richards bay tourism office

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The City of uMhlathuze is made up of Richards Bay, Empangeni, eSikhaleni, Port Durnford, Vulindlela, Felixton, eNseleni and Ngwelezane, as well as the rural areas under Inkosi uDube, Inkosi uMkhwanazi, Inkosi uKhoza and Inkosi uZungu. uMhlathuze assumed city status on 21 August 2001. The name uMhlathuze is derived from the uMhlathuze River that meanders through the municipal area and unifies these towns, suburbs and traditional areas symbolically.

With a population of approximately 350 000, uMhlathuze is situated 180km North East of Durban on the coast. The City of uMhlathuze is rich in diversity and is the ideal holiday destination where nature lovers can explore the internationally acclaimed game reserves and visit the spectacular wetlands. Outdoor and sporting enthusiasts can take advantage of the subtropical climate and endless beaches and cultural heritage seekers can visit Zulu Cultural Villages, museums and markets.

Empangeni was established as a Norwegian Mission in 1841 and has flourished to become the commercial and agricultural centre of the City of uMhlathuze, occupying 13% of the total 796sq/km municipal area. According to folklore the name Empangeni was derived from the Zulu word ‘phanga’ (which means grabbed), as a result of the many crocodile attacks on water bearers and visitors to the nearby crocodile infested stream eMpangeni. Another version of the origin of the name of the Town is that it is derived from the Mpange trees (Olinia radiata), which grow on the banks of the Empangeni River.

Richards Bay is considered to be the industrial and tourism centre of the area and occupies 37% of the total 796sq/km municipal area. Richards Bay began its existence as a small fishing town and flourished with the development of the Port of Richards Bay, the country’s deepest and largest port, in 1976. It has been earmarked by the Government as one of the country’s growth and development points, and through the Industrial Development Zone initiative (IDZ) will attract a great deal of investment. Richards Bay is already home to some of the country’s most productive and lucrative industries.

This is the City’s home of the ‘ekasie’ (township) culture. It is adorned with one of the most pristine features of nature, Icubu Lake. It is also home to the King Cetshwayo Monument at the place where King Cetshwayo boarded the ship when he was being exiled to England, after a defeat of amaZulu at the battle of Ulundi in 1879. eSikhaleni also boasts top class taverns and accommodation facilities that provide the best entertainment. The restaurants are an ideal place to enjoy African cuisine. For tours and accommodation around eSikhaleni, the uMhlathuze Tourism can be contacted 035-907 5018 or 035-907 5630.

The area of Vulindlela is home of one of the academic institutions in the African continent, the University of Zululand. It is the only comprehensive institution of higher learning north of the uThukela River. It has always strived in producing graduates with high-level knowledge and skills. Currently, it is experiencing an increased intake of students from other parts of Africa, especially from Namibia, Nigeria, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland. Tel-035-902 6000

The nearest commercial airport is the Richards Bay Airport. SA Express 035-786 0301 conduct daily flights between Richards Bay and Johannesburg. Empangeni has an air- field.

Visit www.richardsbayairport.co.za  for more information. 

The two main feeder roads to Empangeni and Richards Bay are the N2 highway from Durban (South) and Pongola (North) and the R34 from Vryheid and Melmoth (West). The condition of the roads range from above average to adequate and road signage is in accordance with international codes. The Greyhound Bus 035-772 2090 runs between Empangeni, Richards Bay and most major centres.

Richards Bay is the first port of call with world-class facilities for vessels. The Zululand Yacht Club 035-788 0256 and the Tuzi Gazi Moorings 035-788 0031 cater for the international yachting fraternity.

Climate conditions are typically sub-tropical to tropical. The average daily temperature in summer is 28oC and in winter 24oC (Empangeni) and 22°C (Richards Bay). The humidity levels tend to be very high and the annual rainfall is 1100mm (Empangeni) and 1200mm (Richards Bay).

