Durban, South Africa’s third-largest city, is a vibrant coastal metropolis where African, Indian, and colonial influences blend to create a unique cultural tapestry. Nestled along the warm waters of the Indian Ocean in KwaZulu-Natal province, this bustling port city offers visitors an enticing mix of golden beaches, year-round subtropical climate, rich cultural diversity, and exciting urban adventures. Unlike Cape Town or Johannesburg, Durban retains a more relaxed atmosphere despite its size, with a distinctive character shaped by its significant Indian population (the largest outside India) and proud Zulu heritage.

From the sun-soaked beaches of the Golden Mile to the bustling Victoria Street Market, from sophisticated restaurants to authentic bunny chow stalls, Durban provides travellers with a multifaceted South African experience that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality.

When to Visit Durban

Best Time to Visit

Durban enjoys a humid subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it a popular destination during all seasons. The best time to visit is during the autumn (April-May) and spring (September-November) months when temperatures are pleasant, humidity is lower, and rainfall is minimal.

Seasonal Breakdown

• Summer (December-February): Hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 23-32°C (73-90°F). This is Durban’s rainy season with afternoon thunderstorms common. It’s also the peak domestic tourist season, especially during December holidays, with crowded beaches and higher accommodation prices.
• Autumn (March-May): Pleasantly warm days (20-27°C/68-81°F) and mild evenings with decreasing humidity and rainfall. This is an excellent time to visit with fewer crowds and good swimming conditions.
• Winter (June-August): Mild and dry with daytime temperatures between 17-24°C (63-75°F) and cooler evenings. The sea remains warm enough for swimming (around 21°C/70°F). This period offers clear, sunny days perfect for outdoor activities.
• Spring (September-November): Warming temperatures between 18-26°C (64-79°F) with occasional rainfall. Another ideal time to visit with smaller crowds and blooming jacaranda trees adding purple hues to the cityscape.

Annual Events Worth Planning Around in Durban

• Durban July Horse Race (July): South Africa’s premier horse racing event and major social occasion.
• Essence Festival Durban (September/October): Music and cultural festival inspired by the New Orleans event.
• Durban International Film Festival (July): Africa’s leading film festival.
• Comrades Marathon (June): The world’s oldest and largest ultramarathon race between Durban and Pietermaritzburg.
• Diwali/Festival of Lights (October/November): Vibrant celebrations in the Indian community.
• Sardine Run (June/July): Natural phenomenon where millions of sardines migrate along the coast.

How to Get to Durban

By Air

• King Shaka International Airport (DUR): Located approximately 35km north of the city centre.
  • Direct flights from Johannesburg, Cape Town, and other South African cities.
  • International connections from Dubai, Doha, Istanbul, Addis Ababa, and various African cities.
  • Airlines serving Durban include South African Airways, British Airways (Comair), FlySafair, Airlink, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Ethiopian Airlines.

By Land

• By Road: Excellent highway connections to other major cities.
  • From Johannesburg: N3 highway (approximately 6 hours).
  • From Cape Town: N2 coastal highway (approximately 16 hours, often broken into stages).
• By Bus: Intercity bus services including Greyhound, Intercape, and Citiliner connect Durban to major South African cities.
• By Train: Limited passenger rail service operates between Johannesburg and Durban via the Shosholoza Meyl service (13-14 hours).

Getting Around Durban

• Uber and Bolt: Widely available ride-hailing services and the safest option for tourists.
• Metered Taxis: Available but ensure they use meters or negotiate fares beforehand.
• Minibus Taxis: The main public transport used by locals, inexpensive but often crowded.
• People Mover Bus: Municipal bus service covering the central business district and beachfront.
• Durban Rickshaws: Colorful, traditional transport along the beachfront, now primarily a tourist attraction.
• Car Rental: Multiple agencies at the airport and city center for self-driving (drive on the left).
• Durban Metrorail: Commuter train service connecting suburbs and nearby towns.

Top Attractions and Things to Do in Durban

Beaches and Waterfront

1. Golden Mile: Durban’s iconic beachfront promenade stretching from uShaka Marine World to the Suncoast Casino.
2. North Beach and South Beach: Popular swimming beaches with shark nets and lifeguards.
3. uShaka Marine World: Africa’s largest marine theme park combining an aquarium, water park, and shopping complex.
4. Point Waterfront: Developing harbor district with upscale restaurants and accommodation.
5. Umhlanga Beaches: Upmarket coastal resort area with pristine beaches and coastal walking trails.
6. Vetch’s Pier: Popular snorkeling spot with diverse marine life.

