Durban is one of the most popular South African destinations because of its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and plenty of things to see and do. It is the third-largest city in the country.
The mix of Zulu, Indian and colonial cultures is reflected in Durban’s architecture and cuisine. It is also home to a number of museums, including the KwaMuhle Apartheid Museum, a place where you can learn about the past and present.
1. Visit the Golden Mile
Durban is home to a famous 5-kilometre stretch of golden sand beaches that are perfect for a day out in the sun. The Golden Mile is also home to a wide range of attractions, including uShaka Marine World, Blue Lagoon, Moses Mabhida Stadium and Mini Town.
The warm Indian Ocean and beautiful beaches attract visitors from around the world. There are many activities to do here, such as sunbathing, swimming, surfing and snorkelling.
There are a number of hotels and restaurants along the Golden Mile, where you can enjoy a delicious meal. You can also shop for souvenirs and other items from market vendors at a reasonable price.
The Golden Mile is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Durban. Known for its wide and lovely promenade that connects South Beach to Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World, it’s a place where people can enjoy a leisurely walk or an adventure filled day.
2. Visit uShaka Marine World
uShaka Marine World is one of the most popular and most renowned tourist attractions in Durban. It is a 16 hectare theme park on Durban’s Golden Mile and features the 5th largest aquarium in the world.
The park comprises of Sea World, a saltwater aquarium with indoor and outdoor displays and exhibits; an underground aquarium around five model shipwrecks; dolphin and seal stadiums; water slides; a retail village; a number of food and drink outlets and adventure sand and surf activities.
For a truly memorable day out, consider taking a tour of the entire complex with a guide. This 3-hour experience will see you enter Africa’s biggest marine theme park and explore the aquarium, dolphin and seal stadiums, the Village Walk and Ushaka Beach.
Located on Durban’s Golden Mile, uShaka Marine World brings together cultures like no other place in Africa into a safe, secure and clean environment that resonates the sound of fun, laughter and the spirit of togetherness. The world class entertainment theme park & tourism destination offers non-stop entertainment from the daytime operations of Sea World, Wet 'n Wild, Kids World and uShaka Beach to the night time festivities & eateries of the Village Walk.
3. Visit the Moses Mabhida Stadium
The Moses Mabhida Stadium is one of the most prominent sports facilities in Durban. It is a world-class stadium that hosted several events in 2010 FIFA World Cup. It is a perfect venue for soccer, cricket and other sports matches as well as corporate events.
The stadium has a seating capacity of 56 000 spectators, and can increase to a staggering 85 000 for special events. It also has 120 corporate hospitality suites for VIP visitors.
Another interesting thing to do at the stadium is to take a ride on the Sky Car. This little tram-type vehicle whisks you up to the arch of the stadium where you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of Durban.
The Stadium is one of the most popular attractions in Durban and is a hive of activity all year round. Its sport facilities, restaurants and adventure activities draw locals and visitors alike all year long.
4. Visit the KwaMuhle Museum
The KwaMuhle Museum is a fascinating place to explore the history of Durban, as well as that of the city's people. It is one of only four museums in Durban that focuses on local history, along with the Old Court House Museum, Old House Museum, and Port Natal Maritime Museum.
The museum, located on Bram Fischer Road, was once the headquarters of the Native Administration Department. This was the centre of Durban's harsh system of labour control, and was a central cog in the apartheid machinery.
Today, the KwaMuhle Museum depicts Durban as an African city searching for identity within a new political context. Its exhibits showcase town life, as well as the histories of black trade unions and ordinary residents portrayed without bias or criticism.
The museum also features an exhibition titled "The Durban System" that traces the discriminatory policies of the time. The display includes texts, black-and-white photographs and a themed environment that provides an insight into this particular form of urban control.