Local Weather......................................082 231 1605

Surf Conditions....................................083 123 0500

Ski Boat & Sailing Conditions..............082 231 1607

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Richards Bay

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Richards Bay is a city of 57,000 people (2011) in KwaZulu-Natal . It is a gateway to Zululand, and an area popular with foreign tourists because of its large game parks and the diverse wildlife on offer. It is also a destination for watersport enthusiasts.

Understand [ edit ]

Richards Bay is a lagoon of the Mhlatuze River. It is one of the country's largest harbours, and is the deepest natural harbour on the African continent.

The town is surrounded by natural lakes and marshes, making it a picturesque place.

Get in [ edit ]

Get around [ edit ].

See [ edit ]

Do [ edit ].

The lagoon allows for many different watersports.

There is a golf course that is home to hippos, crocodiles, fish eagles, and monkeys, which make for unusual challenges.

Watch whales and humpback dolphins from the viewing platform at Alkantstrand Beach.

The Enseleni Nature Reserve is home to wildebeest, reedbuck, and zebra, and has hiking trails.

Buy [ edit ]

Eat [ edit ], drink [ edit ], sleep [ edit ].

• -28.793004 32.080462 1 Bon Hotel Richards Bay Waterfront , Braem Hill, Richards Bay, 3900 , ☏ +27 35 788 0448 . ( updated Apr 2019 )

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8 FLAMBOYANT

• About Richards Bay

About Richards bay

• Mtunzini - 40km
• Gingindlovu - 60km
• St Lucia - 80km
• Empangeni - 20km
• Durban - 180km
• Hluhluwe - 90km
• Eshowe - 80km
• Mtubatuba - 50km
• Ulundi - 155km
• Sodwana - 210km

Climate Climate conditions are typically subtropical to tropical. The average daily temperature in summer is 28 degrees C and in winter 22 degrees C. The humidity levels tend to be very high and the annual rainfall is 1200mm. Weather Reports: Local Weather 082 231 1605 Surf Conditions 082 231 1610 Ski Boat & Sailing Conditions 082 231 1607 Shopping and service facilities There are ample 24-hour service stations in the area with 24-hour convenience stores. Business hours are usually from 08h00 to 16h00 on weekdays and 98h00 to 12h00 on Saturdays. Many shopping malls and supermarkets maintain longer business hours and are open on Sundays too. Back To Top Health and medical Richards Bay boasts excellent medical practitioners and a first class private hospital. The Travel Doctor Richards Bay (035 789 6172) can be contacted for any travel related health issues. Malaria prevention RICHARDS BAY IS A LOW RISK MALARIA AREA. The following steps should be taken when visiting areas north of St. Lucia.

• Avoid mosquito bites. Between dusk and dawn dress in long sleeves, trousers and shoes. Apply the appropriate insect repellent to exposed skin every 4 hours. If accommodation is not screened, insecticide-impregnated bed nets should be used
• Diagnose and treat malaria promptly
• Use prevention anti-malaria drugs
• Contact the Travel Doctor for individualised and appropriate medication

Safety and security Although the majority of the population is peace loving, one needs to maintain awareness levels and practice self-security measures. Visitors are asked to be alert at all times. Contact uMhlathuze Tourism Office (035 753 3909) for hints and advice in this regard.

Things To Do

Deep sea fishing, dolphin viewing platform, enseleni nature reserve, horse trails and riding lessons, lake mzingazi, motor glider flights, municipal swimming pools, richards bay country club, shore fishing, thula thula, tuzi gazi waterfront.

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"Coastal Gateway and Natural Harbor"

Richards bay tourism.

Richards Bay is a seaport in South Africa, located on the eastern shore of the Indian Ocean. It is a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers, offering stunning beaches, lush natural settings, and plenty of activities. Its main attractions include the uMfolozi-uMhlathuze Local Municipality, the Zululand Birding Route, the uMfolozi Game Reserve, and the Richards Bay Boardwalk, one of the longest boardwalks in the world.