Cultural Attractions in Durban

1. Moses Mabhida Stadium: Iconic 2010 World Cup venue offering the Big Rush Big Swing and SkyCar for panoramic city views.
2. Victoria Street Market: Vibrant market blending Indian and African influences with spices, crafts, fabrics, and food.
3. Phansi Museum: Outstanding collection of Southern African artifacts and traditional arts.
4. KwaMuhle Museum: Chronicles the history of apartheid in Durban.
5. Inanda Heritage Route: Sites connected to Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela.
6. Ohlange Institute: Where Nelson Mandela cast his first democratic vote.
7. Durban City Hall: Colonial-era building housing the Natural Science Museum and Durban Art Gallery.

Top Parks and Gardens in Durban

1. Durban Botanic Gardens: Africa’s oldest botanic gardens, known for orchid and cycad collections.
2. Mitchell Park: Family-friendly park with zoo, playground, and popular tea garden.
3. Jameson Park: Beautiful rose garden with over 600 rose varieties.
4. Japanese Gardens: Tranquil garden with koi ponds and Japanese design elements.
5. Umgeni River Bird Park: Showcasing over 200 bird species in a lush setting.

Nature and Wildlife in Durban

1. Valley of a Thousand Hills: Scenic landscape with traditional Zulu villages and adventure activities.
2. Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve: Coastal forest, wetland, and beach ecosystem.
3. Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve: Urban wildlife reserve with small game viewing opportunities.
4. Phezulu Safari Park: Reptile park, crocodile farm, and cultural village.
5. Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve: Protected coastal ecosystem with boardwalks.

Day Experiences

1. Surfing Lessons: Durban is renowned for its surf culture.
2. Durban Rickshaw Ride: Colorful, traditional transport along the beachfront.
3. Spice Tours: Explore the Indian influence on Durban’s cuisine.
4. Township Tours: Cultural experiences in Umlazi or KwaMashu.
5. Harbor Cruises: Boat trips offering perspectives of the city from the water.
6. Moses Mabhida Stadium Swing: One of the world’s tallest swings.
7. Victoria Street Market Shopping: Vibrant market for handicrafts and spices.

Where to Stay in Durban

Luxury hotels in Durban

• Oyster Box Hotel (Umhlanga): Iconic 5-star beachfront property with colonial charm.
• Beverly Hills Hotel (Umhlanga): Upscale hotel with ocean views.
• Hilton Durban: Central location near the ICC.
• Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani: Beachfront towers with multiple facilities.
• Durban Manor Hotel and Conference Centre: Historic building with period features.

Mid-Range hotels in Durban

• Blue Waters Hotel: Beachfront hotel with sea views.
• The Benjamin Hotel: Boutique accommodation in Morningside.
• Garden Court Marine Parade: Reliable chain hotel on the beachfront.
• Quarters Hotel: Converted Victorian homes in Florida Road.
• Endless Horizons Boutique Hotel: Hillside property with panoramic views.

Budget accommodation in Durban

• Curiocity Durban: Stylish hostel in a heritage building.
• Tekweni Backpackers: Popular backpacker hostel with tours.
• Road Lodge Durban: Affordable chain hotel.
• Durban Backpackers: Casual accommodation in Berea.
• Pavilion Hotel: Budget option on the beachfront.

Best Areas

• North Beach/Golden Mile: Central beachfront location ideal for tourists.
• Umhlanga: Upmarket coastal suburb with beaches and restaurants.
• Berea and Morningside: Residential areas with colonial architecture.
• Florida Road: Vibrant street with restaurants, bars, and boutique hotels.
• Glenwood: Trendy neighborhood with cafes and artistic vibe.
• Point Waterfront: Developing harbor area with modern accommodation.

Food and Dining in Durban

Local Specialties

• Bunny Chow: Durban’s iconic dish – a hollowed-out bread loaf filled with curry.
• Durban Curry: Distinctively hot and aromatic style influenced by Indian cuisine.
• Samoosas: Triangular pastries with savory fillings.
• Biltong: South African dried, cured meat.
• Boerewors: Traditional spiced sausage.
• Fresh Seafood: Particularly shrimp and linefish.
• Roti and Biryani: Influenced by the Indian community.

Top Restaurants in Durban

1. Mali’s Indian Restaurant: Authentic Indian cuisine with vegetarian options.
2. Cargo Hold: Unique dining inside a replica ship at uShaka Marine World.
3. The Grill Room at Oyster Box Hotel: Fine dining with ocean views.
4. House of Curries: Casual restaurant famous for its bunny chow.
5. Little India: Authentic North and South Indian cuisine.
6. The Ocean Terrace: Seafood and grills with colonial ambience.
7. 9th Avenue Bistro: Creative fine dining with local ingredients.
8. Afro’s Chicken: Popular local chain for flame-grilled chicken.
9. Freedom Café: Trendy café in a repurposed shipping container.

