Meet Durban, South Africa's playground

CCloser to the harbour, uShaka Marine World – a world-class water park, aquarium (with fish, dolphins, seals, penguins and other sea life) and restaurant complex – overlooks the ocean and offers hours of entertainment for your whole family.

Culturally, Durban exhibits a mix of Indian, Zulu and post-colonial influences, reflected in the city’s architecture and cuisine. Curries, seafood and fusion food are popular at beachfront restaurants, Wilson’s Wharf, and at the gourmet hot spots and coffee shops that line Florida Road and Helen Joseph Road.

The art deco-style Suncoast Hotel and Casino complex, flanking the promenade, houses seafood and curry restaurants, movie theatres, a casino and coffee shops – with secure on-site parking and semi-private beach access.

Shopping is best enjoyed at Durban’s out-of-city malls: the Gateway Theatre of Shopping in Umhlanga; the Pavilion in Westville; and the Galleria in Amanzimtoti. An overwhelming choice of shops in air-conditioned comfort makes spending money a most enjoyable pursuit.

HHalf an hour inland from the city, the Valley of a Thousand Hills promises a taste of African culture, while further into the countryside, the Midlands Meander features about 150 art-and-craft outlets for city-dwellers in search of fresh air and homemade fare.

Adventure activities are well catered for in and around this coastal city, with deep-sea fishing charters, dolphin viewing, jet-skiing, shark-cage diving, quad biking, scuba diving, hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, boat cruises and much more readily available.

Durban is the centre of world-class sports and hosts major international events. It is a shopper’s paradise with entertainment and hospitality establishments, offering a wide range of accommodation from beachfront hotels to themed lodges, guesthouses, self-catering apartments and homely B&Bs. We suggest you make this your next holiday destination.