Durban, located on South Africa’s eastern coastline, is a vibrant port city known for its golden beaches, Indian and Zulu influences, and warm subtropical climate. For those pondering things to do in Durban, catching waves or basking in the sun on the popular Golden Mile beachfront, and savoring the city’s unique culinary delights at the bustling Victoria Street Market are top recommendations.
The city’s uShaka Marine World, a world-class aquatic theme park, offers thrilling water rides, marine animal attractions, and an impressive aquarium. Nearby, the Moses Mabhida Stadium, with its iconic arch, provides panoramic views of the city and the Indian Ocean from its SkyCar or the adventurous Big Swing.
Beyond its coastal allure and urban attractions, Durban is a melting pot of cultures, evident in its festivals, music, and dance. For those seeking the best places to visit in South Africa, Durban’s blend of beach activities, cultural richness, and urban energy makes it a standout destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Durban, South Africa
1. uShaka Marine World
uShaka Marine World is a must-visit when you’re in Durban. This entertainment hub consists of a water park, an aquarium, a shopping area, and dining options. The aquarium is one of the largest in the world, offering a unique underground viewing gallery where you can get close and personal with sharks, rays, and other marine life.
Location: Situated at the end of Durban’s Golden Mile, easily accessible by car, bus, or taxi.
Scenic Spot: One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring an underground viewing gallery with sharks, rays, and other marine life.
Best Time to Visit: Morning to enjoy the attractions with fewer crowds and get a full day of fun.
Suitable for All Ages: Perfect for families, children, and adults alike. Attractions cater to all age groups, including water rides and interactive marine experiences.
Price: Entrance fees range from approximately R150-R250 ($8-$13) per person, depending on the activities selected.
Travel Tip: Arrive early to take full advantage of all the park’s offerings, and don’t forget sunscreen for a day at the water park.
2. Durban Botanic Gardens
The Durban Botanic Gardens are the oldest surviving botanic gardens in Africa, established in 1849. A visit here provides an opportunity to see an array of exotic and indigenous plants, including a variety of orchids, ferns, and cycads. The gardens also feature an Orchid House and a scenic lake that’s perfect for picnics.
Location: Centrally located on John Zikhali Road, easily reachable by car, taxi, or public transport.
Scenic Spot: Home to exotic and indigenous plants, a scenic lake, an Orchid House, and a vast collection of cycads.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat; also great during seasonal flower shows.
Suitable for All Ages: Ideal for families, couples, and seniors. The gardens have wheelchair-friendly pathways.
Price: Entry is free, but donations are encouraged.
Travel Tip: Consider visiting during one of the garden’s live music events or seasonal flower shows for an added experience.
3. Moses Mabhida Stadium
The Moses Mabhida Stadium is an architectural marvel, known for its iconic arch and panoramic views of Durban. Originally built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the stadium now hosts a variety of events and offers adventurous activities like the SkyCar and the Big Swing.
Location: Located near the beachfront, accessible by car, taxi, or Durban’s People Mover buses.
Scenic Spot: Offers panoramic city and ocean views from the SkyCar and the thrilling Big Swing experience.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
Suitable for All Ages: The SkyCar is suitable for all ages, but the Big Swing is only for thrill-seekers aged 10 and above.
Price: SkyCar costs approximately R60-R100 ($3-$5); Big Swing costs around R700 ($37).
Travel Tip: For the best views, take a ride in the SkyCar to the top of the arch early in the morning or late afternoon when the light is perfect for photography.
4. Golden Mile Beachfront
Golden Mile is a stretch of beachfront that offers a scenic promenade, high-rise hotels, and plenty of restaurants and shops. The area is particularly popular for surfing, jogging, and people-watching. It’s the perfect place to spend a relaxed day by the sea.
Location: Stretches along Durban’s coastline, accessible by foot, car, bicycle, or public transport.
Scenic Spot: A long sandy beach with a promenade, offering stunning ocean views, palm trees, and a lively atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for peaceful walks or late afternoon to watch the sunset.
Suitable for All Ages: Perfect for families, couples, solo travelers, and elderly visitors.
Price: Free to visit, but beach activities like surfboard rentals and bike hire may have extra costs.