Markets and Street Food in Durban

• Victoria Street Market: Food stalls offering Indian and African dishes.
• Warwick Junction Markets: Collection of nine distinct markets.
• Morning Trade Market: Sunday market with artisanal foods.
• Shongweni Farmers Market: Saturday market for fresh produce.
• I Heart Market: Monthly craft and food market.
• Food Trucks at North Beach: Variety of casual eats along the promenade.

Nightlife and Entertainment

• Florida Road: Strip of restaurants, bars, and clubs.
• Helen Joseph Road (formerly Davenport Road): Popular nightlife area.
• Suncoast Casino: Entertainment complex with dining, cinema, and gaming.
• Moyo uShaka: African-themed restaurant with live music.
• Chairman Jazz Club: Sophisticated jazz venue.
• Unity Bar and Brasserie: Craft beer and live music.
• Lucky Shaker: Creative cocktail bar.

Day Trips and Nearby Attractions

Valley of a Thousand Hills

Located 30-45 minutes inland from Durban, this scenic area offers authentic Zulu cultural experiences, PheZulu Safari Park, viewing platforms overlooking spectacular landscapes, and adventure activities including zip-lining and rafting.

The Midlands Meander

A scenic route through the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands (1-2 hours from Durban) with artisanal food producers, craft shops, breweries, cheese makers, and beautiful countryside. Don’t miss the Nelson Mandela Capture Site with its remarkable sculpture.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, about 3 hours north of Durban. This diverse ecosystem includes beaches, coral reefs, lakes, wetlands, woodlands, and wildlife including hippos, crocodiles, and turtles (which nest on the beaches from November to January).

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

The oldest nature reserve in Africa (3 hours from Durban), offering excellent chances to see the Big Five and famous for its rhino conservation efforts.

The Drakensberg Mountains

Spectacular mountain range 2-3 hours from Durban with hiking trails, San rock art, and outdoor adventures. Major areas include Royal Natal National Park, Cathedral Peak, and Champagne Valley.

The South Coast

String of beach towns and holiday resorts extending south of Durban, known for beach activities, golf courses, and seasonal whale watching.

Oribi Gorge

Dramatic river canyon about 2 hours south of Durban offering hiking, abseiling, and the world’s highest gorge swing.

Practical Information for first time visitors in Durban

Currency

• South African Rand (ZAR)
• ATMs widely available in shopping centers and along major streets
• Major credit cards accepted in most establishments
• Tipping (10-15%) is customary in restaurants and for services

Language

• English is widely spoken and understood
• Zulu is the predominant local language
• Some Hindi and Tamil spoken in the Indian community
• Afrikaans understood by many

Safety Tips

• Stick to tourist areas, especially after dark
• Avoid displaying valuables or large amounts of cash
• Use hotel safes for passports and excess valuables
• Take metered taxis or Uber rather than walking at night
• Be vigilant on beaches; swim on guarded beaches between flags
• The beachfront and main tourist areas have visible security presence

Health

• Public hospitals provide adequate care; private hospitals are excellent
• Pharmacies are well-stocked and pharmacists knowledgeable
• Tap water is safe to drink
• Use sunscreen liberally; Durban’s UV index is often extreme
• Malaria is not present in Durban but may be a concern for travel to northern KwaZulu-Natal

Electricity

• 220-240V, 50Hz
• South African three-pin sockets (Type M)
• Adapters available at most major hotels and electronics stores

Business Hours

• Shops: Generally 9:00-18:00 Monday-Friday, 9:00-17:00 Saturday, 9:00-13:00 Sunday
• Shopping malls: 9:00-19:00 daily
• Banks: 9:00-15:30 Monday-Friday, 9:00-11:00 Saturday
• Restaurants: Lunch 12:00-15:00, Dinner 18:00-22:00

Wi-Fi and Connectivity

• Free Wi-Fi available in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants
• Prepaid SIM cards readily available with ID and proof of address
• Good mobile coverage throughout the city and surrounding areas

Cultural Customs and Etiquette in Durban

• Greeting people with a handshake is standard practice.
• South Africans tend to be friendly and direct in conversation.
• When visiting markets, polite bargaining is acceptable but not aggressive haggling.
• Modest dress is appropriate when visiting religious sites, including Hindu temples.
• In Zulu culture, showing respect to elders is important.
• If invited to a home, bringing a small gift such as wine or chocolates is appreciated.
• Tipping service workers (10-15%) is customary and an important part of their income.
• When photographing people, especially in cultural villages or townships, ask permission first.
• South Africans often refer to traffic lights as “robots.”

