The opportunity deals with the provision of tourism related facilities at the Shaka High Rock in Chakas Rock and the enhancement of facilities at the King Shaka Cave and Pool in Shakaville. The King Shaka Heritage Route was initiated in 2001 through the iLembe Job Creation Model. The route focuses on existing tourism products around the KwaDukuza area with emphasis on the King Shaka sites i.e. King Shaka’s Grave, Memorial Gardens, Interpretive Centre; Mavivane Execution Cliff; King Shaka’s Pool and Spring; Observation and High Rocks.

The aim of the creation of the King Shaka Heritage Route is to open-up new geographically diverse commercial opportunities and to increase visitor numbers to the area by offering a historical and cultural experience in addition to the beautiful coastal experiences. The listed sites will form the core of the route and offer an educational and meaningful tourism experience whilst linking to other significant components within the district i.e. Albert Luthuli Legacy Project, The Ultimatum Tree, Fort Person, Fort Tenedos etc.

The King Shaka Heritage Route will become a seamless part of the proposed larger ‘Zulu Heritage Route’ initiated by Tourism KwaZulu-Natal. The recent announcement of the King Shaka Statue to be erected on the banks of the Tugela River only serves to further enhance the potential of the King Shaka Heritage Route which will form a strong link between existing and new products.

Upgrading of the sites will ensure that the visitor experience will be a hassle free and enjoyable one. Furthermore, local communities will be able to benefit from increased visitor numbers by capitalising on business opportunities such as home-stays, bed and breakfasts, craft stalls and story-telling.