2025 Durban Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

Durban is the third largest city in South Africa and a famous port city known for soccer and surfing. Here are some recommended attractions. 🚗 uShaka Marine World: One of the largest marine theme parks in South Africa, the aquarium houses thousands of fish and marine life, as well as a beach, water park, and family fun. 🚗 Moses Mabhida Stadium: Built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, this is a multi-purpose stadium. During the 2010 FIFA World Cup, it was known as Durban Stadium. 🚗 Golden Mile Beach: A favorite among South African vacationers, the 8 km coastline features upscale hotels, gardens, and a promenade. It attracts a constant stream of visitors. 🚗 The Oyster Box Hotel: A legendary hotel with nearly a century of history. Built in 1928, it has stood in Umhlanga, Durban for nearly a century and has become one of South Africa's iconic hotels, hosting many politicians, business tycoons, and celebrities.

#tripaway amazing trip to Durban !! amazing atmosphere and great food.

Moses Mabhidha stadium I have been fortunate enough to have travelled extensively around the world and done many tours. This stadium tour I cannot stress enough how good it is. From showing the locker rooms, showers, treatment facilities to the foyer where the largest bead work in the world is displayed, it has you intrigued and fascinated through out. Even all the way up into the stands to where the Press rooms are located to even where the signatories and heads of state sit, this tour is well conducted. My overall opinion is that if you ever visit Durban then this tour should be at the top of your list. #wintergetaway

it was a beautiful experience in Durban, South Africa , with my family , we had a great time .

#familytrip what a lovely place

🌟Highlights: Durban, South Africa is a charming tourist city. Durban's beaches are a major highlight, such as the famous Golden Mile, with its fine sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. uShaka Beach is also great, with various sand sculptures on the beach. ✅Must-see cultural attractions: Durban is known as the "Indian City". The "Indian Market" in the city center is full of Indian style, where you can buy spices, handicrafts, and other items, as well as taste curry and other delicacies. The Durban Museum showcases the rich history and culture of South Africa, including indigenous culture and colonial history. 👍Most recommended natural scenic spots: There are many nature reserves and national parks around Durban. The Drakensberg Mountains are not far away and are ideal for hiking and adventure. There are also botanical gardens at the foot of Berea Mountain, the scenic Mitchell Park (with a zoo), and the uMgeni River Bird Park on the south bank of the uMgeni River. ✅Must-experience: uShaka Marine World is a must-visit, with a collection of thousands of marine species. Gateway Theatre of Shopping is South Africa's largest shopping and entertainment center, with boutiques, restaurants, cinemas, and sports facilities such as skateboarding and rock climbing. 🍲Recommended dishes: Boerewors: A traditional South African sausage, often served as a barbecue or main course. Bunny chow: An Indian community delicacy, with curry ingredients filled in bread. Indian curry: Due to the large Indian community, Durban's Indian curry is very authentic, with a variety of options including vegetables, meat, and seafood. Seafood: Durban, which is close to the sea, has fresh seafood, where you can taste various fish, shellfish, and shrimp. 🏨Hotel environment: Luxury: The Oyster Box Hotel, with high ratings, delicious drinks and food, and good views. The Beverly Hills Hotel, with delicious meals. Boutique B&B: The Oyster Inn, facing the sea, with a beautiful environment. 🚉Transportation tips: For external transportation, you can first fly to Durban's King Shaka International Airport. For internal transportation, there is public transportation, you can also call a car through Uber, or you can choose bicycle rental, which is environmentally friendly and convenient. 📝Tips: In short, Durban combines natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse cuisine, which can bring an unforgettable experience to tourists.

