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 Durban’s top tourist spots

Durban’s top tourist spots

Private Property South Africa
Megan Deane

Durban boasts incredible summer weather, is a melting pot of cultures and has an array of attractions.

From heritage sites, to tasty foods, beach getaways and adrenalin-pumping activities, the list is endless.

“It is going to be a bumper festive season in Durban, as over 1,4 million visitors are expected to land on our shores to enjoy a ‘sunsational’ and memorable summer holiday,” says Philip Sithole, head, Durban Tourism.

We would like to encourage all our visitors to venture to new hidden gems and tourism routes this holiday. Spend time with the locals at popular township restaurants and get absorbed into the rich history and culture of our vibrant city at the various tourism nodes.

We take a closer look at some of the popular tourist places and discover what the areas offer visitors.

Durban Point Beachfront

A visit to Durban is not complete without going to the beach. More specifically spending a day at Durban Point Beachfront, where you will find a myriad activities, restaurants and apartments to rent while you are on holiday. Home to the popular uShaka Marine World, this attraction is ideal for families, and will keep the kids entertained all day.

Valley of a Thousand Hills

An old favourite for both locals and tourists, the Valley of a Thousand Hills is nestled in Botha’s Hill. A 30-minute drive from Durban Central, the area has breath-taking views of lush green rolling hills and unspoilt natural surroundings. It is renowned for its warm country hospitality, eateries with delicious food, trail walking paths and wildlife. Close to this area, you can experience the rich Zulu heritage at PheZulu Game Park, or taste some craft beer from the Porcupine Quill Brewing Company.

Woza eNanda Heritage Route

Taking tourists on an adventure through some important, yet little known, historical sites, Woza eNanda Heritage Route winds through the Inanda Valley. “The Woza eNanda Heritage Route has a strong appeal to our young adventure tourists. It is a place where you can canoe, mountain bike, hire a quad bike or have coffee at one of the most breathtaking spots in Durban, Wushwini, that overlooks the Inanda Dam,” says Sithole.

These three areas are just a fraction of what Durban has to offer.

Summer attractions:

  • Fact Durban Rocks
  • Durban Jazz Festival
  • Durban Underground
  • Vodacom Beach Festival
  • Indlamu Cultural and Traditional Festival
  • Woze Durban Picnic
  • Umgababa New Year’s Picnic

This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.

Take a trip through Durban Central here:

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Explore neighbourhoods mentioned in this article

Durban Central
Beach meets business
Durban Central is a diverse, colourful neighbourhood that includes the beachfront areas, the Berea, Morningside, Glenwood, Musgrave and the CBD. The beach is the biggest attraction and locals flock the promenade to cycle, run, surf, swim, fish or just catch some sun. There are also incredibly lush parks and open spaces dotted around the neighbourhod for residents to take advantage of. The nightlife in Durban Central is exciting with numerous bars, pubs, restaurants and night clubs in close proximity to each other. As its name implies, Durban Central's location makes it convenient to get to any of the other areas around Durban.
Durban North
Small sophisticated suburb
Durban North is an established small suburb where the people are friendly, and the surroundings are beautiful. It is a family-oriented area with many activities available. Situated between Durban central and Umhlanga, all amenities and schools are located only minutes away. The area boasts spectacular sea and city views. Although it is centrally and conveniently located, living in Durban North feels very much like living in a small town.
Durban South
Seaside suburbs of the South
Durban South has a very family-like feel to it, with spacious homes at affordable prices. Enjoy quiet neighbourhoods and great community living, amongst a diverse range of cultures. The area feels warm and welcoming to anyone and everyone. This part of Durban offers convenient access to beaches, malls, and good schools. It's suburban bliss, just a stone's throw away from the city of Durban. It's the ideal place for those wanting to retire near the seaside.