Things To Do
in Howick

Howick is a charming village located in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It is situated near the famous Howick Falls, a breathtaking waterfall that attracts many visitors. The area is also known for its historical significance, particularly in relation to the struggle against apartheid.

With a variety of outdoor activities, scenic landscapes, and local markets, Howick offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Howick
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Howick Falls, where you can enjoy the view and take photos of the cascading water.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets, where you can shop for handmade crafts and taste local delicacies.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll around the village to soak in the night atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Culture
morning
:

Embark on a hike in the nearby Karkloof Nature Reserve to experience the diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit the Nelson Mandela Capture Site to learn about the history of the area and the iconic leader.

evening
:

Have a relaxing evening at a café, enjoying the local coffee and desserts while reflecting on your day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10-20
Coffee$2-4
🚕Taxi Ride$5-10
🏨Hotel Night$40-80
🛍️Local Crafts$5-30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural history and significant historical sites.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Some areas may require a car for easy access.
  • Weather can be unpredictable during summer months.
  • "Sawubona" - Hello
  • "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
  • "Unjani?" - How are you?
  • "Ngicela" - Please
  • "Uphi umbathane?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Howick

Visit one of these nice places.

Howick Falls

Capture stunning shots of the 95-meter waterfall, especially at sunset.

Nelson Mandela Capture Site

A significant historical site featuring a striking sculpture, perfect for impactful photos.

Karkloof Nature Reserve

Beautiful landscapes and wildlife provide excellent opportunities for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Howick

Howick boasts a vibrant culinary scene that reflects the rich cultural tapestry of the region, offering a variety of traditional and contemporary dishes.

Howick Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bunny Chow

A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry, a must-try local dish.

Must-Try!

Bobotie

A South African classic made with spiced minced meat and topped with an egg custard.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Howick Farmers Market

Open every Saturday, this market features fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls around the village offer delicious snacks like bunny chow and boerewors rolls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Howick experiences a subtropical highland climate, with warm summers and cool winters. Summer months (November to February) see temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F) with occasional rain. Winter (June to August) is cooler, with temperatures averaging 5-20°C (41-68°F). Spring and autumn provide mild weather, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A handshake is a common greeting; addressing people by their titles is respectful.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start; it's polite to finish all your food.

Respect for Elders

Show deference to older individuals in conversation and public settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Howick is generally a safe destination; however, like any tourist area, it's wise to remain vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in quiet areas and keep valuables secure. Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and always have a plan for transportation.

Tipping in Howick

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants, although it's not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, it's good to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Expect warm temperatures and occasional thunderstorms; perfect for enjoying outdoor activities.

Autumn

Milder temperatures and beautiful fall foliage make this a picturesque time to visit.

Winter

Cooler temperatures prevail, but it's generally dry; great for hiking and exploring.

Spring

A season of blooming flowers and pleasant weather; ideal for photography and outdoor exploration.

Nightlife Guide

Howick at Night

Howick's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few bars and pubs offering a relaxed atmosphere. Live music events are common on weekends, showcasing local talent. While the nightlife is not as vibrant as in larger cities, it provides a cozy setting for those looking to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Howick

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Karkloof Nature Reserve Trails

Offering a variety of trails that range in difficulty, these paths allow for exploration of stunning flora and fauna.

Howick Falls Hiking Trail

A scenic trail that leads to the top of the falls, providing breathtaking views and photo opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Howick by plane.

Pietermaritzburg Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Howick, this small airport offers domestic flights and serves as the nearest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Howick is fairly walkable, especially around the village center where most shops, restaurants, and attractions are located. Sidewalks are available, but some areas may require caution due to traffic. For those looking to explore the surrounding nature, a vehicle is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Zulu Community

The Zulu people are the predominant ethnic group in the area, rich in traditions and cultural practices.

European Descendants

A significant portion of the population consists of individuals of European descent, contributing to the diverse cultural landscape.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rugby

Rugby is a beloved sport in Howick, with locals passionately supporting their teams.

Soccer

Soccer is widely played and enjoyed, with local matches often drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Howick is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include local taxis and buses, but schedules may be less frequent. It's advisable to check local transport options ahead of time, especially for travel to nearby cities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Howick.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check for specific preparations.

Halal Food

Halal options are available in some eateries; inquire ahead to ensure compliance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Howick is accessible, with several clinics and a hospital available for emergencies. Most healthcare facilities are well-equipped, but for specialized care, larger hospitals in nearby cities like Pietermaritzburg may be required. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover South Africa

Read more in our South Africa 2025 Travel Guide.

South Africa Travel Guide