Richards Bay is a great place for adventure seekers and nature lovers. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, kudus, and zebras. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and swimming in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. There are also plenty of activities for those wanting to explore the town, such as golf, horseback riding, and bird watching. For those who simply want to relax, there are beautiful sandy beaches, excellent restaurants, and a bustling nightlife. When visiting Richards Bay, the main attractions to visit include the uMfolozi-uMhlathuze Local Municipality, the Zululand Birding Route, the uMfolozi Game Reserve, and the Richards Bay Boardwalk. Other attractions include the uMfolozi-Hlabisa Wetland Park, the Zululand Rhino Reserve, and the Richards Bay Marina. When visiting Richards Bay, it is important to keep in mind that the town is in a malaria-prone region. Visitors should take precautions to protect themselves from mosquitoes, such as wearing long-sleeved clothing and using insect repellent. It is also important to be aware of the local laws and customs, as well as the weather. Richards Bay is a fantastic destination for travelers who want to experience the wonders of South Africa's nature, culture, and history

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10 things to do in and around richards bay, kzn.

The tropical, under-the-radar city of Richards Bay along the northern coast of KwaZulu Natal boasts beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and water sports galore.

If you’re unsure what to do in sunny Richards Bay, here are ten options.

Picture: Unsplash

1. Alkantstrand Beach

Alkantstrand Beach is Richards Bay’s only blue flag beach and is loved for its amazing surfing conditions and natural splendor.

Lifeguards are on duty year-round, so families can spend their days splashing in the warm Indian Ocean safely.

2. Portuguese on the Bay

Indulge in a Portuguese feast while overlooking the glorious bay. Visitors and locals head over to Portuguese on the Bay for the city’s best-cooked ribs, prawns, and calamari.

3. Pelican Island

Don’t expect to see any pelicans at Pelican Island (no one quite knows where it got its name from), but don’t let that stop you from visiting. This island is perfect for snorkeling, kite surfing, fishing, and swimming. The sea is calm enough for little ones to splash around, and the beach is dog-friendly.

4. Mtunzini Trails

Unlike its fellow scavengers, the palmnut vulture feeds predom-
inantly on nuts and fruit. 
(Photo Hugh Chittenden)

The Mtunzini Trails are found just outside the Umlazi Nature Reserve. The boardwalk weaves through a swamp forest, one of the country’s most beautiful mangrove forests. Palm nut vultures nest in the raphia palms, so keep an eye to the sky when walking the Mtunzini Trails.

5. Porkys at the Lake

Porkys at the Lake is another restaurant that offers incredible food and views. This restaurant serves a variety of meals, including chicken dishes, pizza, and sushi. Kids will also enjoy the outdoor playground.

6. Hluhluwe-iMofolozi Game Reserve

Although an hour’s drive out, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve is the oldest national park in Africa and well worth a visit if you are in the area. This Big Five game reserve has plenty of picnic spots, plentiful views of the landscapes, and Hilltop Restaurant if you feel like stretching your legs and enjoying a milkshake.

7. Dlinza Forest Aerial Boardwalk

This aerial boardwalk has been named one of KZN’s hidden gems. It is about an hour and a half’s drive from Richards Bay and offers an incredible walk through the enchanting woodland, birding opportunities, and picnic spots.

8. The Clay Oven

This restaurant is a great place for a lazy lunch, sundowners, or a delectable dinner. Diners are treated to gorgeous views of passing ships on the ocean and mouth-watering meals.

9. Cape Vidal

Picture: Steven Gerner

You’ll have to drive through the Isimangaliso Wetland Park to reach Cape Vidal, which is an exciting excursion in its own right. The ocean is warm and boasts diverse and vibrant marine life. It’s advised that you do a guided snorkel with a professional guide as the currents can be very strong and dangerous.

10. Enseleni Nature Reserve

Enseleni Nature Reserve is situated between Richards Bay and Empangeni and is separated by the Nseleni River. It’s a haven for wildlife, including zebra, wildebeest, impala, giraffes, crocodiles, and hippos.

