Durban Things To Do

Beaches
On the shores of the Indian Ocean, the principle city of the KwaZulu-Natal province is a Mecca for surfers. A holiday in Durban is the perfect destination, if you’re looking to work on your tan. Along the city’s golden Mile run four superb sandy beaches – Addington, South, North and Battery. South beach is the closest to the Business District, and the busiest. You’ll find plenty here to occupy the kids, including children’s amusement area, Seaworld aquarium and dolphinarium.

Water Sports
Ideal conditions make a Durban holiday the favourite choice for enthusiasts wishing to ride the waves or enjoy the wide range of water sports on offer – sailing, windsurfing and scuba-diving. Thanks to the long rolling waves and comfortable sea temperatures, North Beach is a haven for both surfers and swimmers alike. Divers frequently spot sailfish, marlin, stingrays and dolphins along this coast. If you’re lucky you may even catch sight of a migrating whale from the shore at Hermanus.

Fishing
If you’re a keen angler, a holiday in Durban will provide plenty of opportunities for catching all types of fish. The best season for rock and surf fishing along the Natal coast is June to September, when sardine shoals attract shark, barracuda, kingfish and shad. Inland rivers and lakes offer the chance to catch trout, bass and carp.

Harbour
Head down to the bustling harbour to experience the hub of this cosmopolitan city. Soak up the atmosphere at one of the lively waterside bars and cafes along Wilson’s Wharf or sample Durban’s uniquely ethnic cuisine in the tempting international restaurants. Take in the view, catch a harbour tour or sea cruise from Victoria Embankment or watch the huge cargo ships unload in largest port in Africa.

Cultural Trips
Any Durban holiday should include a day wandering around the Business District admiring the elegant Colonial architecture. City Hall houses a fascinating Art Gallery and Natural Science museum, while the Natal Playhouse stages all manner of performing arts. Immerse yourself in the strong Asian influence that pervades the city. 

Shopping
In the heart of the Indian District, Grey Street offers exotic exploration. Head into the arcades of the Juma Mosque, the biggest in the Southern Hemisphere, for eastern delicacies, jewellery, saris and European fashions. The colourful Indian market sells all kinds of souvenirs from fiery curry spices to woodcarvings and Hindu pictures.

Parks
If you love plants, a holiday to Durban gives you the chance to enjoy the city’s numerous parks, including the formal Japanese Gardens, Jameson Park and the Botanic Gardens in Sydenham Road.

Excursions
It’s well worth taking a few days during your Durban holiday to explore the surrounding KwaZulu-Natal province. Visit the historic Zululand battlefields and relive the 1879 Zulu-British conflict at Isandhlwana, Rorke’s Drift and Ulundi. Tour the townships and gain a taste of tribal life, dances and cuisine with a ‘Kraal Experience’. Don’t miss the hiking and nature trails through the stunning Royal Natal Park and climbers can enjoy spectacular views from Mont-Aux-Sources (3,282m), the highest peak of the dramatic Drakensberg Mountains. Spot rhino, elephant, leopard, cape buffalo and lion at the largest reserve in the area, the Hluhluwe-Umfolozio Park.