Full Day Durban City Tour: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re planning a trip to Durban and want to see the city’s highlights and landmarks all in one go, then the Full Day Durban City Tour is the perfect choice for you. This tour covers everything from cultural landmarks to natural beauty, so there’s something for everyone.Overview
This is a full-day tour that includes transportation from your hotel or a central Durban meeting spot between all the various attractions. Throughout the tour, you’ll learn about Durban’s rich history, culture, architecture, and environment as your guide provides commentary. The tour includes stops at some of Durban’s most popular attractions, including the Moses Mabhida Stadium, the Umhlanga Rocks Promenade, the Ushaka Village Walk, City Hall, Victoria Street Market, Durban Botanic Gardens, and others.What’s Included
The Full Day Durban City Tour includes the following:- Driver/guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)
- Transportation between attractions
- Lunch
Meeting and Pickup
The meeting point for the tour is 85 Marine Parade, South Beach, Durban 4001, South Africa. If you can’t make it to the meeting point, you can request a pickup from your hotel. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from selected hotels only, so be sure to check if your hotel is on the list.Tour Highlights
The Full Day Durban City Tour covers many of Durban’s most popular attractions. Here are some of the highlights:Moses Mabhida Stadium
The Moses Mabhida Stadium is an iconic landmark in Durban. It was built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup and is named after Moses Mabhida, a former General Secretary of the South African Communist Party. The stadium has a striking design, featuring a 105-metre Arch of Triumph that offers amazing views of the city.Umhlanga Rocks Promenade
The Umhlanga Rocks Promenade is a beautiful coastal walkway that’s perfect for soaking up the sun and the scenery. The promenade is lined with palm trees, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can stop for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.Ushaka Village Walk
The Ushaka Village Walk is a popular shopping and entertainment complex that’s located right on the beachfront. It features a wide range of stores, restaurants, cafes, and bars, as well as a water park and an aquarium.City Hall
The Durban City Hall is a magnificent building that dates back to 1910. It was built in the neo-Baroque style and features a stunning clock tower that’s visible from all over the city. The building is now used as the headquarters of the eThekwini Municipality.Victoria Street Market
The Victoria Street Market is a bustling indoor market that’s packed with food stalls, souvenir shops, and local crafts. It’s a great place to explore and pick up some souvenirs to take home.Durban Botanic Gardens
The Durban Botanic Gardens is the oldest surviving botanical garden in Africa. It was established in 1849 and has an impressive collection of indigenous and exotic plants. There’s also a tea garden where you can relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.Final Thoughts
The Full Day Durban City Tour is perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time, as it covers many of the city’s most popular attractions in just one day. With transportation included, you won’t have to worry about getting around, and with a knowledgeable guide providing commentary, you’ll learn a lot about Durban’s rich history, culture, architecture and environment. Book the tour here and get ready for a day of adventure and discovery.
Frequently Asked Questions about Durban
1. What is Durban?
Durban is a city located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. It is the third largest city in the country and is known for its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.
2. What are the best things to do in Durban?
There are many things to do and see in Durban. Some of the best attractions include:
- uShaka Marine World – a theme park with aquariums, water rides, and a dolphin show
- Moses Mabhida Stadium – a sports stadium with a SkyCar that offers panoramic views of the city
- Golden Mile Beaches – a stretch of beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing
- PheZulu Safari Park – a park that offers traditional Zulu dance performances and wildlife tours
- Victoria Street Market – a vibrant market with stalls selling spices, crafts, and souvenirs
3. What is the weather like in Durban?
Durban has a subtropical climate, which means it is warm and humid throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 15°C to 28°C. Summers (December to February) can be hot and humid, while winters (June to August) are mild and dry.
4. What is the best time to visit Durban?
The best time to visit Durban is during the winter months (June to August) when the weather is mild and dry. This is also the low season, so you can avoid crowds and get better deals on accommodation and tours. However, if you want to enjoy the beaches and water activities, the summer months (December to February) are the best.
5. How do I get around Durban?
There are several modes of transportation in Durban, including:
- Taxis – metered taxis and minibus taxis are available, but it is important to negotiate the fare before getting in
- Buses – the city has a well-developed bus system that is affordable and reliable
- Car rentals – many international car rental companies have branches in Durban
- Uber – Uber is available in Durban and is a convenient way to get around the city
6. What are the best restaurants in Durban?
Durban is known for its diverse cuisine, especially its Indian-inspired dishes. Some of the best restaurants in Durban include:
- The Chairman – a speakeasy-style restaurant with a fusion of Asian and African cuisine
- Greedy Buddha – a modern Asian restaurant with an extensive menu of dim sum, sushi, and noodles
- Butcher Boys – a steakhouse with a variety of meat cuts and sides
- Mali’s Indian Restaurant – a family-run restaurant with authentic Indian cuisine
- African Peninsula Restaurant – a seafood restaurant with ocean views and a sushi bar