ALSO READ: Richard’s Bay: the furthest port

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• About Richards Bay
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Richards Bay, Zululand

The town of Richards Bay lies at the sea edge of an ancient floodplain, almost halfway between Durban and Kosi Bay and forms the tourist gateway to Zululand and Maputaland.

Richards Bay began its life as a makeshift harbour, set up by Sir Frederick Richards, after whom it is also named, during the Anglo-Boer War of 1879. For many years, the town was little more than a sleepy fishing town until a hydrographic survey revealed that Richards Bay had even greater development potential than Durban . However, the transformation of Richards Bay into the country’s largest harbour and the world’s largest coal terminal only happened in 1976.

Despite this, Richards Bay has some of the most spectacular wetland scenery and unspoilt beaches on the north coast of KwaZulu Natal. The Zululand Birding Route includes Richards Bay Harbour and the Game Reserve, known also as New Mouth, on its route. This part of the route covers sandbanks, mud flats, extensive mangroves, freshwater pans and forest areas and bird watchers can spot a number of rarities such as the cuckoo hawk and pygmy goose. New Mouth features a number of aquatic birds as well as hippos and crocodiles.

Richards Bay is also fairly close to Gauteng and serves as a sea destination for many who want to escape the city life. It is a vibrant town that now actively markets a new concept in tourism - Industrial tourism. Groups in town for business are able to visit industrial plants, mines and other operations, particularly relevant for Richards Bay as some R1-billion is to be spent on expanding the export capacity of the harbour to 92 million tons of coal by 2008.

Richards Bay has excellent recreational facilities and visitors can enjoy art galleries, fishing, beachcombing, bird watching , surfing , swimming, canoeing as well as some wonderful drives in and around Richards Bay. One such example is inland from Gingindlovu to Eshowe, via the Nkwalini Valley to Empangeni - a gorgeous drive.

Additional Reading

For more info about Richards Bay see our articles on the SA Travel News Blog: • Richards Bay for outdoor enthusiasts

Travellers' Reviews

2 Reviews from SA-Venues.com travellers. All reviews are verified.

Verified review very good

I stayed at a bed and breakfast i think it was La Rochelle in Meerense for about a month. The rooms and people there were so friendly and the whole lay out of the bed and breakfast was amazing. The weather is so nice and hot there. The restaurants and the people there are so friendly and helpful, definitely not anything of what i am used to. went to a game reserve saw elephants and most nights was at Majitos. I never once felt out or not meant to be there - it was the most welcoming place and the best experience and made so many friends while i was there. Going out in the night was such a pleasure. I just cannot believe how amazing everyone is there almost like they are saved from society. Everything is so close to each other, no far distances to travel. I loved it was a absolute pleasure!!

Kayleigh Nel (East London)

Richard's Bay has so much going for it in terms of things to do, but all I can do when I'm there is indulge myself in hours on the beach. The water is warm and the days are boiling hot - the perfect ingredients to a summer vac!

Caitlyn Herbert (Somerset West)

In the vicinity

Hotels & other accommodation options.

Villa Pesca

Villa Pesca is a holiday home in Meerensee offering self catering accommodation in Richards Bay. Villa Pesca is situated 1km from various shops a...

The Sanctuary

The Sanctuary offers accommodation in a variety of guest rooms. Guests have access to a shared full kitchen. There is an indoor braai room with d...

Pompano Place

Pompano Place has two units which can each accommodate two guests each. Each unit has a bedroom furnished with a Queen-size bed. There is a cosy ...

Gecko Inn is located in the city of Umhlatuze, Richards Bay, in the heart of KwaZulu Natal. The true gateway to the most prestigious game parks, ...

Nomusa Bed & Breakfast

Nomusa Bed & Breakfast is a secure, tranquil and homely establishment located in the leafy suburb of Veld-en-Vlei in Richards Bay, and caters for...