Travel Tip: The beach can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so consider visiting on a weekday for a more peaceful experience.
5. Umgeni River Bird Park
Situated on the banks of the Umgeni River, this bird park houses an impressive collection of over 800 birds from around the world. With its lush tropical landscaping and waterfalls, it provides a unique setting for bird-watching. Don’t miss the free-flight bird show, a hit among visitors of all ages.
Location: Situated on Riverside Road near the Umgeni River, accessible by car or taxi.
Scenic Spot: Home to over 800 birds, tropical gardens, and waterfalls.
Best Time to Visit: Late morning or early afternoon to see the free-flight bird show.
Suitable for All Ages: Great for families and bird lovers of all ages. Some pathways may be challenging for strollers or wheelchairs.
Price: Entry costs approximately R50-R70 ($3-$4) per person.
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as the park involves some walking on hilly terrain.
6. The Victoria Street Market
The Victoria Street Market is a bustling bazaar offering a range of goods, from spices and fresh produce to arts and crafts. The market is a great place to immerse yourself in Durban’s multicultural atmosphere and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs.
Location: Located in Durban’s city center, accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
Scenic Spot: A vibrant bazaar filled with spices, textiles, souvenirs, and African crafts.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for a quieter experience or weekends for a lively atmosphere.
Suitable for All Ages: Best suited for adults and older children interested in shopping and cultural experiences.
Price: Free to visit, but bargaining is common for purchases.
Travel Tip: Bargaining is expected, especially for non-food items, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices.
7. Durban Natural Science Museum
Located in Durban’s City Hall, the Natural Science Museum is home to an array of fascinating exhibits, including a life-size T-Rex model. The museum offers insightful information about South African and world history, geology, and natural science.
Location: Inside Durban City Hall, easily reachable by car, taxi, or public transport.
Scenic Spot: Features a life-size T-Rex model, fascinating historical exhibits, and insights into South African wildlife.
Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Ideal for families, school groups, and history lovers of all ages.
Price: Entry is free, but donations are welcomed.
Travel Tip: Admission is usually free, but donations are encouraged to support this educational institution.
8. Suncoast Casino
If you’re feeling lucky or simply want a night out, the Suncoast Casino offers a glamorous setting with a variety of games, restaurants, and even a private beach. The complex often hosts live entertainment, making it more than just a gaming venue.
Location: Along the Golden Mile, easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
Scenic Spot: A glamorous casino complex with restaurants, a private beach, and live entertainment.
Best Time to Visit: Evenings for a lively atmosphere or weekends for live performances.
Suitable for All Ages: The casino is for adults 18+, but families can enjoy restaurants and entertainment areas.
Price: Free entry, but gaming and dining costs vary.
Travel Tip: Keep an eye on your budget and remember that casinos are for entertainment; it’s not a guarantee to win money.
9. Mitchell Park Zoo
Originally an ostrich farm, Mitchell Park Zoo is now home to a variety of animals, including antelopes, monkeys, and birds. It’s a great place for a family outing, complete with a playground and picnic spots.
Location: Situated in Morningside, Durban, accessible by car or taxi.
Scenic Spot: A small but charming zoo with animals like antelopes, monkeys, and birds.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
Suitable for All Ages: Great for families with young children, as it has a playground and picnic areas.
Price: Entry costs around R20-R40 ($1-$2).
Travel Tip: It’s a relatively small zoo, so a couple of hours should suffice for your visit.
10. Wilson’s Wharf
For a scenic and leisurely outing, Wilson’s Wharf offers an array of dining options with a view. Situated in Durban’s harbor, the area provides stunning vistas, especially at sunset. It’s a great place to enjoy some seafood while watching the boats go by.
Location: Situated along Durban’s harbor, easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus.
Scenic Spot: A scenic waterfront area with restaurants, boat tours, and stunning sunset views.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for a relaxing dinner with a view or weekends for live music.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, from couples to families and elderly visitors.
Price: Free to visit, but dining and boat tours have additional costs.
Travel Tip: Weekends often feature live music; make a reservation if you’re planning on dining during peak times.
