Durban is a coastal city located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Known for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and abundance of outdoor activities, Durban is the perfect destination for your next day trip adventure. Whether you’re a local or a traveler visiting for the first time, there are plenty of amazing places to explore just a short distance from the city. In this post, we’ll explore the five best day trips in Durban, highlighting the must-see sights, activities, and hidden gems that you won’t want to miss. So, pack your bags and get ready to hit the road – Durban’s adventure awaits.
The 5 Best Day Trips in Durban
- Sani Pass: Day Tour from Durban
- Full Day Sani Pass and Lesotho Tour from Durban in 4X4
- 5 Day Zululand – Lion & Elephant & Drakensberg Safari Tour from Durban
- Luxury 5-Day Lesotho, Drakensberg & Safari Tour from Durban
- Sani Pass & Lesotho 4×4 Experience Day Tour from Durban
The 5 Best Day Trips in Durban
1. Sani Pass: Day Tour from Durban
Beginning early at 6:00AM, a professional driver will collect you from your hotel in Durban in a well-maintained vehicle. After passing the historical city of Pietermaritsburg, your tour will turn towards the Southern Drakensberg Mountain Range. For the next hour, you will pass through mountains and valleys dotted with small rural villages steeped in traditions. At around 9:00AM, you will arrive at the tiny mountain town of Underberg, where you will transfer to a comfortable 4-wheel-drive vehicle. The Sani Pass is without a doubt one of the most spectacular and scenic mountain passes in Africa, and it lies between the Southern Drakensburg Mountains and the landlocked country of Lesotho. You’ll visit the highest pub in Africa and a Basotho village to interact with the local community. On your return, you’ll travel via the steep hair-pin bends of the Sani Pass. This day tour from Durban promises to leave you with unforgettable memories of the South African landscape and its people.
2. Full Day Sani Pass and Lesotho Tour from Durban in 4X4
Combine the urban and the scenic on this full-day tour from Durban. Take a tour of Pietermaritzburg, the capital city of KwaZulu-Natal, followed by a visit to Mahatma Gandhi’s statue at the City Hall. Then, conquer the Sani Pass, a rugged mountain road that takes you to the neighboring country of Lesotho, and enjoy the beautiful expansive views. Cross the border and visit a local village and the highest-altitude pub in Africa while having a refreshing drink. This private tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected), driver/guide, and lunch. You can head directly to the meeting point or request a pickup to start the tour. The activity ends back at the meeting point. This tour offers an excellent opportunity to explore the best of urban and mountain terrain in one day.
3. 5 Day Zululand – Lion & Elephant & Drakensberg Safari Tour from Durban
This 5-day safari tour from Durban is perfect for those looking to explore KwaZulu-Natal without the stress and hassle of planning. The tour includes accommodation and most meals, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Spend two nights in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park Wilderness Area going on game drives and guided walks, where you’ll have the opportunity to see the Big Five and learn about Zulu culture. Follow this up with a trip to the Drakensberg Mountains, where you can admire San/Bushman rock art and look for game in Giants Castle. You’ll also have the opportunity to watch Zulu dances and visit a community in a traditional boma enclosure. With bottled water and pick-ups and drop-offs from any point in Durban included, this tour provides a generous package to ensure a seamless experience.
4. Luxury 5-Day Lesotho, Drakensberg & Safari Tour from Durban
Experience the adventure and luxury of a 5-day tour through the vibrant cultural destinations of Lesotho, Drakensberg, and a thrilling wildlife safari. Explore the magnificent rock formations, waterfalls, and breathe-taking mountain scenery of Sani Pass. Visit the traditional village of Malealea with its unique Basotho culture and enjoy a horseback ride through the picturesque mountains. Take a guided tour of the Bushman rock art at Giants’ Castle followed by a rejuvenating dip in the natural rock pools. Embark on an exciting Big Five game drive in Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park, one of the most spectacular wildlife reserves in South Africa with an extraordinary diversity of flora and fauna. You will be treated to delectable meals with breakfast, lunch and dinner included throughout the tour. Transportation is wheelchair accessible while infant seats are also available for a comfortable journey. Book your luxury 5-Day Lesotho, Drakensberg & Safari Tour from Durban today and experience the ultimate African adventure.
5. Sani Pass & Lesotho 4×4 Experience Day Tour from Durban
Experience the stunning beauty of Sani Pass via 4×4 vehicle on a day trip from Durban into the mountain kingdom of Lesotho and back. This excursion offers breathtaking views of the World Heritage Suni Pass, a steep pass rising 9429-feet above sea level. The tour also includes a visit to a traditional Sotho village filled with huts built around a central area filled with livestock. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with local Sotho people and learn about their culture. Afterward, savor incredible views while enjoying lunch (own expense) at Africa’s highest pub. This excursion is an ideal day trip for both families and solo travelers who want to explore two countries in one day. The tour includes a local guide, driver/guide, hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only), and alcoholic drinks are available for purchase.
The Ultimate Guide to Durban, South Africa: Frequently Asked Questions
Durban, situated on the east coast of South Africa, is a popular tourist destination for both locals and international visitors. The city boasts beautiful beaches, a warm climate all year round, and a rich cultural history. Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions about Durban.
1. What is the best time to visit Durban?
Durban is a year-round destination, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. However, the best time to visit is during the winter months between May and August. During this time, the humidity is lower, and the temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor activities. The summer months between November and February can be incredibly hot and humid, which can be uncomfortable for some visitors.
