Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Durban, South Africa. #Top Attractions

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Arranging a trip to Durban, South Africa? For the best things to do in Durban, South Africa, and the coolest places to visit in Durban, South Africa. Scroll down for our top travel recommendations in Durban, South Africa. We at Wondrous Drifter, a Web 3.0 travel startup, have big plans to shake things up in the travel business.

African Art Center

African Art Center, Durban, South Africa
African Art Center is one of the best places to go in Durban, South Africa

A place where artistic talent is being valued, nourished, and is being used as an alternative to educating the locals!

The African Art Centre is a development project that is non-profit and aims to promote the traditional artistic heritage of African people.

Also, it encourages the transition from traditional to contemporary trends in a changing society. 

The center provides incentives for artists and craftspeople by assisting individuals and facilitating self-help projects to provide an income for rural people, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal. 

Additionally, it aims to encourage the transition from traditional to contemporary trends in a changing society.

The continuous marketing of the craftspeople’s wares through the center has enabled many of them to be the sole wage earners in their families, particularly the women. 

As a result, they have been able to provide for their children’s needs and education.

The African Art Centre has been instrumental in fostering the careers of many artists, many of whom have gone on to achieve widespread success both in South Africa and elsewhere in the world.

Address: 94 Florida Rd, Durban, South Africa

Battle of Isandlwana Field

Battle of Isandlwana Field, Durban, South Africa
Battle of Isandlwana Field, Durban, South Africa / Hugh Llewelyn / Flickr

A historical wartime setting that will surely make your jaw drop when you see it in person!

On the 22nd of January 1879, the first combat of the Anglo-Zulu War, known as the Battle of Isandlwana, took place. 

It is still considered the greatest victory in the military history of the Zulu nation, while at the same time being an embarrassing loss for the British Empire.

It was the first battle in the annals of history in which the assegai, knobkierie, and ox-hide shield successfully annihilated a trained European army armed with rifles and guns.

Since the British commander, Lord Chelmsford underestimated the strength of the Zulu impis.

He did not give the order for the encampment he built on the 20th of January at Isandlwana to entrench and form defensive positions. 

Ultimately, he had no idea that 20,000 warriors were approaching his location at that very moment.

It is a fantastic opportunity to acquire a more in-depth understanding of the happenings.

It is highly recommended that you take part in a guided tour, during which your English-speaking tour guide – which is typically an educated historian – will take you not only to Rorke’s Drift but also to the museum.

Address: Isandlwana

Bunny Chow

Bunny Chow, Durban, South Africa
Bunny Chow, Durban, South Africa / amanderson2 / Flickr

One of the things that you really must do while in Durban is to order a Bunny Chow, especially if you are interested in the regional cuisine.

This delicacy consists of a half loaf of bread that has been hollowed out and filled with curry.

It is a popular form of fast food among students and is recommended for consumption when suffering from a hangover.

The traditional South African fast food meal known as bunny chow, more commonly referred to as just a bunny, is a loaf of white bread that has been hollowed out and filled with curry. 

It was first used by Indian South Africans living in the Durban area.

This meal, which gained widespread popularity in the area sometime between the 1860s and the 1940s, is a favorite of locals due to its heartiness. 

Bunny Chow is easily found anywhere in Durban. One of the best restaurants that serve it is Cane Cutters. 

For the most part, the neighborhood around Florida Road is your best option for finding a decent bunny.

It will cause your lips to burn, but it is incredibly delicious.

Address: Durban, South Africa

Dairy Beach

Dairy Beach, Durban, South Africa
Dairy Beach, Durban, South Africa / Chris Bloom / Flickr

Visit the surfer’s choice beach in South Africa!

The Golden Mile in Durban stretches for a total of 6 kilometers, and one of its beaches, Dairy Beach, also goes by the name New Pier Beach. 

Another one of the world’s finest surf spots is made possible by the beach break that generates reliable waves.

When the wind is coming from the southwest, and the perfect swell angle is coming from the east, the surfing is at its best. 

The waves are at their busiest during low tide when the circumstances for surfing are optimum; nevertheless, keep in mind that it can get fairly crowded on the waves.

Swimming and working on your tan are both enjoyable activities that can be done at the beach. 

It is important to watch sharks and jellyfish in the water since you never know what kind of unpleasant surprise may await you.