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 💡 Tips

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 💡 Tips

Upon entering the lobby, you'll find complete hotel facilities and services, and well-equipped rooms. The hotel has 160 air-conditioned rooms, offering free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, cable channels, complimentary bottled water, ironing facilities, in-room safes, and more. Some rooms even feature sofa seating areas, balconies, or patios, providing guests with a comfortable living environment. **Diverse Dining Options**: The hotel restaurant serves continental cuisine and offers a daily breakfast buffet. Guests can also unwind at the bar/lounge after a busy day. **Abundant Leisure and Fitness Facilities**: The hotel features a fitness center, terrace, and garden, allowing guests to exercise or enjoy the beautiful scenery during their leisure time. 4. **Attentive Business Services**: Equipped with a business center, dry cleaning/laundry services, 24-hour front desk service, and a banquet hall, the hotel caters to the needs of business travelers. 5. **Other Considerate Services**: The hotel provides free self-parking, airport shuttle service, babysitting, kids' meals, and even allows pets, offering convenience for all types of guests. III. Check-in Experience **Efficient Check-in**: The front desk staff is warm and friendly, and the check-in process is quick. They can promptly address guests' issues and provide professional advice and service. **Clean and Tidy Rooms**: The rooms are warmly and comfortably furnished, with excellent hygiene. The bedding is soft and comfortable, ensuring guests a good night's sleep. **Pleasant Dining Experience**: The breakfast offers a wide variety of delicious food, the restaurant environment is elegant, and the service is attentive. The drinks served at the bar are also popular among guests. **Pleasant Overall Atmosphere**: The hotel's unique decoration style incorporates elements of African culture, creating a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. The public areas are clean and tidy, adorned with greenery, making guests feel comfortable and at ease. Overall, the Onomo Hotel Durban is a cost-effective hotel. Its excellent location, comprehensive facilities, and attentive service can meet the needs of different guests, making it a great choice for both leisure and business trips.

| I found my dream hotel in Durban! South Africa Accommodation 💯| I found my dream hotel in Durban😭! ✅During the 9-day Eid holiday at the beginning of April, I had a great time traveling around Durban and Cape Town in South Africa. As a hardcore planner, I did all sorts of research six months in advance (November), and I didn't encounter any bad accommodations on this trip! Especially this hotel in Durban, my travel buddy said that she had stayed in so many five-star hotels in the UAE, but this one was the most beautiful!🥰 🌷 ✅The hotel is located in Durban city, near North Durban, where there are relatively more white people and better security. It's on a small slope, in a row of small villas. The entrance isn't particularly noticeable, but it's easy to find with Google Maps.🍇 🌈 ✅I guess because it's a private courtyard, cars can only be parked in the small courtyard. It can barely fit four cars, which is a bit crowded, but not a big problem.🍰 Getting out of the car and walking up the steps to the house, it's like traveling back to the Victorian era. The red and white color scheme, the small blue swimming pool, the red brick white walls, the lush green ivy, and the fresh air after the rain are simply intoxicating. The dining room, kitchen, living room, corridor, guest rooms, bathroom, and even the patio all have a strong sense of the era. The owner's taste is truly amazing.🌹

The moment I stepped off the plane in Durban, I was hit by a wave of heat. I felt a bit overpacked, like a snail carrying a heavy load. However, this didn't dampen my enthusiasm for exploring this treasure city. First stop, the Golden Mile! The sand was incredibly soft, like freshly spun cotton candy. I didn't want to lift my feet after stepping on it. The seawater was unbelievably blue, and I plunged right in, playing a game of tag with the waves. A guy nearby was surfing like a pro, weaving through the waves with such skill that I was mesmerized. I thought to myself, "This guy is truly a son of the sea!" After all the fun, my stomach started rumbling in protest, so I headed straight for the food stalls. South African barbecue was a must-try. Chunks of meat sizzled on the grill, dripping with oil. I took a bite, and wow! It was so delicious I almost swallowed my tongue. Then there were the samosas, uniquely shaped and incredibly flavorful. Each bite was an explosion of spices in my mouth. In the afternoon, I wandered over to uShaka Marine World, a massive party for marine life! Penguins waddled around like gentlemen in tuxedos, occasionally putting on a "diving show" that made everyone laugh. The dolphins and seals were incredibly smart, performing all sorts of impressive tricks. I seriously suspected they had secretly participated in the "Animal Olympics." Leaving the marine world, I explored Durban's old streets. The architectural styles were incredibly diverse, from European to African, with all sorts of mixed styles. It felt like stepping into a wondrous world of architectural fusion. The small shops were filled with dazzling handicrafts. I was spoiled for choice and wished I could take the whole store home. As evening fell, Durban's nightlife was just getting started. The streets and alleys were bustling with activity, filled with music and laughter. I ducked into a bar where the people were as enthusiastic as a bonfire, pulling me onto the dance floor. Even with my tone-deaf voice and uncoordinated limbs, I swayed to the rhythm. At that moment, I felt like the "King of Durban Dance"! Every day in Durban was like opening a blind box, full of surprises. There's the passionate sunshine, finger-licking good food, dazzling scenery, and a group of locals who can infect you with their joy. Durban, South Africa, is definitely a treasure city that travel enthusiasts must visit in their lifetime!

