Book flights to Durban (DUR)

Book your visit to Durban

Africa’s busiest port is an extraordinary mix of cultures, from the traditions of the Zulu people to influences from the UK, Netherlands and India. Its cosmopolitan nature continues, and you’ll hear a multitude of languages and traditional African dialects spoken throughout the city.

The natural wonders of this part of South Africa are there to discover, from the gentile walkways and flowerbeds of the Durban Botanical Gardens to the thousands of imposing reptiles at Crocodile Creek.

Food is a delicious fusion of classic European, Indian, and African dishes, including seafood and quirky local specialities like ‘Bunny Chow’. Shopping ranges from markets selling local handicrafts to top fashion outlets and air-conditioned malls. Durban is the perfect introduction to your South African odyssey.

Things to do in Durban

Get up close and personal with Durban’s marine wildlife. Shark adventures take you out to the blue water and introduce you to some of the world’s largest marine predators, including the Great White.

For a less adrenaline-pumping experience, take the family to uShaka Marine World, home to one of the largest aquariums in the world and a water park that younger visitors will love.

Experience the thrill of a South African football game at the Moses Mabhida stadium, built for the 2010 World Cup and seating 56,000 passionate soccer fans.

Learn more about the culture of the tribes of South Africa with a visit to Phansi Museum, where you’ll find thousands of artefacts on display. Or take a peaceful stroll and stop for a picnic in Durban Botanic Gardens, filled with rare plants and shady trees.

Activities in Durban

Durban celebrates with festivals all year round, from music and dance to food and poetry. A large Indian community means that there are plenty of Hindu events including demonstrations of walking on hot coals and celebrations such as Diwali, as well as Muslim celebrations for Eid.

For a day trip with a little bit of a bite, Crocodile Creek is just half an hour from the centre of Durban. Here, you’ll find thousands of rare Nile crocodiles, alligators and other reptiles, and keepers who are passionate about conserving these incredible creatures.

Spend a day at one of South Africa’s most important racetracks and watch thoroughbred horses take on the gallops at Greyville Race Course. Or tee off on the 18-hole Zimbali Golf Course, with incredible backdrops and fiendishly tricky sand traps.

Food in Durban

With one of the largest Indian populations in the world, Durban’s cuisine is heavily influenced by Indian food, and curries are a staple throughout the city. One unique variation is ‘Bunny Chow’: a quarter of a loaf of bread hollowed out and filled with spicy curry. It’s a great on-the-go food or as a fiery lunchtime snack.

Shisa Nyama is a flavourful Zulu BBQ technique that’s usually at the heart of a social get-together with family and friends. Just about anything goes on the grill, from chicken and beef to more exotic delights such as ostrich.

If you need something cool and sweet after all those spices, a Bombay Crush is a Durban favourite. This blend of Rooh Afza syrup, milk, and basil seeds is topped with vanilla ice cream and is a favourite among the Muslim community during Ramadan.

Shopping in Durban

Durban has a thriving retail centre, but you have to experience the huge Gateway Theatre of Shopping at least once during your visit. Reported to be the largest in the southern hemisphere, it’s also home to some great family entertainment including a skateboard park and an artificial wave centre for some surfing fun.

To dive into South Africa’s market culture, Victoria Street market is the place to go for souvenirs, while the monthly I Heart Market in People’s Park is a great spot for artisan crafts and textiles. Look out for Zulu beadwork and wickerwork, as well as fresh spices and wood carvings that capture the spirit of Africa. 

For air-conditioned comfort, the Pavilion Mall in Westville is worth a browse for branded retailing and some independent stores selling local crafts.