren't as lucky.

There you have it. Ten reasons to explore the beautiful province of Kwa-Zulu Natal.

But ssshh... It's a secret.

Experience Durban Take a trip to Durban for a weekend getaway. Our packages include flights, car rental, accommodation and meals.