Durban

Holiday Destinations / Africa / South Africa / Travel Guide / Durban

Durban is the third largest city in South Africa, a delightful coastal city with a distinctive Asian feel as it concentrates the largest population of Indian descent outside of India. Durban is awash with attractions including South Africa’s largest aquarium, the Sharks Board, iconic Diary beach, Africa’s largest shopping mall, and the city’s golden mile to name but a few.

The uShaka Marine World boasts one of the largest aquariums in the world, the biggest collection of sharks in the southern hemisphere, marine animals and exhibits, and a host freshwater rides for a bit of family fun.

If interested in history, visit Phoenix Settlement, the land bought by Mahatma Gandhi during his time in South Africa as a young lawyer. Gandhi came to South Africa in 1893 to provide legal aid to an Indian company and he ended up staying for more than 20 years. This historical landmark is home to both the printing press that he used to spread his ideas and the place where he lived while he fought injustice and apartheid.

Do not miss Diary Beach, a stunning beach that puts Durban firmly on the map as one of the best surfing spots in the world. Visitors come here to admire the massive waves and impressive surfing talent. You can rent a surfboard and play in the waves, you can lie on the golden sand and appreciate the view, or you can stroll along the promenade and enjoy an assortment of curios and eateries.

Take a stroll down the Golden Mile, the name given to a cluster of beaches that runs for 6km alongside some of Durban’s most popular attractions. While in the area, a visit to the Stables Lifestyle Market is totally worth your time.

Enjoy the city’s nightlife, perhaps combined with some breathtaking views from the Oyster Box, considered by many Durban’s best rooftop bar. Thanks to its 180-degree view of the coastline, you’ll feel as if you’re floating over the ocean while tasting the Umhlanga Schling. The signature cocktail is made from two things that the province of KwaZulu Natal is known for: cane sugar and cane spirit.

The Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple is a popular among visitors to Durban. This is the largest Hare Krishna temple in Africa. People come from all over to admire the beautiful architecture, arching domes, stunning ceilings, intricate statues and remarkable chandeliers.

If you find yourself with enough time in your hands, or consider yourself a history buff, a trip to the site of the Battle of Isandlwana could be high in your trip diary. You can enjoy a day tour to the site of the famous battle between the British and the Zulus while hearing some of the most remarkable and lesser known facts about the event. A trained historian will guide you through the battle and, afterwards, you’ll have time to visit Rorke’s Drift and the museum.

We know South Africa from personal experience and have done ourselves most of the activities we recommend here. If you’d like more information, tips and advice, and help planning and booking your holiday in South Africa, feel free to get in touch by chat, phone, videoconference, or email. We are always here to help.

Abe.
Travel Designer and Founder at Travelisto