Durban is located in the sub-tropical province of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa.  Being the third largest city in South Africa, it is the busiest port on the African continent.  Furthermore, it is home to the largest population of Indians living outside of India.  Durban and its magnificent surrounding areas including the lush South Coast and the beautiful North Coast have become a popular holiday and getaway destination.  Due to its favorable weather, outdoor activities including swimming, surfing and fishing can be enjoyed here all year round.

Many different hotels and resorts await the visitors which dot the coastline of KwaZulu-Natal from the South Coast all along to the North Coast.  For hotel information in this region of South Africa, please click here: Durban Hotels / Accommodation in Durban as well as KwaZulu-Natal Hotels.

Zulu village : SHAKALAND in the heart of Zululand

Here is a list of the most popular things to do in Durban, South Africa: 

1. Spend a day at the Ushaka Marine World

This famous marine theme park features a salt water aquarium and hold over 30 indoor and outdoor exhibits. uShaka Marine World in Durban, South Africa, also features an area which features slides and pools for those looking for some adventure.   Visitors can also spend some time at the Ushaka Beach which is situated within the Marine World. Surfing is possible here.

2. Visit the Shakaland – Zulu Cultural Center

In the heart of Zululand, lies a living monument to Zulu culture.  Experience the sight of assegai-wielding warriors, share the fascinating secrets of the Sangomas and witness traditional customs such as tribal dancing, spear making and Zulu beer drinking ceremonies.  Accommodation is in traditional beehive huts, all with mod cons and ensuite bathrooms.  Shakaland is more than just a tourist attraction. It is an enriching experience affording a better understanding of the Zulu nation, its people and their intriguing customs.

For visitors who are passionate about culture, a visit to this magnificent Zulu village is a must.   Visitors have the opportunity to watch the daily activities of those living here , enjoy a traditional lunch and even learn the dances. Make sure to try the unusual beer which is available here as well.

3. A day trip and safari to the Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve

This game reserve is located on the north coast of KwaZulu-Natal and is home to 84 species of game and many species of birds.  It is here where you can also see the “Big Five”: lions, buffaloes, rhinos, elephant and leopards as well as other African animals.  These game drives through the untamed African bush provide guests with close encounters of Africa’s amazing wildlife.

4. Spend half a day at the Durban Botanic Gardens

Spend some time among the trees and flowers, or enjoy an afternoon tea at the lush and tropical Durban Botanic Gardens in Durban, South Africa. Orchids, Palms and Cycads are the main collections of the Durban Botanic Gardens, and the focus of present and forthcoming collection efforts. It is the botanical gardens intention to maintain the cosmopolitan flavour of their cycad collection, which is currently ranked among the top ten botanical garden cycad collections in the world.

5. Take a scenic ride on the Umgeni Steam Railway

Trains run on the first and last Sunday of each month , twice daily at 8:45 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. They depart from Kloof Station (Stokers Arms).

Durban Botanic Gardens, KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa)

Other attractive things to do in Durban include:

- Tour Juma Musjid

Juma Musjid is the largest mosque in the Southern Hemisphere. It has a capacity of 4,500 worshipers. The mosque is located on the corner of Grey & Queen Street in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

- Take a walk on the promenade

Thanks to recent developments, a promenade is now available which connects the ushaka Marine World all the way to the Moses Mabhida 2010 World Cup stadium. The promenade is filled with people walking, joking, biking and enjoying their day and evening on the shore.

- Visit the Old Fort in Durban

The Old Fort was built in 1842. Some years later the facilities were expended with an armory and barracks.

- Shop at Victoria Street market

Take your time and walk among the 180 stalls of the Victoria Street market. Aside from the fresh fruit and vegetables, you can also buy spices and wood articles.

- Spend some time in the Indian District

Head to the Indian District if you want to enjoy some authentic spicy Indian food or indulge in some shopping. The bustling Oriental Bazaar and the Indian Market are well worth a visit.

- Tour the Assagay Coffee Farm

If you like coffee then you shouldn’t miss a visit to the Assagay Coffee Farm.

- Half day at Fort Victoria

Fort Victoria was built by the British in 1839 to protect their occupation but it was conquered by the Boers in 1842.

- Spend a day at the beach

- Hiking and Extreme Sports

Skydiving, ballooning, paragliding and many more exciting activities await visitors in Durban.

For hotel quotes, queries and reservations, please do not hesitatet to contact us:

South African Tourism Company
Tel:     +27 (0)21 794 9050
Mobile:     +27 (0)827 823 142 Fax:     +27 (0)21 794 9995
Email:     africa@golfing-safaris.com

Website:     http://www.south-african-hotels.com
Website:     http://www.south-african-lodges.com