Making the most of Richards Bay
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
The Port of Richards Bay is the gateway to the heart of Zululand and cruise ships are welcomed with a team of Zulu dancers and craft makers on the quayside. A tourist information office is nearby. Boardwalk Inkwazi Shopping center in Richards Bay boasts an eclectic mix of shopping options.
The cruise terminal is situated close to downtown Richard's Bay, typically within a short distance that can be covered by taxi or a short walk.
It is a modern, scenic marina. Most times a shuttle to a modern shopping mall is provided for.
Printable map to take along.
Richards Bay is a relatively new city with the plans being laid in 1954 and not officially declared a city until 1969.
A new deep-water port inaugurated in 1976 is the second largest port in the country after Durban. In its wake, a number of large and small industries, hotels, shops and restaurants have sprung up, causing the town to develop at a record-breaking pace.
Lake Mzingazi This fresh-water lake on the outskirts of Richards Bay is home to crocodiles and hippos. The surrounding lush vegetation is a paradise for bird-watchers.
Getting around
There is an outdoor "mall" just outside the gate with a few stores are selling tours.
Most guests partake in cruise organized tours. There are several other private game reserves in the area within an hour's drive, but most of the tours occur during the high heat of the day when most animals are out of sight.
Nearby places
The most important attractions are found outside Richards Bay in the game reserves and cultural villages. For many visitors Zululand represents some of the "real" Africa, an area that covers much of central KwaZulu-Natal, including the port of Richards Bay and the adjacent Hluhluwe Game Park. The region is dominated by the Zulu tribe; their customs, historical traditions and culture are evident throughout the region. The name Zulu derives from an early chief, whose descendants were called aba-kwa Zulu, or people of Zulu. Their capital is Ulundi, located north of the Tugela River. Much of Zululand comprises a scenic, hilly interior plus some…
Food and shopping
Richards Bay has several shopping malls with boutiques and specialty shops selling curios. The Gallery specializes in local wood carvings from furniture to souvenir items. When buying wooden articles make sure the wood was treated for termites.
Money
The currency is the Rand (ZAR) Automated teller machines (ATMs), linked to all major international networks, are available throughout the country. It is best to use only ATMs that are inside a mall or other building. Always be careful to make sure no one is watching you enter your PIN, and be vigilant about scams (e.g. machines that seem to eat your card and won't give it back after you enter the PIN).
Most retail stores accept credit cards.
Staying connected
South Africa has 11 official languages. Most people other than rural black Africans speak English, although not many as a first language. Afrikaans is also widely-spoken, especially by the white and colored population.
The ship docks near a marina with cafes and bars and free wi-fi.
Opening Hours and
Shopping hours Mon-Fri 0900-1700, Sat 0900-1400, although there is an increasing trend to open later and all weekend in major tourist spots. Shopping malls often stay open til' 9PM.