Five Examples of Areas Featuring the Amazing Animals, Culture and Geography of Richard's Bay, South Africa

Richard's Bay, South Africa, is a gateway into the many wonderful natural areas of this spectacular continent. For those who want to experience a safari and see many of the wild animals of Africa up close, this is the right destination. Richard's Bay is rife with history as well, as the famed native warrior Shaka made his home base here, creating the Zulu Nation in the 1800s. Visitors to this country will have their pick from a veritable smorgasbord of interesting activities.

Richard's Bay Game Reserve may be the first stop for many who have just disembarked from a Princess Cruise. Located in the region known as KwaZulu Natal, this is a protected lagoon lying south of the Mhlatuzi River. Among the hundreds of species of bird and aquatic animal available for viewing are the gigantic hippopotamus and African crocodiles.

One of the exhibits of Africa's free roaming wildlife can be experienced in the Hluhluwe-Unfolozi Game Reserve, which was established in 1895. This preserved parcel of land showcases an abundance of Africa's greatest specimens. Vacationers who engage in a safari here may behold majestic creatures such as the elephant, rhinoceros, cape buffalo, leopard and the king of the jungle, the lion. These mammals and many more will be available for safe viewing inside a specially constructed off-road vehicle.

For a glimpse of a different type of environment, travelers can journey to iSimangaliso Wetland Park. The scale of the land here is staggering. This 332,000-hectare park is home to three lake systems and eight ecosystems, and sits upon the Atlantic coast. For fun, adventurous travelers can take a snorkeling or scuba diving expedition to view the beautiful coral reefs and all their colorful fish.

Those hoping to see examples of Africa's cultural heritage can visit Shakaland, a replica of an ancient Zulu settlement. This scene is replete with African beehive huts and traditional ceremonial events such as tribal dances, which are regularly performed for guests.

Richard's Bay is a thriving port city and provides a number of interesting areas for exploration. Vacationers can take walks along the magnificent shoreline, which features more than 600 kilometers of beach, or simply enjoy one another's company during a nice dinner. The shopping is spectacular as are the people. View World Cruises.