Howick: A Village Filled with History and Myth
The town of Howick is located in the KwaZulu-Natal Province in South Africa. Back in the mid-1800s, the title deeds for Howick simply called it “the village on the Umgeni Waterfall”. The town was named after Earl Grey, then London’s Secretary of State for the Colonies, who attained the title of Viscount Howick in the early 1800s. The nearest airport to Howick, South Africa is the Pietermaritzburg Airport.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Howick, South Africa for ideal weather conditions is either from March to May or August to November. Temperatures during these periods range from cool to pleasantly warm. February is the best time to visit for avoiding peak season. Swimming enthusiasts can also visit in Howick in February to catch the annual Midmar Mile. This is recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s largest open water swimming event.
What to Do & Area Attractions
The Nelson Mandela Capture Site commemorates Nelson Mandela’s capture and arrest by the Apartheid police. Created by Marco Cianfanelli and Jeremy Rose, it consists of 50 steel columns that form Mandela’s portrait, symbolizing a crucial moment in the country’s history. Because of its impressive height, the people of Howick, South Africa call the Howick Public Falls the “Place of the Tall One”. The falls are also believed to be the resting place of the Inkanyamba, a mythical giant serpent. Near this site is one of the higher-rated Howick hotels, the Howick Falls Hotel, with simple and comfortable rooms. The Sunbird Guest House is perfect for a quaint family vacation.