When you need some relief from the scorching heat during your day at the beach, make your way to one of the amazing restaurants located directly on the beachfront in Durban.

Address: North Beach, Durban, South Africa

Durban Botanic Gardens

Durban Botanic Gardens, Durban, South Africa
Durban Botanic Gardens, Durban, South Africa / Chris Bloom / Flickr

Finding a museum with historical fossil plants and botanical collections? This is a place for you!

The Durban Botanic Gardens are the oldest botanical gardens in Africa, having been established in 1849. 

They may be found on Berea Hill’s slopes, located to the north of the city center.

An extraordinary collection of live fossil plants, including pre-dinosaur cycads that are known to have existed for more than 250 million years and that are in danger of extinction, may be found there.

There is a good reason to go see The Wood’s Cycads, which were given their name after the botanist John Medley Wood, who discovered a cycad plant in the forest of Zululand in the year 1895.

The Durban Botanic Gardens are home to more than fifty bird species. 

In addition, you will be able to take pleasure in the Garden of Senses and view bromeliads, palms, and orchids.

Don’t forget to grab some great shots of you and your loved ones!

Address: 9A John Zikhali Rd, Berea, Durban, 4001, South Africa

Florida Road

Florida Road, Durban, South Africa
Florida Road, Durban, South Africa / Chris Bloom / Flickr

The road that never sleeps can be found in this place!

The activity on Florida Road in Durban kicks off early in the morning when the sidewalk cafes become a gathering place for people of all walks of life, including friends, coworkers, and customers. 

The excitement lasts all day and into the night when the street’s clubs and bars come to life.

It earns Florida Road its reputation as one of Durban’s most popular places to go out at night.

Explore Florida Road’s diverse selection of restaurants, galleries, boutiques, studios, and bars while taking in the area’s electrifying street ambiance and distinctive, historically significant architecture. 

People come to Florida Road to shop, eat, drink, meet, and enjoy Durban’s seemingly perpetual summer. 

This street has clearly earned its status as one of the city’s trendiest streets since it is where people congregate.

Furthermore, dozens of historically significant buildings have been meticulously conserved. They can be found stretching from Sandile Thusi Road to Innes Road. 

Some of these buildings are typical Edwardian structures over a century old.

Address: Florida Rd, Windermere, Durban, 4001, South Africa

Golden Mile

Golden Mile, Durban, South Africa
Golden Mile, Durban, South Africa / Axel Bührmann /Flickr

Longing for a long summer breeze? Check this one!

The Golden Mile, a 6-kilometer strip of beaches stretching from Blue Lagoon in the north to Addington Beach and Durban Harbor, is the perfect area to start visiting Durban.

This is undoubtedly one of Durban’s most popular tourist attractions because it draws its name from the golden sand beaches extending along the business sector’s perimeter, as the name implies.

It’s easy to walk, run, bike, skate, or even take an adventure down this asphalt boardwalk.

The beach is a huge playground where you may use your imagination to create sand castles.

Interested in having more? You can watch people surf and experience a fun activity, and then Golden Mile offers lots of chances for you to do so.

Because of the year-round presence of shark nets, instructors, and lifeguards, this is perhaps the safest spot in South Africa for surfers to enjoy!

Address: Beach Walk, Durban Central, Durban, 4001, South Africa

Inanda Township and Inanda Heritage Trail

Inanda Heritage Trail, Durban, South Africa
Inanda Township and Inanda Heritage Trail is one of the best places to go in Durban, South Africa

A place where history lives, a place to visit!

Inanda is a township approximately 20 minutes drive northwest of Durban, and it is notable for its important part in the history of South Africa.

When Mahatma Gandhi came here in 1904 to practice law, he was staying at this location at the time, and it was here that he conceived of the idea of passive resistance.

In addition, this is where Dr. John Dube, the African National Congress (ANC) president, was born in 1871.

This is also the location where he opened the Ohlange Institute, which was the location where Nelson Mandela cast his vote during the first democratic elections held in the country in 1994.

You should consider taking a trip along the Inanda Heritage Trail.

During this, you will have the opportunity to stop at a number of historically significant locations. 

The highlights include Gandhi’s Phoenix Settlement, where he used to live and where his printing press, which he used to propagate his message against racism, can still be seen.