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Durban, South Africa: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Durban: 8/10 – Durban is very family-friendly, offering numerous activities for children such as uShaka Marine World, which includes an aquarium, water park, and a dolphinarium. The Durban Botanic Gardens, Umgeni River Bird Park, and various beaches like Umhlanga Rocks provide additional entertainment for kids.
Nightlife in Durban: 7/10 – Nightlife in Durban is lively and diverse, with a range of options including bars, nightclubs, and beachfront venues. Popular areas like Florida Road and the Golden Mile offer a vibrant nightlife scene, catering to different tastes from trendy clubs to laid-back lounges.
Sport in Durban: 9/10 – Durban offers a variety of sports activities, particularly water sports such as surfing, swimming, and kitesurfing. The city is also home to the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium, which hosts football and other events. Additionally, Durban provides excellent opportunities for running, cycling, and golfing, with many sports facilities and parks available.
Culture and Attractions in Durban: 7/10 – Durban has a rich cultural heritage with attractions like the KwaMuhle Museum, the Phansi Museum, and the Durban Art Gallery. The city’s diverse cultural scene is influenced by its Zulu, Indian, and colonial history, and it hosts various cultural festivals and events throughout the year.
Gastronomy in Durban: 8/10 – The gastronomic scene in Durban is exceptional, known for its Indian-influenced cuisine, particularly the famous Bunny Chow. The city offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional South African dishes to international cuisine, with numerous high-quality restaurants and street food vendors.
Shopping in Durban: 7/10 – Shopping in Durban includes modern shopping centers like Gateway Theatre of Shopping and Pavilion Shopping Centre, as well as local markets and artisan shops. Visitors can find a variety of goods, from luxury items to unique local crafts and souvenirs, providing a well-rounded shopping experience.
Prices in Durban: 8/10 – Durban is an affordable destination, offering good value for accommodation, dining, and activities. It is generally more affordable than Cape Town and Johannesburg, making it accessible for budget-conscious travelers while still providing a rich experience.
Average price for a hotel night: $90
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: $10
Price of a beer: $2.50
Price of a coffee: $1.50
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Durban, South Africa
For those looking to explore beyond Durban’s golden beaches and vibrant street markets, top day trips near Durban provide a chance to immerse in the natural beauty and cultural diversity of KwaZulu-Natal. The rolling hills of the Valley of a Thousand Hills and the wildlife-rich Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park are just a drive away, offering adventures that contrast with the city’s bustling atmosphere.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Durban accommodations offer a variety from beachfront hotels offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean to charming B&Bs nestled in the city’s heart, ensuring a memorable stay in South Africa’s coastal gem.
FAQ About Things to Do in Durban, South Africa
What are the top attractions in Durban?
Some of the top attractions in Durban include the Golden Mile beachfront, uShaka Marine World, Durban Botanic Gardens, and the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Is it worth visiting the Durban Botanic Gardens?
Absolutely! The Durban Botanic Gardens is the oldest surviving botanic garden in Africa and is home to a vast collection of plants from around the world, including a famous collection of orchids.
Can I experience the Zulu culture in Durban?
Yes, Durban and its surrounding areas offer several cultural villages and tours where you can experience traditional Zulu culture, dance, and cuisine.
Are there any water activities available in Durban?
Certainly! Durban’s Golden Mile beachfront offers a range of water activities including surfing, jet skiing, and boat tours. Plus, uShaka Marine World provides a unique marine experience with its aquarium and water park.
What nightlife options does Durban offer?
Durban boasts a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues, especially in areas like Florida Road and Umhlanga.
Where can I get the best views of Durban?
For panoramic views of Durban, you can take the SkyCar or adventure walk to the top of the Moses Mabhida Stadium. The view from there captures the city, sea, and surroundings beautifully.
Is the Indian Quarter worth a visit?
Yes! Durban has a significant Indian community, and a visit to the Indian Quarter offers a taste of Indian culture, cuisine, and unique architecture. Don’t forget to try a Durban bunny chow while you’re there!
Are there any local festivals or events I should look out for in Durban?
Durban hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Durban July, a prestigious horse racing event, and the Durban International Film Festival. Check the local calendar during your visit.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durban
https://www.getyourguide.com/durban-l168
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