Hillton Manor Guest House

Hillton Manor Guesthouse offers accommodation in Meerensee, a delightful coastal suburb which overlooks the Mzingazi Lake. With our friendly natu...

Minilitha Lodge

Minilitha Lodge provides accommodation in nine fully self-contained rooms in Richards Bay. The establishment has a garden and braai facilities......

On the Bay 72

On the Bay 72 is located in the prestigious Mzingazi Waterfront Village in Richards Bay, alongside the canal joining the Richards Bay Harbour....

Premier Splendid Inn Bayshore

The Premier Splendid Inn Bayshore in Richards Bay offers 102 hotel rooms featuring all the modern amenities you'd expect from a luxury 3 star hot...

Woodpecker Inn

Woodpecker Inn offers accommodation and the comforts of country living in thatched lodges in Richards Bay. Woodpecker Inn boasts 40 en-suite air-...

Nyathi Lodge

Nyathi Lodge offers overnight accommodation in Richards Bay, a coastal town situated on a 30km² lagoon of the Mhlatuze River in KwaZulu Natal. Ri...

On the Bay 108

On the Bay 108 is located alongside the canal joining the Richards Bay Harbour in the prestigious Mzingazi Waterfront Village in Richards Bay. Th...

On The Bay 98

On The Bay 98 offers accommodation in Richards Bay in the prestigious Mzingazi Waterfront Village, alongside the canal joining the Richards Bay H...

Mzingeli Guesthouse

Mzingeli Guesthouse is an up-market venue offering accommodation in Merensee on a golf estate. The guesthouse is perfectly located between the be...

Umuzi Guesthouse

Umuzi Guesthouse is located in Meerensee and offers accommodation, excellent food and the ideal base of operation from which to explore the area....

Aristo Manor Guest House

Aristo Manor Guest House offers accommodation in the leafy suburb of Birdswood in Richards Bay. All rooms have air conditioning, a TV with DStv, ...

Premier Hotel The Richards

Premier Hotel The Richards enjoys the reputation of being one of the best hotels in Richards Bay. Situated in the exclusive suburb of Meerensee, ...

La Rochelle Inn

Surrounded by tropical gardens, experience warm and homely comfort. A stay at La Rochelle is like being in your own home whilst being treated to ...

Ntoliwa B&B

Ntoliwa B&B is situated in the suburb of Brackenham, 4km north of Richards Bay town in KwaZulu-Natal. The guesthouse is a secure, calm, and homel...

On The Bay 15

On the Bay 15 is an air conditioned, open plan holiday apartment in Richards Bay sleeping four guests. The living area has Wi-Fi and Smart TV wit...

DuneSide Guest House

The Guest House is ideally suited for business executive or tourist seeking comfortable accommodation. DuneSide Guest House is located in the cit...

Xaba Guest Lodge

Xaba Guest Lodge in Richards Bay has rooms furnished with comfortable double bed or a double bed and single beds. Each air-conditioned room has a...

The Ridge Guesthouse

The Ridge Guesthouse offers accommodation in Meerensee, Richards Bay. Situated in a quiet suburb on a ridge overlooking natural bush with ocean a...

Canefields Country House

Canefields Country House is a traditional sugar cane mansion converted into a homely country hotel. The property provides accommodation in tranqu...

Seagull Lodge

Seagull Lodge offers accommodation only 500 meters from the Boardwalk Inkwazi Mall and 5 minutes drive from the ski boat club and Alkantstrand Be...

Gecko Inn Holiday House

Gecko Inn Holiday House offers Richards Bay Accommodation, the true gateway to the most prestigious game parks, game lodges and sanctuaries in Zu...

La Mer Lodge

La Mer Lodge offers affordable accommodation in Richards Bay. Choose from any of our comfortable rooms and enjoy relaxing at the swimming pool, i...

Elephant Hills B&B

Elephant Hills offers accommodation in the upmarket suburb of Meerensee. All rooms are en-suite and fitted with air-conditioning for the warm, su...

