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Durban Destination Guide
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Introduction |
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Durban, situated in Kwa Zulu Natal on the east coast of South Africa is one of South Africa's premier holiday destinations with magnificent beaches, easy distances to Mountains and Game Parks To visit Durban's beachfront is to see its citizens at play. Early morning joggers and walkers throng to its long, wide promenade, many an office worker heads down there to shed suit and tie for a quick lunchtime surf session and young children frolic in the shorebreak.
A short drive to the north lies Umhlanga, coastal playground of the jetset, with imposing mansions, great shopping, pavement cafes and an addictively cool, laidback vibe.
Durban's port is Africa's busiest, and down at the restaurants at the water's edge, patrons watch as tugs, yachts and huge container ships constantly glide by, tantalisingly close. |
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Top Picks |
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* Swim with the fish or enjoy the water slides at uShaka Marine World.
* Watch Zulu dancing at the Valley of a Thousand Hills.
* Enjoy the shops and restaurants at the Heritage Market, Hillcrest.
* Stroll along Umhlanga's promenade.
* Take in the magnificent scenery of the Drakensberg Mountains.
* For a unique cultural experience, visit the 'uMlilo ka Zulu' (Circles of Fire) Cultural
Village, adjoining the Sibaya Casino Complex.
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Climate |
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| Warmed by the Indian Ocean, sub-tropical Durban sizzles in summer and has famously mild winters, but it owes its reputation as a hot spot to far more than a magnificent climate |
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Transportation |
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Flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town operate daily into Durban. Alternatively, Durban is a 6 hour drive from Johannesburg.
There are also rail and coach links to other cties. Local transport (buses and collective taxis) is cheap but private taxis or car hire is recommended for visitors. |
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Attractions |
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The world-class uShaka Marine World, in a prime spot with magnificent beach and harbour views, is a must-see, with an aquarium set within a 'shipwreck', adventure water rides and a snorkel tank.
The Valley of a Thousand Hills, a 45-minute drive from the city centre, offers great views and a taste of traditional Zulu culture, and a bit further west lies the Midlands Meander experience, an excellent arts and culture route.
Then there's the mighty Drakensberg range of mountains, home to dozens of country hotels and guest houses, and a clutch of this country's finest World Heritage Sites. |
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Entertainment |
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| Durban has a variety of museums, theatres and cinemas as well of plenty of live music venues. |
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Restaurants |
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| The city has a good selection of restaurants with cuisine from all over the world. Due to the large ethnic Indian population, curry restaurants are particularly plentiful. |
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Shopping |
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| As well as the usual modern shopping malls, the city has an Indian market and African artefacts abound. |
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Recreation |
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Paradise for surfers - but also great for golfers and sports fans (especially rugby and cricket).
Lots of hiking possibilities in the nearby Drakensberg and great walks along the coast. |
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