Sustainable Tourism Tips

• Support community tourism initiatives, particularly in township areas.
• Choose eco-friendly accommodations that practice water conservation.
• Durban experiences water scarcity; be mindful of water usage.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen when swimming in the ocean.
• Participate in beach clean-ups, which are regularly organized along the Golden Mile.
• Purchase crafts directly from artisans when possible.
• Use reusable water bottles; tap water is safe to drink.
• Consider carbon offset programs when flying to Durban.
• Respect marine life during ocean activities.
• Support restaurants that source ingredients locally.

Events and Festivals in Durban

• Comrades Marathon (June): World-famous ultramarathon between Durban and Pietermaritzburg.
• Durban July Horse Race (July): Premier horse racing event and fashion showcase.
• Sardine Run (June/July): Natural phenomenon and festival atmosphere as millions of sardines migrate along the coast.
• Essence Festival Durban (September/October): Music, culture, and empowerment event.
• Durban International Film Festival (July): Showcasing global and African cinema.
• Juma Musjid Eid Festival: Celebrations at Africa’s largest mosque.
• Diwali Festival (October/November): Hindu festival of lights with significant celebrations.
• Durban Street Food Festival (Various dates): Celebrating the city’s diverse cuisine.
• Ugu Jazz Festival (June): South Coast music event.
• Amashova Cycling Classic (October): Major cycling event from Pietermaritzburg to Durban.

Shopping Guide for Durban

Traditional Crafts and Souvenirs

• Zulu Beadwork: Colorful jewelry and decorative items.
• Wood Carvings: Traditional sculptures and utensils.
• Shweshwe Fabric: Distinctive patterned cotton textiles.
• Spices: Durban curry blends and masalas.
• Tea: South African rooibos and specialty blends.
• Handwoven Baskets: Traditional ilala palm crafts.

Shopping Districts and Markets

• Victoria Street Market: Indian-influenced market with spices, fabrics, crafts.
• Gateway Theatre of Shopping (Umhlanga): One of the largest malls in the Southern Hemisphere.
• The Pavilion: Major shopping mall in Westville.
• Florida Road: Boutique shops and art galleries.
• Warwick Junction Markets: Collection of nine distinct markets.
• Shongweni Farmers Market: Artisanal foods and handcrafted goods.
• I Heart Market: Monthly craft market at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
• African Art Centre: Ethical source for quality indigenous arts and crafts.

Specialized Interests in Durban

For Families

• uShaka Marine World: Aquarium, water park, and entertainment complex.
  • Mini Town: Miniature replica of Durban.
• Mitchell Park Zoo: Small zoo ideal for children.
• North Beach: Family-friendly beach with protected swimming areas.
• Funworld: Amusement park on the beachfront.
• Flag Animal Farm: Interactive animal experiences.

For Adventure Seekers

• Big Rush Big Swing at Moses Mabhida Stadium: World’s tallest stadium swing.
• Surfing at North Beach and New Pier.
• Scuba Diving at Aliwal Shoal and Sodwana Bay.
• Shark Cage Diving at Aliwal Shoal.
• Skydiving with Skydive Durban.
• Mountain Biking in Giba Gorge.

For History Buffs

• KwaMuhle Museum: Apartheid history.
• Old Court House Museum: Colonial history.
• Inanda Heritage Route: Sites connected to Gandhi and Mandela.
• Old Fort: British military installation.
• Durban Local History Museums: Network of heritage sites.
• Heritage Walking Tours: Through the city centre.

For Nature Lovers

• Durban Botanic Gardens: Oldest botanic garden in Africa.
• Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve: Urban wildlife.
• Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve: Coastal ecosystem.
• Paradise Valley Nature Reserve: Forest hiking.
• Hawaan Forest: Ancient coastal forest.
• Birdwatching at Umgeni River Bird Park and Pigeon Valley.

Suggested Itineraries in Durban

One Day in Durban

• Morning: Golden Mile promenade walk and beach time
• Lunch: Try a bunny chow at a local eatery
• Afternoon: uShaka Marine World
• Evening: Dinner along Florida Road

Three Days in Durban

• Day 1: Beaches and waterfront (Golden Mile, Moses Mabhida Stadium, uShaka Marine World)
• Day 2: Cultural experiences (Victoria Street Market, Inanda Heritage Route, Durban Botanic Gardens)
• Day 3: Day trip to Valley of a Thousand Hills or the South Coast

One Week in Durban and Surroundings

• Days 1-2: Durban city highlights
• Days 3-4: Beach relaxation and water activities
• Day 5: Day trip to the Midlands Meander
• Days 6-7: Safari experience at Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park or exploration of iSimangaliso Wetland Park