Serendipity Guesthouse

Whether in Richards Bay for business or on holiday with family and friends, Serendipity Guesthouse offers a range of accommodation to meet your n...

Things to do in the area

Durnford Lighthouse

An unattended aceylene gas lighthouse, Durnford was originally erected in 1916 on a headland 15 kilometres south of Richards Bay. The headland on...

Alkanstrand

Dubbed the tourism gateway to Zululand and Maputaland, Richards Bay is characterised by its exquisite beaches and the gorgeous terrain that is so...

Boardwalk Inkwazi Mall

The Boardwalk Inkwazi Mall is one of the most popular centres of shopping and entertainment in Richards Bay. Here, more than 65 000 square metres...

Naval Island

Naval Island is one of the most popular beach attractions in Richard’s Bay; both amongst the locals and the tourists that visit here every year. ...

Noteworthy attractions

AmaZulu Game Reserve

Situated in Northern KwaZulu Natal, on the banks of the Mkuze River, the Amazulu Private Game Reserve is the home of the Amakhosi and Mkuze Falls...

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

The Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is the only park under formal conservation in KwaZulu Natal where the Big Five occur. Established in 1895, this is the...

Ithala Game Reserve

This magnificent Ithala Game reserve, tumbling from the heights of the Ngotshe Mountains a thousand meters down into a deep valley, carved over t...

Mkhuze Game Reserve

Situated in northern Zululand, this 40 000 hectare reserve was proclaimed a protected area in 1912. Mkuze Game Reserve constitutes the north west...

Mkuze Falls Private Game Reserve

Situated in the heart of historic Zululand in the South African province of KwaZulu Natal, Mkuze Falls is one of only two Private Game Reserves i...

Pakamisa Game Reserve

The Pakamisa Private Game Reserve comprises a pristine malaria free wilderness area of some 2500 hectares. Access to the reserve is restricted, e...

Pongola Nature Reserve

The Pongola Nature Reserve was first proclaimed in 1894 and is the second oldest reserve in the world and the oldest in South Africa. Pongola Nat...

Richards Bay Game Reserve

The Reserve has remnant stands of swamp forest, the Thulazihleka Bird viewing hide in small swamp and the Tidal Mudflats and shallows south of th...

Ubizane Wildlife Reserve

Ubizane Wildlife Reserve boasts a variety of wildlife including white rhino, giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, most species of antelope, and over 350 s...

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Top Tours in Richards Bay, South Africa

Richards bay tours.

• Ports of Call Tours
• Private Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Half Day Private Tour in iSimangaliso Wetland Park

2. Hluhluwe/iMfolozi Game Reserve Full Day Game Drive

3. Shore Excursion Richards Bay Big 5 Safari Experience

4. Hluhluwe and Imfolozi Safari Day Tour from Richards Bay

5. Big 5 Luxury Safari at Manyoni Private Game Reserve + Binoculars

6. Duma Zulu Cultural Village Day Tour from Richards Bay

7. Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park Excursion

8. Richards Bay Shore Excursion: Private Small Group Hluhluwe Safari

9. St Lucia Boat Safari Day Tour from Richards Bay

10. Emdoneni Wild Cat Project Day Tour from Richards Bays

11. Richards Bay Shore Excursion: Pvt Small Group Hluhluwe & DumaZulu

12. Richards Bay Shore Excursion: Small Group Hluhluwe & St Lucia

13. Richards Bay Shore Excursion: Small Group Isimangaliso & St Lucia

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Shoreline Hippo and Crocodile Boat Cruises, iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park Full Day Big 5 Safari Tour

iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Full Day Tour

Cape Vidal Snorkeling Adventure

Hluhluwe Game Drive - Full day with lunch

iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Night Drive Safari

Half-day Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park Big 5 Safari Experience

Full-day Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park Big 5 Safari Experience

Hluhluwe Game Drive - Half day

What travellers are saying.

