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Durban, South Africa - Things to Do in Durban

Durban

Durban, South Africa - Complete Travel Guide

Durban, South Africa's third-largest city, is a busy coastal metropolis that perfectly blends African, Indian, and colonial cultures along the warm Indian Ocean. Known for its golden beaches, world-class surfing spots, and the largest Indian population outside of India, Durban offers visitors an intoxicating mix of spicy curry cuisine, bustling markets, and year-round subtropical weather. The city serves as the gateway to KwaZulu-Natal province, with its rich Zulu heritage and proximity to the dramatic Drakensberg Mountains. From the iconic Golden Mile beachfront with its art deco architecture to the aromatic spice markets of the Indian Quarter, Durban pulses with energy and diversity. The city's unique history as a major port has created a melting pot of cultures, evident in everything from its architecture to its world-renowned street food scene. Whether you're catching waves at some of the world's best surf breaks, exploring traditional Zulu villages, or sampling authentic bunny chow, Durban offers an authentic South African experience that's both relaxing and exhilarating.

Top Durban

Golden Mile Beach Experience

Stretch out along Durban's famous 6-kilometer Golden Mile, featuring pristine beaches, the iconic promenade, and excellent swimming conditions year-round. The beachfront offers everything from surfing and beach volleyball to shark-net protected swimming areas and the fascinating uShaka Marine World aquarium complex.

Booking Tip: Beach access is free, but consider booking uShaka Marine World tickets online for 10-15% discounts (around R200-300). Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and intense midday sun. Look for combo packages that include multiple attractions.

Indian Quarter and Spice Market Tour

spend time in the largest Indian community outside of India by exploring Durban's historic Indian Quarter, including the bustling Victoria Street Market with its aromatic spices, colorful fabrics, and traditional crafts. Visit the beautiful Durban Hindu Temple and sample authentic Indian street food and sweets.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, but guided food tours cost R300-500 and provide valuable cultural context. Visit Tuesday-Saturday for the best market experience. Bring cash for purchases and try the famous bunny chow from local vendors.

Valley of 1000 Hills Cultural Experience

Journey into the scenic Valley of 1000 Hills to experience traditional Zulu culture through village visits, traditional dancing, and craft demonstrations. The rolling hills offer spectacular views and authentic cultural exchanges with local Zulu communities, including traditional hut visits and storytelling sessions.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours range from R800-1500 per person including transport and cultural activities. Book with reputable operators who support local communities. Best visited during dry season (April-September) for clearer views and better road conditions.

Durban Botanical Gardens and Burman Bush

Explore Africa's oldest surviving botanical garden, established in 1849, featuring rare cycads, indigenous plants, and beautiful walking trails. The adjacent Burman Bush offers a glimpse of coastal forest ecosystem with over 200 bird species and peaceful nature walks just minutes from the city center.

Booking Tip: Entry is free to Saint Vincent (open 7:30am-5:15pm daily). Guided tours available for R50-100 on weekends. Best visited early morning for birdwatching and cooler temperatures. Combine with nearby Japanese Gardens for a full nature day.

Surfing and Water Sports Adventure

Take advantage of Durban's world-class surf breaks and warm Indian Ocean waters with surfing lessons, stand-up paddleboarding, or deep-sea fishing excursions. The consistent waves and shark-net protection make it ideal for beginners, while experienced surfers can tackle breaks like Cave Rock and New Pier.

Booking Tip: Surf lessons cost R300-500 for 2-hour sessions including board rental. Book with ISA-certified instructors and check for package deals. Best surf conditions March-July. Deep-sea fishing charters range R800-2000 per person for half-day trips.

Getting There

King Shaka International Airport, located 35km north of Durban, serves as the main gateway with direct flights from Johannesburg (1.5 hours), Cape Town (2 hours), and select international destinations. The modern airport offers shuttle services (R200-300), rental cars, and the reliable King Shaka Airport Shuttle. Alternatively, long-distance buses connect Durban to major South African cities, with Intercape and Greyhound offering comfortable overnight services from Johannesburg (6-7 hours) and Cape Town (12-14 hours). Self-driving is popular, with the N3 highway providing a scenic route from Johannesburg through the Drakensberg foothills.

Getting Around

Durban's public transport includes the reliable People Mover bus system along the beachfront and city center (R8-15 per trip), while metered taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are widely available and affordable. The city's compact downtown and beachfront areas are walkable, but for exploring attractions like the Valley of 1000 Hills or cultural sites, rental cars offer the most flexibility. For shorter distances, the colorful minibus taxis provide an authentic local experience, though they can be challenging for first-time visitors. Many hotels offer shuttle services to major attractions and shopping centers.

Where to Stay

Umhlanga Rocks
Morningside
Berea
Point Waterfront
Durban Central
Ballito

Food & Dining

Durban's food scene is legendary, particularly for its Indian cuisine and the iconic bunny chow (curry served in a hollowed-out bread loaf). Head to the Indian Quarter for authentic curry houses, spice markets, and street food, or visit upscale restaurants in Umhlanga and Morningside for contemporary South African cuisine. The beachfront offers everything from casual seafood shacks to fine dining establishments, while local markets provide opportunities to sample traditional Zulu dishes, fresh tropical fruits, and the famous Durban-style curry. Don't miss trying samoosas, koeksisters, and fresh line fish prepared with local spices and Indian Ocean flavors.

Top-Rated Restaurants in South Africa

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Marble Restaurant

4.5 /5
(5122 reviews) 4
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GOLD Restaurant

4.5 /5
(3856 reviews) 3

SMOKE Pretoria

4.6 /5
(1215 reviews)
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Belly of the beast

4.8 /5
(1127 reviews)

Ethiopian Madam Taitou

4.7 /5
(986 reviews) 2

Cuisine Afrique Fire Grill

4.7 /5
(707 reviews) 2
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Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

Durban enjoys a subtropical climate with warm weather year-round, making it a great destination any time. The best weather occurs during autumn (March-May) and spring (September-November) when temperatures are comfortable (20-26°C), humidity is lower, and rainfall is minimal. Summer (December-February) brings hot, humid conditions with afternoon thunderstorms, but it's perfect for beach activities and water sports. Winter (June-August) offers the driest conditions and excellent whale watching opportunities, though ocean temperatures remain swimmable at 18-21°C. Avoid peak South African school holidays (December-January and Easter) for better prices and fewer crowds.

Insider Tips

Try authentic bunny chow from local Indian Quarter vendors rather than tourist restaurants - look for places with long local queues for the best quality and most affordable prices.
Visit the Victoria Street Market early in the morning (around 8-9am) for the freshest spices, better prices, and to experience the market at its most authentic before tourist crowds arrive.
Take advantage of Durban's excellent year-round swimming conditions, but always swim at lifeguarded beaches with shark nets - the warm Indian Ocean current makes Durban one of the few major cities where ocean swimming is comfortable in winter.

Activities in Durban