1️⃣ Preparation Get a South African visa, book round-trip air tickets (6,000 - 10,000 yuan), and choose accommodation (superior 1,000 - 3,000 yuan/night, economy 300 - 800 yuan/night). 2️⃣Itinerary ✅First day: Put the luggage at the hotel, eat bunny chow for lunch (50-80 yuan/person), visit Ushaka Ocean World in the afternoon (ticket price 200-300 yuan), and eat seafood 🦞 in the evening (150-300 yuan/person). ✅Second day: Visit Durban Botanical Gardens in the morning (free), have a light lunch at noon (50-100 yuan/person), go to Golden Mile Beach in the afternoon to rent a surfing board for 50-100 yuan/hour, and have a drink at the bar at night (100-200 yuan/person). ✅Day 3: Visit the City Hall and other places (free) 🆓 Have lunch at a small restaurant (50-80 yuan/person), visit Victoria Street Market in the afternoon to buy souvenirs, and prepare for the return trip. 3️⃣Transportation Guide From the airport to the city: bus fare is about 40 yuan, taxi fare is about 200 yuan; you can rent a car in the city (300-800 yuan/day), take a minibus taxi or use Uber. 4️⃣Spending budget Excluding shopping, the average per capita expenditure is about 8,000 to 15,000 yuan, including air tickets, accommodation, meals, tickets and entertainment, depending on personal consumption habits.

🔥Durban Adventure Guide: Beautiful Paradise or Dangerous Minefield?🚀 👋 Hey there, adventurers! Today, we're diving into a destination brimming with contradictory charm—Durban, South Africa! This city, synonymous with football passion and surfing paradise, also harbors unsettling elements. 🤔 Ready? Let's embark on this beautiful yet perilous journey!🚀 📍 Itinerary: Unlocking Durban's Two Sides🗺️ First, upon landing at King Shaka International Airport✈️, remember to book your airport transfer in advance! While I've heard taxis are the "adventurer's" choice (said with a mix of laughter and tears😂), for safety's sake, I recommend pre-booked transportation. Safety first, beauty second!🛡️ Our first stop is uMhlanga Rocks Beach🏖️! The breathtaking seascape, where golden sands meet azure waters, paints a stunning picture. Strolling along the coastline, basking in the perfect weather, is pure bliss for the soul!✨ But hold on, Durban's allure doesn't end there. Next, gather your courage and step into the city center🏙️, a place seemingly lost in time. The old buildings whisper tales of past glory, yet also hint at a sense of desolation. It's best to stay in your hotel at night in Durban, as safety is paramount when traveling.🌙 🚗 Transportation: Caution is Key in Durban👑 Speaking of transportation, while Durban's public transport system has room for improvement, renting a car or booking a private car is a relatively safer option. Remember to install a tracking app and stay vigilant!🚨 As for my "unforgettable" taxi experience...well, let's save that for another time!😱 ✈️ Flight Tips: Things to Note When Flying to Durban✈️ When booking flights, pay attention to seasonal changes and promotions. Flight prices to South Africa soar during peak tourist season. Planning ahead not only saves money but also helps avoid crowds. Don't forget travel insurance—safety first!💼 🍽️ Culinary Exploration: A Taste of Durban🍴 Durban's culinary scene is diverse, offering everything from authentic Western cuisine and fresh seafood to familiar Chinese restaurants. For adventurous palates, try local specialties like chili-spiced seafood feasts—a fiery yet fresh explosion of flavors!🌶️🦐 🏛️ City Impressions: Infrastructure and Economic Fluctuations📈📉 Walking Durban's streets, it's clear the city's infrastructure is relatively solid, surpassing that of some developing countries. South Africa was once a developed nation, but time and economic fluctuations have left their mark on this land.🏙️💭 💭 Regrets and Expectations: The Unfinished Journey🌄 Due to work and safety concerns, my Cape Town dream and Kruger National Park adventure had to be put on hold.😢 But every regret paves the way for the next journey. I believe there will be safer and more beautiful opportunities to return.🌟 🏷️ Durban: A Love-Hate Travel Memory💌 Durban, this beautiful yet dangerous city, is like a box of chocolates—you never know what you're gonna get.🍫 But it's this very uncertainty that makes travel so exciting. If the safety index were a bit higher, I might love it even more. But as a friend said, every city has its unique charm, including its imperfections.🌍❤️

