Things To Do
in Howick
Howick is a tranquil town in KwaZulu-Natal's Midlands, perched along the Lions River. Surrounded by pine forests, green valleys, and rolling farmlands, it blends rural charm with a growing arts scene. The town is best known for the dramatic Howick Falls and for the relaxed Midlands Meander experiences nearby.
Visitors come to hike, savor farm-to-table cuisine, and explore leafy countryside escape from bigger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Howick and check into your accommodation, taking a moment to appreciate the beautiful Natal Midlands scenery. After settling in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh and hearty South African dishes. The morning light casts a warm glow over the landscape, inviting you to explore the area's natural beauty.
Visit the Howick Falls, a spectacular 95-meter waterfall located just a short walk from the town. Take in the stunning views and capture unforgettable photographs while learning about the rich history of the falls. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the falls or at one of the nearby parks, soaking up the tranquil surroundings.
Head into town for dinner at a local restaurant, where you can indulge in traditional South African cuisine. Relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, perhaps catching some live music if available. As the sun sets, take a casual stroll through the town, appreciating the local character and hospitality.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast, then set out to explore the scenic Midlands Meander route, famous for its art, craft, and food. Stop by the local craft shops and galleries, meeting artisans who create beautiful handcrafted goods. The morning is filled with a sense of discovery as you visit unique locations along the way.
Spend your afternoon at one of the numerous dairy farms along the route, indulging in fresh cheese tasting and learning about the local cheese-making process. Enjoy the serenity of the countryside, with rolling hills and beautifully maintained gardens providing a picturesque backdrop. Grab a light lunch at a farm stall, enjoying fresh produce straight from the land.
Return to Howick and unwind over dinner at a cozy pub, sampling local brews paired with classic dishes. Share your adventures of the day with fellow travelers or locals, enjoying their company and stories. As night falls, relax in your accommodation, reflecting on the vibrant culture of the Midlands.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride | $3-8 |
| 🛒Grocery staples for a week | $30-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Midlands scenery and accessible nature experiences
- Strong farm-to-table and craft culture with friendly locals
- Compact town feel with easy day trips to nearby villages and markets
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options compared to big cities
- Some rural services may require short drives for certain amenities
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Ngiyacela amanzi" - Please, water
- "Ngicela usizo" - I need help
- "Ngiyavuma" - I agree / OK
Places to Visit in Howick
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic 95-meter waterfall with viewing decks and misty spray; best captured at sunrise or after rainfall.
A rustic river crossing framed by rural farmland and the rolling hills of the Midlands.
Lush forest routes with viewpoints over gorges and a chance to spot local birds and small wildlife.
Panoramic farmland and forest vistas along the Midlands Meander corridor.
Food in Howick
Howick Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Bread hollowed out and stuffed with curry, a quintessential South African dish with strong Indian influence found in many local eateries.
Must-Try!
A slow-cooked stew prepared in a cast-iron pot over a fire, typically served with pap and chakalaka at local eateries.
Traditional South African sausage paired with maize porridge and a spicy relish, often featured at braai spots and family-friendly restaurants.
A casual barbecue scene with grilled meats, salads, and breads, widely available at lodges, guesthouses, and community gatherings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Saturday mornings with fresh produce, breads, preserves, and ready-to-eat treats from local vendors.
Artisan crafts, farm-fresh bites, and local produce along the Midlands Meander route.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly Sawubona or hello in English; maintain respectful eye contact.
Smart casual is suitable for most venues; rural areas may be more relaxed but modest attire is appreciated.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in smaller communities or private settings.
Safety
Tipping in Howick
Ensure a smooth experience
In casual spots, tipping 5-10% is appreciated if service is good; in higher-end restaurants 10-15% is common. Round up taxi fares where appropriate.
Cash and cards are widely accepted in towns; contactless payments are common. Some rural shops may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, often humid days with late-afternoon thundershowers. Carry water, sunscreen, and a hat; mornings are pleasant for outdoor walks.
Mild days with cooler evenings; excellent for hikes and scenic drives as foliage settles into golden tones.
Cool mornings and evenings; layers are essential; frost can occur on higher hills with clear, crisp days.
Blooming flora and comfortable temperatures; ideal for outdoor markets, walks, and nature reserves.
Howick at Night
Hiking in Howick
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest-lined path with multiple viewpoints and a waterfall near Howick.
Rolling farmland and forest ridges offering panoramic valley views.
Short, scenic loops around the falls suitable for all ages.
Airports
How to reach Howick by plane.
Durban area airport about 1.5–2 hours by road from Howick.
Smaller regional airport serving the PMB region, roughly 1 hour away by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents and visitors communicate in isiZulu alongside English.
A mix of agricultural families and long-term residents contributes to a diverse Midlands culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple sport in schools and clubs, with local matches and community events.
Played in leagues during summer; local grounds host games and social events.
Several Midlands courses offer scenic rounds amid rolling hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Howick.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most spots offer vegetarian curries, salads, and veggie mains; inform staff of dietary needs and inquire about stock used in sauces.