Address: Inanda Valley, Durban, South Africa

Indian Quarter

Indian Quarter, Durban, South Africa
Indian Quarter is one of the best places to go in Durban, South Africa

Wander through a place where history is preserved!

One of the most diversified cities in South Africa, Durban is home to a sizable population of people of Indian descent. 

Most of those who came from India did so in two distinct waves. The first one began in 1860 when Native Americans were brought to the area to work as enslaved people for the British masters. 1880 marked the beginning of the second wave.

Exploring the Indian Quarter is unquestionably one of the things visitors should do while in Durban because the area’s history is so rich and diverse.

The Juma Masjid Mosque is the largest in the southern hemisphere, and it can be found in the Indian Quarter, which also houses the Victoria Street Market, sometimes known as “the Vic.” 

Here, you can shop for a variety of goods, including handmade jewelry, spices, incense, and embroidered fabrics.

The cuisine sold on the streets in this city’s section is delicious.

Address: Indian District, Durban, South Africa

Kingsmead Ground

Kingsmead Ground, Durban, South Africa
Kingsmead Ground, Durban, South Africa / Dave Morton / Flickr

Cricket might not be a sounding name in sports, but this place is a pride of Durban because it’s a historical must-see place!

With its sandy beach and vibrant surf culture, Durban is home to Kingsmead. The neighborhood is only a stone’s throw away from the ocean. 

It has been the site of test matches ever since England and South Africa battled to a tie. There was a test match in January 1923.

South Africa’s 129-run beating of Australia in February 1970 was one of Kingsmead’s most memorable events.

It’s fair to assume that the landscape has seen its share of booms and busts. 

If you want to check out these historical grounds, stop by Kingsmead Ground on your trip to Durban!

Address: Kingsmead Way, Kingsmead, Durban, 4001, South Africa

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KwaMuhle Museum

KwaMuhle Museum, Durban, South Africa
KwaMuhle Museum is one of the best places to go in Durban, South Africa

The locals love this museum because it has such a significant historical impact!

The KwaMuhle Museum is housed in the Department of Native Affairs, formerly one of Durban’s most reviled structures. 

This government department was charged with executing legislation enacted by the apartheid regime, which discriminated against non-white people and made life difficult for them.

On the other hand, this structure has been transformed into a symbol of hope and optimism, a place where diversity is cherished, and those who have contributed to the fight against injustice are remembered. 

It was planned in 1927 and completed in 1928. The structure presently serves as a repository for the different cultural sectors that make up South Africa’s Rainbow Nation.

The KwaMuhle Museum is a fantastic site to learn about Durban’s history from the beginning to the present.

Explore the exhibit (which includes images, video testimony, papers, and more) to learn about the black exodus, apartheid, the Cato Manor township’s energy efficiency efforts, and more.

Address: 130 Bram Fischer Rd, Durban Central, Durban, 4001, South Africa

KwaZulu Natal Sharks Board

KwaZulu Natal Sharks Board, Durban, South Africa
KwaZulu Natal Sharks Board, Durban, South Africa / flowcomm / Flickr

Wondering why the warm waters of Durban are safe? Check this one out and get your answer!

The Natal Sharks Boards (NSB), the world’s only institution of its sort, services a 320-kilometer stretch of shark nets and recently deployed drumlines along the KwaZulu Natal coastline.

It allows sunbathers, beachgoers, and surfers to enjoy the warm waves of the Indian Ocean. 

The scarlet, gory heart thumps across the antiseptic table, prompting yours to slam into your chest. 

You can feel the excitement rushing through your veins as you try to figure out your image in the predator’s hidden gaze.

The bladed teeth, still protruding and eager for a bite, including in death, hold you at a safe distance as your hand rises to graze against the rough leather-like skin.

People at the Natal Sharks Board, Durban’s Umhlanga, South Africa, feel sympathetic and responsible.

It is because of their understanding of sharks’ vital role in nature and the realization that leaving land for a dip in the ocean infringes on their territory.

Address: Natal Sharks Board, 1A Herrwood Drive, Umhlanga, Durban, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa

Mitchell Park and Jameson Park

Mitchell Park and Jameson Park, Durban, South Africa
Mitchell Park and Jameson Park is one of the best places to go in Durban, South Africa

Indulge in carefree daydreaming under the protection of the park’s mature trees. 