2. What are the best beaches in Durban?
Durban has several beautiful beaches, each offering something unique. Some of the most popular beaches include:
- Umhlanga Rocks
- uShaka Beach
- North Beach
- South Beach
Umhlanga Rocks is a popular beach among tourists, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean and plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby. uShaka Beach is located next to uShaka Marine World, a popular theme park, and aquarium. North Beach and South Beach are located in the heart of Durban and offer a range of activities, including surfing, swimming, and beach volleyball.
3. What is the best way to get around Durban?
Durban has a reliable public transportation system, including buses, minivans, and trains. However, the most convenient way to get around Durban is by car. There are several car rental companies located at the airport or in the city center. Taxi services are also available, but they can be quite expensive.
4. What are the top tourist attractions in Durban?
Durban has a range of cultural and natural attractions, including:
- The Golden Mile
- uShaka Marine World
- Moses Mabhida Stadium
- Victoria Street Market
- Gateway Theatre of Shopping
The Golden Mile is a popular beachfront promenade that runs along the coast of Durban, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean. uShaka Marine World is a theme park and aquarium, offering a range of activities for visitors of all ages. Moses Mabhida Stadium is a famous landmark in Durban and is best known for its sky car ride, offering panoramic views of the city. The Victoria Street Market is a bustling marketplace, offering a range of African-inspired products and souvenirs. Gateway Theatre of Shopping is one of the largest shopping centers in South Africa, offering over 390 stores and a range of entertainment options.
5. What is Durban’s food culture like?
Durban has a rich food culture, heavily influenced by Indian cuisine. Some of the popular dishes include Bunny Chow, a type of curry served in a hollowed-out loaf of bread, and Durban-style curry, which is known for its spicy flavors. Seafood is also popular in Durban, with a range of fresh fish and seafood available at the local markets and restaurants.
6. What are the safety concerns in Durban?
Like any large city, Durban has its own safety concerns, including petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft. It is important to take precautions, such as not displaying valuable items and avoiding walking in quiet or unfamiliar areas at night. Visitors should also be aware of the potential risks associated with swimming at the beaches, as there have been incidents of shark attacks in the past.
Conclusion
Durban is a vibrant and exciting city, offering a range of cultural and natural attractions for visitors. Whether you are looking to relax on the beach, explore the local markets, or indulge in the local cuisine, Durban has something for everyone. As with any travel destination, it is important to take precautions and be aware of the potential risks, but with proper planning and preparation, Durban can be a safe and enjoyable destination for all.
The 5 Best Day Trips in Durban: FAQ
Durban, a coastal city on South Africa’s east coast, is a popular tourist destination with plenty to see and do. However, if you’re looking to get out of the city for a day, there are several fantastic day trip options to choose from. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the 5 best day trips in Durban.
1. What is the Valley of a Thousand Hills, and what are some fun things to do there?
The Valley of a Thousand Hills is a gorgeous area just outside Durban that features rolling hills, scenic views, and plenty of outdoor activities. Some of the most popular things to do there include:
- Visiting the Phezulu Safari Park to see crocodiles, snakes, and other wildlife
- Taking a scenic drive through the hills and stopping off for a picnic
- Going on a hot air balloon ride to see the stunning views from above
- Exploring the quaint villages and local craft markets that dot the area
2. What is the Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve, and why is it worth a visit?
The Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve is another popular day trip option from Durban. This area features rugged cliffs, dense forests, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Some of the most popular things to do there include:
- Hiking the nature trails to see the stunning waterfalls and views
- Ziplining across the gorge for a thrilling adrenaline rush
- Going on a guided game drive to see the local wildlife, such as giraffes and zebras
- Visiting the suspension bridge for a breathtaking view of the gorge below
3. What is the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and why is it a must-see day trip from Durban?
The iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most biodiverse areas in South Africa. This park covers a huge area and features everything from wetlands and beaches to forests and grasslands. Some of the most popular things to do there include:
- Taking a boat tour to see the hippos and crocodiles in the estuary
- Going on a game drive to see the local wildlife, such as elephants and rhinos
- Relaxing on the pristine beaches and swimming in the warm Indian Ocean waters
- Exploring the local cultural and historical sites, such as the Thonga fish traps and Kosi Bay Mouth traditional fish traps
4. What is the Tala Game Reserve, and why is it a great day trip option for families?
The Tala Game Reserve is a privately owned reserve located about an hour outside Durban. This reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, such as giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest. Some of the most popular things to do there include:
- Going on a guided game drive to see the local wildlife up close
- Taking a horseback riding tour through the reserve to see the animals from a different perspective
- Visiting the various bird hides to see the many species of birds that call the reserve home
- Enjoying a relaxing picnic or braai in one of the reserve’s designated picnic areas
5. What is the uShaka Marine World, and why is it a great day trip option for families with young children?
Finally, for those looking for something closer to the city, the uShaka Marine World is a fantastic day trip option. This theme park and aquarium is located right on Durban’s beachfront and features plenty of fun attractions for kids and adults alike. Some of the most popular things to do there include:
- Going on a thrilling water slide or lazy river ride in Wet ‘n Wild water park
- Visiting the aquarium to see the many species of marine life, including sharks, dolphins, and penguins
- Enjoying a live show featuring dolphins or seals at the Dolphin Stadium
- Browsing the many shops and restaurants throughout the park
Conclusion
Durban is a city with no shortage of things to see and do, but if you’re looking to get out of the city for a day, there are plenty of fantastic day trip options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, wildlife spotting, or family-friendly attractions, there’s something for everyone just a short drive from Durban. We hope this post has provided you with some helpful information and inspiration for your next day trip from Durban.
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