Empangeni

Empangeni

Empangeni is situated 150m above sea level in the heart of sugar cane country.  The subtropical climate makes Empangeni a perfect all year round holiday destination.

Despite being a developing modern town, Empangeni has managed to maintain its original small town charm.  Visitors can expect to be treated to warm friendly  hospitality that is synonymous with Zululand.

The local museum offers visitors a look at the history of the sugar pioneers who forged the path of development in Empangeni with the opening of the mill in 1911.  Other exhibits include Zulu cultural and contemporary art displays, including the Mthethwa collection.

With true Zululand flair, the arts and crafts centre, a community upliftment project allows visitors to witness firsthand the making of authentic Zulu crafts, taste traditional Zulu cuisine and purchase charming Zulu mementoes.

Sporting enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf on the spectacular 18-hole golf course, challenge the local talent to a game of squash and cool down in the Olympic size public swimming pool.

It’s a place where old and new harmoniously converge in history, architecture, cultural pursuits and the essence of its people.

Empangeni was established as a Norwegian Mission in 1841 and has flourished to become the commercial centre of the City of uMhlathuze.  Today, Empangeni is regarded as an important retail and service centre for the surrounding areas as well as the agricultural hub for sugar, cotton, timber and cattle-farming in the Zululand region.

According to folklore, the name ‘Empangeni’ was derived from the Zulu word ‘panga’ (grab) because of the many crocodile attacks on water bearers and visitors to the nearby crocodile-infested stream of Mpangeni.

Firmly positioned as the gateway of Zululand’s battlefields, beaches and game reserves, Empangeni offers a myriad of things to do and places to see, whatever your taste, inclination or budget.
For some night-time excitement, visit the local Tusk Umfolozi Casino with its 300 slot-machines, 10 gaming tables and sophisticated restaurant.

Empangeni is also the region’s craft mecca – be sure to visit the Empangeni Art and Cultural Museum and the adjacent Art and Craft market for some exquisite, hand-crafted beadwork, pottery or weaving to take home as reminder of Zululand and its rich cultural heritage.

With its original small town charm, visitors to Empangeni can expect to be treated with warm and friendly hospitality that is synonymous with Zululand.