Stanger
Stanger / KwaDukuza, a historic capital of the Zulu nation, nestle on the North Coast of KwaZulu Natal’s rich sugar cane belt. The bustling town oozes a distinct Eastern flavour due to the import of Indian labourers during the late 1800’s to early 1900’s and is most famous for being the place of King Shaka’s assassination. After being murdered and thrown into a grain pit, the capital was burnt to the ground and the town of Stanger was later established by European settlers on the original site.
Within the town centre are numerous supermarkets, excellent restaurants, great shopping centres and well established bars. Accommodation offered in Stanger includes self-catering and catered guest / private houses and a lodge set in the midst of grand sugar cane estates. The King Shaka Memorial monument adjoined by a small museum grace the town centre. Attend the colourful Shaka Day Festival held at the Stanger Recreation Grounds or visit the Stanger North Coast Museum housing a fascinating variety of historical items, information on King Shaka, the town’s sugar industry and local history.
Take a tour to the Sappi Paper Mill, peruse the vibrant Indian markets or venture to the Sappi-Stanger Bird hide overlooking a huge pond offering the ideal habitat for the prolific wader and waterfowl species. Conclude the day by having a lovely picnic whilst taking in the peaceful scenic setting. Visit the many cultural villages for a true ethnic experience such as Shakaland, hike the picturesque trails, explore the battlefield sites or venture to the abundant game reserves and wildlife sanctuaries in the nearby area. Stanger is welcoming, a small and unique town drenched in historical and cultural riches, definitely not to be bypassed.
