Nestled between the sea and Drakensberg lies the town of Howick in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands of South Africa. This charming town is best known for the breathtaking Howick Falls, a majestic waterfall that plunges 95 meters into the Umgeni River. Howick offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture.
Howick Falls
A Town Steeped in History
During the 1840s, colonisers moving north from Pietermaritzburg crossed the Umgeni River just west of present-day Howick at the Alleman's Drift. In 1849, the Wesleyan Missionary James Archbell bought three farms above the northern bank of the Umgeni River. Title deeds of the original plots simply named the area "The Village on the Umgeni Waterfall".
With the increase in traffic to the north, the Government decided to establish a village at the crossing, and purchased part of James Archbell's farm. In November 1850, a proclamation appeared in the Natal Government Gazette, offering 36 village allotments on the Umgeni Waterfall Drift for sale. This marked the beginning of the town.
In choosing a name for the new town, Government officials decided to honour their secretary, Earl Grey. He was Earl Grey, and had recently acquired the title of Lord Howick. The name derived from his ancestral home of Howick Hall in Northumberland, England.
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Early Transportation and Tragedies
In 1850, the river crossing was moved to the dangerous but more convenient spot at the top of the Falls. This was less than 200 metres (660 feet) from where the river plunged over the cliff's edge. It was a treacherous spot, and many travellers and wagons were swept over the falls.
The
Howick's river of shame.
Map of Howick and Surrounding Area
The Allure and Peril of Howick Falls
The waterfall was known as kwaNogqaza or "The Place of the Tall One" by the original Zulu inhabitants. There are several other waterfalls in the vicinity and all of them have claimed human lives.
One incident involved a man attempting to dive over it. The body was brought up immediately after edge. This sparked a spate in suicides over the waterfall. There was only one known murder committed over the waterfall. Two of the culprits were later sentenced to death for their crime.
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Nelson Mandela Capture Site
The Mandela Capture Site offers a profound glimpse into South Africa’s past. In August 1962 he was returning from guerilla training in North Africa, having been on the run from the SA Security Police for 17 months. He was on his way from Durban to Johannesburg and was arrested on 5th August, 1962, at a point on the main R103 road near Lions River and a few kilometers from the town of Howick in Kwa-Zulu-Natal Province.
Nelson Mandela Capture Site
At the spot where Mandela was arrested, the Howick Town Council in 1996 erected a small, unassuming monument to honor that place and event. On August 6, 2012, for the 50th anniversary of Mandela’s arrest, a new, much more impressive Monument was unveiled, and is now designated as the National Capture Monument.
This impressive sculpture by artist Marco Cianfanelli consists of 50 black steel poles between 8-10 meters (26-32 feet) tall. They are arranged in a special pattern that gives the viewer a flat image of the face of Nelson Mandela facing West, when approached from the foot path leading down towards it, at a marked point exactly 35 meters (113 feet) away.
Activities and Attractions
Howick offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and zip-lining. The town’s proximity to the Midlands Meander makes it a perfect base for exploring this scenic route, known for its artisanal crafts, local cuisine, and picturesque countryside. Here's an overview of activities and attractions:
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- Howick Falls: Hiking trails with beautiful views.
- Nelson Mandela Capture Site: Features a museum and a striking sculpture commemorating Mandela's arrest.
- Karkloof Canopy Tour: Provides an exciting zip-lining adventure.
You can find unique crafts, fresh produce, and souvenirs at local markets and shopping areas. The local cuisine in Howick features a mix of traditional South African dishes and international flavors. You can enjoy local favorites such as biltong, boerewors, and bunny chow.
Accommodation and Safety
Howick offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. You can find charming bed and breakfasts, guesthouses, self-catering cottages, and hotels.
Howick is generally considered safe for tourists, but it's always important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, keep your belongings secure, and be aware of your surroundings.
Additional Information
Howick is a town located in the UMngeni Local Municipality of KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. The town is 1050 m above sea level, and about 88 kilometres from the port city of Durban. It experiences warm summers and cool, dry winters. A snappy chill descends upon Howick when snow falls on the nearby Drakensberg.
Table: Key Facts About Howick
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Location | KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, South Africa |
| Altitude | 1050 m above sea level |
| Distance from Durban | About 88 km |
| Main Attraction | Howick Falls (95 meters) |
| Historical Significance | Nelson Mandela Capture Site |
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