Howick is known as the place of many waterfalls where the uMngeni River and its tributaries tumble down gorges on a journey to the Indian Ocean. The high Howick Falls are any adventurer’s dream, but it has become a nightmare for many people who ignored demarcated out of bounds areas and died. Howick is the hub of the Midlands and visitors can abseil alongside the cascade, down the gorge and into the pool or be more restful on the Viewing Platform. For the eager walkers there is a safe trail that descends to the riverbed or drive the 6-kilometre auto trail which hugs the valley rim.
The 656-hectare Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve winds along river frontage from the base of the Howick Falls to Otto's Bluff, Albert Falls and dam. With an environmental education centre, interesting plant life, small animals and more than 200 bird species this is a fascinating family outing. Seven kilometres from Howick at the 1618-hectare Midmar Dam Public Resort and Nature Reserve which is zoned for yachts and powerboats is the site of the Midmar Mile swim. Fly-fishing is popular and there is enough trout in the streams and dams for everybody.
Mountain-bike fanatics navigate the hills or ride it out on the horse trails. If that is not enough exercise, visit the Howick Golf Club's 18-hole, course or get competitive at the bowls, tennis and squash clubs! The Zulu- Mpophomeni Experience is rapidly emerging as a culinary favourite to experience rural and township lifestyles or visit the Howick Museum for Boer and British history.
