By Durban, South Africa: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
If you’re looking for a destination that has it all, Durban, South Africa should definitely be on your list. With its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and outdoor adventures, Durban is the perfect place for travelers of all types. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family on vacation, or a group of friends looking for some fun in the sun, Durban has something for everyone.
Top Attractions
There are plenty of things to see and do in Durban, but some of the top attractions include:
The Golden Mile
A stretch of beautiful sandy beaches that runs for four miles along the city’s coastline, the Golden Mile is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. It’s also home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
uShaka Marine World
If you’re traveling with kids (or if you’re a kid at heart), uShaka Marine World is a must-visit. This marine theme park features an aquarium, a water park, and a variety of animal encounters, making it the perfect place to learn about sea life while having fun.
Moses Mabhida Stadium
Built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Moses Mabhida Stadium is now a popular tourist attraction in its own right. Visitors can take a tour of the stadium, ride the SkyCar to the top of the arch for panoramic views of the city, or even bungee jump off the top of the stadium.
Hidden Gems
While Durban’s top attractions are certainly worth a visit, there are also plenty of hidden gems that are worth checking out:
The Durban Botanic Gardens
Located in the heart of the city, the Durban Botanic Gardens are a peaceful oasis that offer a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and admire the many different plant species, or attend one of the many events that take place there throughout the year.
The KwaZulu-Natal Society of Arts
If you’re interested in art, the KwaZulu-Natal Society of Arts is a must-visit. This gallery showcases the work of local artists and hosts a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year.
The Inanda Heritage Route
For a glimpse into Durban’s rich cultural heritage, take a trip along the Inanda Heritage Route. This route takes visitors through some of the city’s most historic and culturally significant areas, including the Ohlange Institute (where Nelson Mandela cast his first vote) and the Phoenix Settlement (established by Mahatma Gandhi).
Food Scene
Durban is a food lover’s paradise, with a vibrant food scene that reflects the city’s diverse cultural heritage. Some must-try dishes include:
Bunny Chow
A Durban specialty, bunny chow is a type of curry that’s served in a hollowed-out loaf of bread. It’s messy, but delicious!
Braai
South Africans love a good braai (barbecue), and Durban is no exception. Head to one of the city’s many braai spots for some delicious grilled meat and a cold beer.
Seafood
With its location on the coast, it’s no surprise that Durban is known for its seafood. Whether you’re in the mood for oysters, prawns, or fish and chips, you’ll find plenty of delicious options to choose from.
Budget-Friendly Tips
While Durban can be a bit pricey, there are plenty of ways to save money while still having a great time:
Take Advantage of Free Activities
There are plenty of free things to do in Durban, including visiting the beaches, taking a stroll through the Botanic Gardens, or exploring the city’s many markets and malls.
Eat Like a Local
Eating at local restaurants and cafes is not only a great way to experience Durban’s food scene, but it’s also typically much cheaper than dining at tourist spots.
Stay in Budget Accommodation
There are plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options in Durban, including hostels, guesthouses, and Airbnb rentals.
Outdoor Adventures
With its beautiful beaches and stunning natural landscapes, Durban is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some popular outdoor activities include:
Surfing
Durban’s beaches are a surfer’s paradise, with great waves and warm water year-round. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, there are plenty of spots to catch some waves.
Hiking
For a break from the beach, head inland to explore the many hiking trails that wind through Durban’s lush forests and rolling hills.
Kayaking
Explore Durban’s waterways by kayak, either on your own or on a guided tour.
Historical Landmarks
With its rich cultural heritage, Durban is home to many historical landmarks that are worth a visit:
The Old Fort
Built in the 19th century, the Old Fort is one of Durban’s oldest surviving buildings. Today, it’s home to a museum that showcases the city’s history.
The Victoria Street Market
This bustling market has been a fixture in Durban since the early 1900s, and is a great place to shop for souvenirs and sample local cuisine.
The Durban City Hall
Built in the early 1900s, the Durban City Hall is a beautiful example of Edwardian architecture. Visitors can take a tour of the building to learn about its history and admire its many ornate features.
Family-Friendly Activities
Durban is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that kids (and parents) will love:
uShaka Marine World
This marine theme park is a hit with kids of all ages, with its aquarium, water park, and animal encounters.
The Durban Botanic Gardens
The Botanic Gardens are a great place for kids to run around and explore, with plenty of space to play and a variety of plant species to learn about.
The Mini Town
A miniature replica of Durban, the Mini Town is a fun and educational experience for kids. They can learn about the city’s history and landmarks while exploring the tiny streets and buildings.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, Durban has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer:
The Karkloof Canopy Tour
For an adrenaline rush, head to the Karkloof Canopy Tour to zip-line through the forest canopy.
The Valley of 1000 Hills
Located just outside of Durban, the Valley of 1000 Hills is a beautiful area with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
The Durban Street Art Tour
Take a guided tour of Durban’s street art scene, which is home to some truly impressive murals and installations.
Natural Wonders
From its stunning coastline to its lush forests, Durban is home to many natural wonders:
The Drakensberg Mountains
Located a few hours’ drive from Durban, the Drakensberg Mountains are a hiker’s paradise, with stunning scenery and a variety of hiking trails to choose from.
The Oribi Gorge
A natural wonder that’s located just an hour’s drive from Durban, the Oribi Gorge is home to stunning cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife.
The Umgeni River Bird Park
Located in the heart of Durban, the Umgeni River Bird Park is a beautiful oasis that’s home to a variety of bird species. Visitors can take a stroll through the park and admire the many different birds, or attend one of the park’s daily bird shows.
Vibrant Nightlife
With its many bars, clubs, and music venues, Durban is the perfect destination for those who love to party:
The Florida Road Strip
This popular nightlife spot is home to a variety of bars and clubs, as well as a vibrant street scene that’s great for people-watching.
The Station Drive Precinct
A trendy area that’s home to a variety of bars, restaurants, and art galleries, the Station Drive Precinct is a great place to spend an evening.
The Bat Centre