• Half Day Private Tour in iSimangaliso Wetland Park
• Shore Excursion Richards Bay Big 5 Safari Experience
• Hluhluwe and Imfolozi Safari Day Tour from Richards Bay
• Hluhluwe/iMfolozi Game Reserve Full Day Game Drive
• Richards Bay Shore Excursion: Private Small Group Hluhluwe Safari
• Under African Skies
• Mandlakhe Travel & Tours
• East Coast Safaris - Day Tours
• Zulu Safaris Richards Bay
• Blue Lightning Express

Top Things to Do in Richards Bay, South Africa - Richards Bay Must-See Attractions

Things to do in richards bay, explore popular experiences, tours in and around richards bay.

• Half Day Private Tour in iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Shore Excursion Richards Bay Big 5 Safari Experience

Big 5 Luxury Safari at Manyoni Private Game Reserve + Binoculars

Duma Zulu Cultural Village Day Tour from Richards Bay

• Hluhluwe/iMfolozi Game Reserve Full Day Game Drive

• Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park Excursion

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park Full Day Big 5 Safari Tour

Hippo and Croc Boat Cruise in Saint Lucia with Pick-up

Shoreline Hippo and Crocodile Boat Cruises, iSimangaliso Wetland Park

iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Full Day Tour

Top Attractions in Richards Bay

Other Top Attractions around Richards Bay

Nature and Wildlife Tours

Ports of call tours.

Water Tours

Private sightseeing tours, what travellers are saying.

• Boardwalk Mall
• Alkantstrand Beach
• Pelican Island
• Naval Island
• Richards Small Craft Harbour
• Hluhluwe and Imfolozi Safari Day Tour from Richards Bay
• Richards Bay Shore Excursion: Private Small Group Hluhluwe Safari
• East Coast Safaris - Day Tours

• Flight Schedule

Currently, Airlink is the exclusive airline connecting Johannesburg and Richards Bay, providing a convenient and reliable travel option. You can find more details about their services on their website : [Airlink](https://www.flyairlink.com/en/za/) .

Airlink operates three daily flight schedules, catering to various preferences. The morning flight runs from 07:55 am to 09:10 am, the midday option is available from 12:40 pm to 13:55 pm, and a late afternoon flight operates between 17:30 pm and 18:45 pm. These flights are available on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. For Tuesday, Saturday, and Sunday, there is one flight scheduled.

Flight Schedule : Click Here

Flight Info: Click Here

Notably, on December 4, 2023, Airlink introduced the Embraer 170 Aircraft to enhance the travel experience on the Johannesburg-Richards Bay route. This 74-seater aircraft has replaced the Jet 41, which was initially deployed after the Covid-19 pandemic as part of Airlink's relaunch strategy for this specific route.

This upgrade to the Embraer 170 Aircraft signifies Airlink's commitment to providing passengers with a comfortable and modern flying experience. Stay tuned for further developments and enhancements as Airlink continues to connect these two vibrant destinations.

Richards Bay Airport operates under a concession managed by ACSA, with air traffic control services expertly provided by Air Traffic Navigation Services (ATNS). The airport features a single runway, designated as 05/23, boasting a length of 1,300m and a width of 21m, with a PCN (Pavement Classification Number) of 27. While the specified ICAO width for a Code 2B runway is 23m, our runway remains accommodative within this category.

It's important to note that the airport lacks a parallel taxiway, necessitating landing aircraft to turn on the runway and taxi back to the terminal or general aviation area. The maximum wingspan for aircraft accommodated at the airport is 24m.

Scheduled services connect Richards Bay Airport with OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA). The airport is equipped with Category V rescue and firefighting facilities, operating as Category IV according to ICAO Annex 14 Table 9-1 standards. This ensures a secure and well-prepared environment for the safety of all operations.

The airport's capacity is optimized for aircraft with a maximum seating of 74 passengers, exemplified by the Embraer 170. Richards Bay Airport is committed to providing a safe and efficient operational space for airlines and passengers alike.

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