Welcome to Durban, the sunny coastal city in South Africa with endless attractions, adventures, and pristine beaches. Durban is a melting pot of cultures and lifestyles, offering a unique blend of experiences that will capture your heart and soul. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, a foodie, or an adrenaline seeker, Durban has something for you. In this guide, we will highlight the best attractions and things to do in Durban, so you can plan your perfect itinerary and make the most of your visit. Let’s get started!
The 5 Best Indoor Activities in Durban
- From Durban: Sani Pass and Lesotho by 4WD Vehicle
- Drakensberg mnt Sani Pass T. Duration: 13hrs, Cost: R3890pp-2pax/more travelling
- Mountain Splendor -The Kingdom of Lesotho from Durban
- Durban: Journey along the Epic Sani Pass & Lesotho Tour
- Sani Pass – Lesotho Mountain Kingdom
The 5 Best Indoor Activities in Durban
1. From Durban: Sani Pass and Lesotho by 4WD Vehicle
Benefit from pickup at a location of your choice in Durban and explore Pietermaritzburg before heading off to the Drakensberg Mountains on the Sani Pass into Lesotho. Travel in a 4WD Land Rover along the 33-kilometer gravel road that ascends the Sani Pass Hotel, 1566 meters above sea level. Witness the stunning landscape as your vehicle navigates the narrow border post with Lesotho, and experience the rolling hills and the endless sky from this vantage point. Stop at the highest pub in Africa for a hot lunch before returning to Durban. This tour is an exciting adventure complete with spectacular views of the Drakensberg Mountains that you don’t want to miss.
2. Drakensberg mnt Sani Pass T. Duration: 13hrs, Cost: R3890pp-2pax/more travelling
On this 13hr tour, explore the Drakensberg Mountain and traverse the Sani Pass. Enjoy the hassle-free round-trip transfer from your accommodation in Durban to Underberg, where you can begin your adventure. Meet the Basotho people and learn about their culture as you explore the mountains with a guide. Take in the wild views, fascinating flora, and fauna, and see high-elevation villages. Dine at a high-elevation pub and enjoy lunch, snacks, and bottled water provided. This tour is limited to just your group, ensuring a personalized experience. At the end of your tour, you’ll be dropped off at Blue Waters Hotel. Please note, this tour is not wheelchair accessible. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.
3. Mountain Splendor -The Kingdom of Lesotho from Durban
Take a trip from Durban into the Kingdom of Lesotho with pickup and drop-off from your hotel included. During the tour, cross the border from South Africa and travel by 4-wheel drive vehicle through the steep Sani Pass while admiring the stunning views. A stop will be made at a Sotho village where you will get a chance to meet the locals. Have a light lunch at the top of Sani Pass before heading back to Durban. Professional tour guide, gratuities, and any applicable visa fees are included. Note that a list of pickup points is available and if your hotel is not on the list, you can contact the tour company 72 hours prior to departure to find out if it is possible to collect from your hotel. Get an early start with a 6:30 AM departure time.
4. Durban: Journey along the Epic Sani Pass & Lesotho Tour
Experience breathtaking views of Lesotho and the majestic Sani Pass on this full-day tour departing from Durban. Your journey starts with an early morning pickup from select Durban hotels, followed by a scenic drive through KwaZulu-Natal.
Once you arrive at the Sani Pass, you’ll embark on a 4×4 adventure through the winding mountain pass. Enjoy panoramic views of the rugged Drakensberg Mountains and pass through remote border posts into the kingdom of Lesotho. You’ll have the opportunity to visit a traditional Basotho village and learn about the unique culture and way of life of this high-altitude country.
Lunch is included at the summit of the pass, where you can soak up the incredible views before embarking on your return journey. Throughout the tour, bottled water is provided for your convenience.
Please note that this tour has a maximum of 6 travelers to ensure a personalized experience. It is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for travelers with back problems. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking and a flexible cancellation policy is in place for your peace of mind.
5. Sani Pass – Lesotho Mountain Kingdom
A tour to the Sani Pass in Lesotho Mountain Kingdom is a must-do when in Durban. On this tour, you’ll ride in a 4×4 up the winding dirt road to meet the locals living at 9000 feet. The scenery along the way is breathtaking and you’ll have the chance to spot elands, baboons, bearded vultures and more. A stop at the highest pub in Africa is also included in the itinerary. Hassle-free round-trip transfers are provided from your Durban hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle. This small-group tour with a maximum capacity of 15 travelers is operated by Afro Zulu tours. Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible and travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.
Frequently Asked Questions About Durban
Durban is a city located on the east coast of South Africa. It is the third largest city in the country and a popular tourist destination. If you are planning a visit to Durban, there might be some questions that you have in mind. In this post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the city.
1. What is the best time to visit Durban?
Durban enjoys a subtropical climate with warm, humid summers and mild winters. The best time to visit the city is between April and September when the weather is dry and mild. During this time, you can enjoy outdoor activities like beach visits, hiking and sightseeing without being affected by the hot and humid weather.
2. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Durban?
There are many tourist attractions in Durban that you should not miss. Some of the most popular ones include:
- The Golden Mile
- uShaka Marine World
- Moses Mabhida Stadium
- The Durban Botanical Gardens
- The Victoria Street Market
3. Is Durban a safe city to visit?
Durban, like any other major city, has its share of crime. However, most of the crimes in Durban are opportunistic and can be avoided by taking basic safety precautions. It is recommended that you avoid walking alone at night and do not flaunt expensive possessions.
4. What are the transport options available in Durban?
Durban has a well-developed public transport system that includes buses, taxis, and trains. The buses and trains are affordable and reliable, while the taxis can be more expensive. Uber and other ride-hailing services are also available in the city.
5. What are the best beaches in Durban?
Durban is famous for its long beaches along the Indian Ocean. Some of the best beaches in Durban include:
- Umhlanga Rocks
- North Beach
- South Beach
- Addington Beach
- Amanzimtoti Beach
6. What is the cuisine of Durban?
Durban has a vibrant food culture that is heavily influenced by Indian and Zulu cuisines. Some of the must-try dishes in Durban include:
- Bunny Chow – a hollowed-out bread loaf filled with curry
- Bobotie – a Cape Malay dish made with spiced mince
- Braaivleis – a South African barbecue dish
- Samosas – a popular Indian snack
7. What is the nightlife scene in Durban?
Durban has a lively nightlife scene with many clubs, bars, and restaurants. Florida Road is the hub of nightlife in Durban, and there are many options available for people of all ages and tastes.
8. What is the cost of living in Durban?
Durban is an affordable city to live in compared to other major cities in South Africa. The cost of living in Durban is dependent on your lifestyle and area of residence, but generally, it is cheaper than Johannesburg and Cape Town.
9. What is the culture of Durban?
Durban is a mix of Indian, Zulu, and colonial influences. The city has a vibrant arts and music scene, and there are many festivals and events held throughout the year, celebrating the diverse cultures of Durban.
10. What are the shopping options available in Durban?
Durban has many shopping options available, ranging from malls to markets. Some of the popular malls in Durban include Gateway Theatre of Shopping and The Pavilion Shopping Centre. Local markets like the Victoria Street Market and the Warwick Triangle offer unique shopping experiences and souvenirs.
Conclusion:
Durban has a lot to offer as a tourist destination, with its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living. With the information provided above, you can plan your visit to Durban with ease and make the most of your time in the city.
The 5 Best Indoor Activities in Durban
If you’re looking to have a good time indoors in Durban, you’re in luck, as the city boasts a variety of activities that cater to the diverse needs of its visitors. From art and cultural exhibitions to recreational activities for all ages, the city has a lot to offer.
Here are the 5 best indoor activities in Durban that you should definitely check out on your next visit:
1. Gateway Theatre of Shopping
Gateway Theatre of Shopping is the ultimate entertainment destination in Durban, featuring a wide range of activities for all age groups. From retail stores to restaurants and movie theatres, Gateway is the perfect place to spend your day indoors.
For those who love adventure, the Wavehouse is a must-visit attraction. It features the largest standing wave in the world, making it perfect for surfing enthusiasts. Additionally, the Skate Park, Ten Pin Bowling, and Laser Tag will keep you entertained for hours on end.
2. uShaka Marine World
uShaka Marine World is one of the top tourist destinations in Durban, and for good reason. The aquarium boasts the largest collection of sharks in the southern hemisphere, and visitors can also enjoy activities such as swimming with dolphins and food tasting sessions. There are also many indoor activities for kids, such as the Village Walk Shopping Centre and the Dangerous Creatures Exhibit.
3. Durban Art Gallery
If you are an art enthusiast, then the Durban Art Gallery is a must-visit attraction. Founded in 1892, it is one of the oldest galleries in South Africa, and it houses a collection of over 2500 works of art. It has exhibitions of African art, contemporary art, and ceramics. The gallery also features workshops and lectures where people can learn about different art movements and techniques.
4. Durban Natural Science Museum
The Durban Natural Science Museum is a great indoor activity for families with young children. It features a wide range of exhibits on natural history, from live snakes and spiders to dinosaur fossils. Children will love the interactive displays, and the museum also hosts various educational programs that are both fun and informative.
5. The Durban Botanic Gardens
The Durban Botanic Gardens is a tranquil oasis in the heart of the bustling city. It features a collection of indigenous and exotic plants, and it is the oldest surviving botanical garden in Africa. The garden also hosts regular events such as musical performances and art exhibitions.
In conclusion, Durban is packed with indoor activities that cater to different age groups and interests. With choices ranging from shopping malls to art galleries, aquariums, and botanical gardens, there is never a dull moment in Durban. So, the next time you find yourself in the city, be sure to check out these top 5 indoor activities for a memorable experience.
Table of Contents