Picnics with the whole family or quiet afternoons spent reading a book while listening to music from the band rotunda are both ideal activities for the grass.

A sizable section of Africa that has been meticulously maintained is home to flowerbeds and zoo animals. 

This previously unprofitable ostrich farm in 1910 saw the addition of more animals, which led to the creation of the charming collection of aviaries and menageries that can be found there today.

Colorful petals and floral arrangements harmonize with the various tropical fish, birds, reptiles, and tiny animals. 

The children’s playground is not only the site of many giggles and cartwheels but also accessible to youngsters with physical limitations.

Jameson Park, formerly used for growing pineapples, has been transformed into Durban’s premier rose garden.

Furthermore, it features 600 rose bushes representing 200 different types, despite the warm climate of the surrounding area.

Address: Morningside, Berea, 4001, South Africa

Moses Mabhida Stadium

Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban, South Africa
Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban, South Africa / Mikhael Moosa / Flickr

Football and soccer fans agree that a trip to this stadium is necessary. 

Moses Mabhida, a former General Secretary of the South African Communist Party, was honored by naming a soccer stadium in Durban, located in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. 

The stadium is known as the Moses Mabhida Stadium. It is a stadium that may be utilized for a variety of events.

It was located on the Golden Mile, and in 2010, it played host to eight of the FIFA World Cup games. 

You may travel to the arch via the Sky Car or by climbing the 500 steps, and once you’re there, you’ll be able to take in a panoramic view of the city in every direction.

If you are looking for a rush of excitement, you should make it a point to ride on the Big Rush Big Swing, the world’s tallest rope swing at 220 meters.

Address: 44 Isaiah Ntshangase Rd, Stamford Hill, Durban, 4023, South Africa

Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple

Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple, Durban, South Africa
Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple is one of the best places to go in Durban, South Africa

It is a well-preserved temple that will keep your eyes stuck looking at its architectural design!

The Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple, or the Hare Krishna Temple, is a popular tourist destination in the Chatsworth neighborhood.

Its three white and gold domes stand above a beautiful octagonal roof, around 20 kilometers south of Durban City Centre.

Recognized as a marvel of architecture, the temple is also a place for spiritual renewal.

Although it was conceived and built in the 1980s, its architecture is a blend of classic, contemporary, and futuristic elements and a fusion of themes exhibiting “east meets west.

Its unusual placement accentuates this in the middle of a moat of water and water features, bordered by a huge, beautiful lotus-shaped garden.

This temple is widely regarded as the most magnificent on the African continent, making it one of the places tourists visit when visiting Durban.

Address: 50 Bhaktivedanta Swami Cir, Westcliff, Durban, 4092, South Africa

Suncoast Casino, Hotels and Entertainment

Suncoast Casino, Hotels and Entertainment, Durban, South Africa
Suncoast Casino, Hotels and Entertainment, Durban, South Africa / South African Tourism / Flickr

An all-in-one stop to visit! This is not just your ordinary casino!

Suncoast Casino, Hotels and Entertainment is an entertainment facility adjacent to the Kings Park Sporting Precinct at the northern end of Durban’s Golden Mile.

Apart from the casino, the complex has numerous restaurants, a beach bar, and theaters.

It owns a semi-private beach, which has been recognized as one of South Africa’s top three beaches. 

Suncoast is home to South Africa’s largest casino complex. 

The complex’s design complements Durban’s extensive art deco legacy.

Many recreational cyclists use the casino as a base for their training rides up the North Coast, as well as the start of the Tour de Nandos cycle race in September and the end of the Amashovashova National Classic in October.

In addition, near the end of January, the A1 Grand Prix of Nations is staged in the casino’s streets.

The only street race on the whole A1 calendar is this one. The casino has both smoking and non-smoking portions, and many eateries are housed within the complex.

Address: Suncoast Boulevard, O R Tambo Parade, Durban, 4056, South Africa

Umgeni River Bird Park

Umgeni River Bird Park, Durban, South Africa
Umgeni River Bird Park, Durban, South Africa / guilherme jofili / Flickr

Be amazed by the place where different birds can be seen in one place!