7. What are the top hotels in Durban?
Durban has a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the top hotels in Durban include:
- Oyster Box Hotel – a five-star hotel with a spa, multiple restaurants, and a beachfront location
- Hilton Durban – a four-star hotel with a rooftop pool, fitness center, and business facilities
- Bellevue Cafe – a boutique hotel with stylish rooms and an on-site restaurant
- Royal Palm Hotel – a four-star hotel with spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and a spa
- Coastlands Umhlanga Hotel and Convention Centre – a four-star hotel with conference facilities, a pool, and a restaurant
8. What are the top cultural attractions in Durban?
Durban has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by the Zulu people and Indian immigrants. Some of the top cultural attractions in Durban include:
- KwaMuhle Museum – a museum that documents the history of apartheid in Durban
- The Durban Botanic Gardens – a botanical garden with indigenous and exotic plants, as well as a rare cycad collection
- The Phansi Museum – a museum that showcases traditional South African art and artifacts
- The Hare Krishna Temple of Understanding – a temple that offers tours, vegetarian food, and cultural events
- The Juma Masjid Mosque – a mosque that is the largest in the southern hemisphere and has beautiful architecture
9. Is Durban a safe city to visit?
Durban, like any major city, has its share of crime. However, most visitors to Durban have a safe and enjoyable experience as long as they take basic safety precautions. It is always a good idea to stay in well-lit and busy areas, avoid carrying large sums of cash or valuable items, and be aware of your surroundings.
10. What are some useful phrases in the Zulu language?
The Zulu language is one of the official languages of South Africa and is widely spoken in Durban. Here are some useful phrases:
| English | Zulu |
|---|---|
| Hello | Sawubona |
| Thank you | Ngiyabonga |
| Goodbye | Sala kahle |
| How are you? | Unjani? |
| Yes | Ewe |
| No | Cha |
Book Your Tour Now
Durban is a vibrant and diverse city with something to offer for everyone. Whether you are interested in cultural attractions, outdoor activities, or delicious food, Durban has it all. With careful planning and safety precautions, you can have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful city.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Durban
If you’re planning a visit to Durban, then you’re in for a treat. Durban is a vibrant and culturally diverse city that offers something for everyone. From golden beaches and waves for surfing to world-class museums and restaurants, the city has a lot to offer to tourists. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a list of things to do, see, and eat while in Durban.1. Explore the Beaches
Durban is known for its beautiful beaches, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Some of the most popular beaches in Durban include:a) Umhlanga Rocks Beach
This beach is located just north of Durban and is known for its stunning scenery and bustling promenade. The beach is perfect for swimming and surfing, and you can also find great restaurants and cafes nearby.b) Durban North Beach
Located in the heart of Durban, this beach is ideal for sunbathing and swimming. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards, so it’s safe for families with children. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops nearby.2. Visit the Durban Botanical Gardens
The Durban Botanical Gardens is an excellent place to visit for anyone interested in nature and plants. The gardens are home to thousands of tropical and subtropical plants, including orchids, palms, and cycads. The gardens are free to enter and are open every day from 9 am to 5 pm.3. Take a Trip to the Valley of a Thousand Hills
The Valley of a Thousand Hills is a beautiful area located just outside Durban. It’s home to several traditional Zulu villages and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. You can take a guided tour of the area, which includes a visit to a Zulu cultural village and a scenic drive through the hills.4. Discover Durban’s Cultural Heritage
Durban has a rich cultural heritage, and there are several museums and cultural centers that you can visit to learn more about the city’s history. Some of the top cultural attractions in Durban include:a) The Phansi Museum
This museum is dedicated to the culture and arts of the Zulus and other traditional African tribes. You can see a wide range of exhibits, including traditional beadwork, pottery, and sculptures.b) The KwaMuhle Museum
The KwaMuhle Museum focuses on the social and political history of Durban and the surrounding area. You can learn about the struggles of the black population during apartheid and the fight for civil rights in post-apartheid South Africa.5. Taste the Local Cuisine
Durban is known for its delicious cuisine, which is heavily influenced by Indian and Zulu cooking. Some of the top dishes to try while in Durban include:a) Bunny Chow
Bunny chow is a popular street food in Durban. It’s a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, usually chicken or mutton. It’s messy, but delicious.b) Durban Curry
Durban curry is a spicy, fragrant dish that is made with a blend of Indian and Zulu spices. It’s usually served with rice or bread.c) Biltong
Biltong is a type of dried meat that is similar to jerky. It’s popular in South Africa, and you can find it in many shops and markets in Durban.Book Your Tour Now
Durban is a fantastic city for tourists, with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in nature, culture, or food, there’s something for everyone in Durban. We hope this guide has been helpful and that you will enjoy your visit to this amazing city!Table of Contents
