Visit Mpophomeni township outside Howick and partake in activities traditional and modern that are intrinsically part of Zulu culture. Or plan a visit to the city during the annual Umphithi Music Festival in September that showcases resident and national talent. Consider a tour of Edendale, Imbali or Sobantu for a unique perspective on life in some of South Africa's most colourful townships.
In Imbali
For a shebeen experience, drop in at My Sistas (Unit 13), Sophie's Tavern (Stage 1), or Rovers Tavern (J15); watch sangomas in training in Unit 14; visit the Manaye Hall in Stage 1 where Nelson Mandela made his last speech as a free man before being imprisoned in 1961; pay your respects at the Stage 2 monument that commemorates all the fallen in the
political struggle.
In Sobantu
The first township to rebel against 'Bantu Education'; watch Zulu dancing at Nomhle Dlamini's Place that also serves traditional beer and food.
In Edendale
Visit the Georgetown project where efforts are underway to restore the historic mud brick dwellings. 

Visit the Msunduzi Museum Complex for a retrospective look at the life and times of the pioneers who settled the city 160 years ago. Attend a 'wildsfees' which literally translates to a venison feast or inspect the city's oldest oven in the house occupied by the widow of Boer leader Piet Retief, now the premises of legal firm of Hathorne and Cameron. Of course no South African visit is complete without enjoying a traditional 'Braaivleis' . Complete with Boerewors, Stywe Pap and Bredie, this popular and social 'ritual' has today been adopted by most cultures. Don't forget the local beers or the brandewyn. 

Attend a religious ceremony in any of the Hindu temples or Islamic mosques; stroll through the Debi market, often described as the New Delhi of Pietermaritzburg, to buy fresh vegetables and sample the cuisine. Visit the lower end of the city and the Failsworth Road area for a remarkable shopping experience, be it for clothes, jewellery, or footwear; taste the delectable vegetarian fare from Kara Nichhas; and feast your eyes on the exquisite Gita Mandir temple. 

Pack a picnic basket and head for the stunning Botanical Gardens. View some of the wonderful Victorian and Edwardian edifices, not only in the CBD but also in the upper west part of the city; attend a race day at Scottsville, one of the country's finest racecourses; enjoy a cuppa tea and cream scones at the butterfly farm.