Dr. Alan Abrey is responsible for designing and constructing the Umgeni River Bird Park. 

It is located in an ancient quarry that used to hold water and was frequented by Alan when he was a little boy growing up in Durban. The quarry location may be found here.

When he was looking for a location for a bird park, he remembered it as a good possibility. 

Councillor Sybil Hotz, serving as Durban’s mayor at the time, opened the Umgeni River Bird Park in April 1984. 

Before that, the park had been closed for a year while major land filling, landscaping, and aviary building took place.

The park encompasses an area of 3.5 hectares of verdant tropical landscaping. It is home to an ever-expanding collection of more than 800 birds representing 200 species.

Certain species are the only ones of their kind in Africa, while other species are frequently kept as pets.

Address: Riverside Rd, Durban North, Durban, 4051, South Africa

Umhlanga Rocks

Umhlanga Rocks, Durban, South Africa
Umhlanga Rocks, Durban, South Africa / Martie Swart / Flickr

Water activities can all be found in this place, making it a breathtaking place for you to visit!

Umhlanga Rocks is a tourist town located about 16 kilometers north of Durban. 

It is blessed with gorgeous golden beaches ideal for various water sports, including surfing, kiteboarding, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing. 

In addition, it is a common destination for whale and dolphin-watching excursions. There is also a sizable shopping mall known as the Gateway Theatre of Shopping and several golf courses.

The lighthouse is one of the most beautiful landmarks in the region, and you can see it while strolling down the beach. 

The best time to visit is early in the morning when people are out strolling and jogging along the promenade to get a glimpse of life in the community.

Be sure to visit the Oyster Box hotel’s rooftop bar as well; they serve wonderful drinks, and the views of the sunset from there are breathtaking. 

The Umhlanga Schling is the most famous of the drinks, and it is made with both cane sugar and cane spirit.

Address: Umhlanga, Durban, South Africa

uShaka Sea World

uShaka Sea World, Durban, South Africa
uShaka Sea World, Durban, South Africa / South African Tourism / Flickr

Deep water adventure? Take a chance to be part of it!

Within uShaka, Marine World is one of the largest aquariums in the entire world that can be found here.

In addition, there is also the Wet and Wild Water Park and the Village Walk Shopping Center.

It serves as the primary draw for visitors to the complex. A theme park of international renown also serves as a tourist destination, located on Durban’s Golden Mile.

The Ocean Walk experience is the highlight of the visit and one of the reasons why this is one of the best places to visit in Durban. 

During this portion of the tour, you will have the opportunity to walk across the bottom of the Open Ocean Exhibit to see a wide variety of marine life, such as many sardines and rays.

Durban’s Sea World is widely considered to be one of the city’s must-see attractions and destinations for tourists. Don’t go anywhere until you’ve had a chance to look at the penguins!

uShaka Sea World should not be missed at any cost; go there immediately!

Address: 1 King Shaka Ave, Point, Durban, 4001, South Africa

Valley of 1000 Hills and Phe-Zulu

Valley of 1000 Hills and Phe-Zulu, Durban, South Africa
Valley of 1000 Hills and Phe-Zulu is one of the best places to go in Durban, South Africa

Camp, trek, horseback ride, and relax in the natural surroundings!

Add some adventure to your travel itinerary and explore the Valley of 1000 Hills!

If you’re in the neighborhood of Umhlanga Rocks, the Valley of 1000 Hills is an unspoiled wildlife refuge with breathtaking views.

The Umgeni River, which begins in the Drakensberg Mountains and flows into the Indian Ocean, is surrounded by a thousand hills that are layered one on top of the other.

Furthermore, the traditional Zulu community Phe-Zulu is noted for its witch doctor practices, which are still practiced up to this date.

It is located after Hillcrest and Botha’s Hill, and you should also make it a point to stop there.

It’s where you can go horseback riding, go for a trek, or just kick back and relax. The facility features a crocodile farm and a snake park within its grounds. 

There are two restaurants and two curio shops, so there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

The well-known Gasa clan performs their dance routine daily to entertain guests.

Do you need any more convincing that Durban South Africa is worth a visit? Click here for all the reasons to visit Durban, South Africa, at least once in your lifetime here.

Address: 190 Old Main Rd, Bothas Hill, Outer West Durban, 3610, South Africa

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