Things To Do
in Durban
Durban is a vibrant coastal city in South Africa known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural diversity, and warm subtropical climate. It serves as a major port city and a hub for tourism and commerce. The city boasts a unique blend of Zulu, Indian, and colonial influences, which is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and local customs.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, from stunning natural landscapes to bustling markets and a thriving nightlife.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the uShaka Marine World, where you can explore the aquarium and enjoy the water park. Afterward, take a stroll along the Golden Mile beach promenade.
Visit the Victoria Street Market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for local crafts and spices. Grab lunch at one of the local eateries offering traditional South African dishes.
Dine at a beachfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach or explore the nightlife at a local bar.
Head to the Durban Botanic Gardens to admire the stunning flora and fauna. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the gardens.
Explore the KwaMuhle Museum, which showcases the city’s history and the impact of apartheid. Afterward, visit the nearby Moses Mabhida Stadium, where you can take a skycar ride to the top for panoramic views.
Enjoy dinner at a local Indian restaurant, sampling Durban’s famous bunny chow. Conclude your day with a visit to the cultural precinct of Florida Road, known for its lively bars and eateries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $15 |
| 🏨Hotel night (3-star) | $60 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (within city) | $10 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $1 |
| ☕Coffee | $3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and warm climate year-round.
- Rich cultural diversity with a variety of food options.
- Vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene.
- Certain areas may have safety concerns.
- Public transport can be limited in some areas.
- Humidity during summer can be uncomfortable for some.
- "Ngiyaphila" - I am fine.
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you.
- "Hamba kahle" - Go well.
- "Uthanda ukuthini?" - What do you like?
Places to Visit in Durban
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic structure with a beautiful arch, perfect for capturing both architectural shots and panoramic views of the city.
A scenic beachfront area ideal for sunset photography, showcasing the ocean, beaches, and vibrant atmosphere.
A lush garden filled with exotic plants and flowers, offering stunning opportunities for nature photography.
Food in Durban
Durban Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry, originally from the Indian community.
Must-Try!
A rich and flavorful curry that incorporates vibrant spices and can be made with various meats or vegetables.
Dried cured meat, similar to jerky, often made from beef or game.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a variety of spices, fresh produce, and street food, perfect for tasting local flavors.
Known for its street food vendors serving up delicious Indian snacks and fast food to enjoy on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is a common form of greeting, often followed by asking about one's well-being.
In many cultures represented in Durban, showing respect to elders is important; greetings should be directed to them first.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting cultural and religious sites; beachwear should be limited to the beach.
Safety
Tipping in Durban
Ensure a smooth experience
A gratuity of around 10-15% is customary in restaurants and bars, while rounding up the fare is appreciated in taxis.
Major credit cards are widely accepted, and cash is still commonly used, particularly for small purchases and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot and humid weather ideal for beach activities. Rainfall can occur, so pack a light rain jacket.
Temperatures are milder, making it a pleasant time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Rainfall decreases significantly.
Winter is mild and dry, with cool evenings. This is a great time for hiking and outdoor exploration.
Spring brings warmer temperatures and blooming flowers, perfect for visiting gardens and outdoor attractions.
Durban at Night
Hiking in Durban
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic reserve offering various hiking trails through lush vegetation and opportunities to see local wildlife.
Located just outside Durban, this reserve features trails that wind through indigenous forests and along the river, providing a peaceful escape from the city.
Airports
How to reach Durban by plane.
Located approximately 35 km north of Durban, this is the primary airport serving the city, offering both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Zulu people are the largest ethnic group in Durban, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Durban has a significant Indian population, contributing to the city’s vibrant culture and culinary scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a passion in Durban, with local teams drawing large crowds, especially during the rugby season.
Soccer is immensely popular, with several teams representing the city in leagues, and matches are significant events for locals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Durban.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, especially Indian eateries.
Durban has a significant Muslim population, so you can find many halal-certified restaurants.