👍 Recommendation: Sharing my check-in experience at the Holiday Inn Express Durban - Umhlanga 🏘 Room Type/Layout: The Holiday Inn Express Durban - Umhlanga offers 234 spacious and comfortable rooms, each equipped with a flat-screen TV, allowing you to enjoy high-quality audio-visual entertainment even while traveling. The rooms feature a modern and minimalist design with a practical layout, catering to the needs of both business travelers and families. The ocean view rooms are particularly impressive; simply open the window to take in the breathtaking seascape, making your stay even more memorable. 🧹 Soundproofing/Cleanliness: The hotel places great emphasis on the guest experience, with each room meticulously cleaned and disinfected to ensure a spotless environment. The soundproofing is also excellent, providing a quiet and restful atmosphere at night, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Having stayed here for a month and a half, my strongest impression is the hotel's cleanliness and tidiness. Every time I returned to my room, I was greeted by a sense of comfort and relaxation. 🏕 Nearby Attractions: Located in the business district, the Holiday Inn Express Durban - Umhlanga boasts a prime location, less than a 15-minute drive from both Durban Beach and Umhlanga Rocks Beach, making it ideal for beach lovers. uShaka Marine World is also just 18 km away, a perfect destination for families. The hotel is surrounded by commercial streets, offering a wide array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options to enrich your travel experience. 💗 Other Tips: Breakfast: The hotel's complimentary breakfast buffet offers a wide variety of both Chinese and Western options to satisfy every palate. Fitness Facilities: While the gym is not large, it is well-equipped and suitable for guests who enjoy working out. Transportation: The hotel is conveniently located with easy access to taxis and public transportation. A paid airport shuttle service is also available for hassle-free arrival and departure. Personal Items: Remember to bring your own slippers and toothbrush when staying in hotels in South Africa, as these are generally not provided. Service: While there's room for improvement in the hotel's service, it is generally quite good. The front desk staff, in particular, are friendly, enthusiastic, and always willing to help. Summary: The Holiday Inn Express Durban - Umhlanga is an excellent choice for both business and leisure travelers. It boasts a prime location, proximity to various attractions, clean and hygienic facilities, well-designed rooms, and a delicious and varied breakfast. I choose to stay here every time I visit Durban, not only for its convenient location but also for the safety of the surrounding area. It's a truly excellent accommodation option. If you're planning a trip to Durban, be sure to consider this hotel!

As soon as you enter the lobby, the exquisite decor and welcoming staff make you feel right at home. The spacious lobby is furnished with comfortable sofas and chairs, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Upon entering the room, the luxurious decor and comfortable furniture instantly make you feel relaxed. The rooms are well-equipped, and the bathroom design is equally impressive, with luxurious and fully functional amenities. The hotel's service is also outstanding. From the restaurant chefs to the room service staff, everyone serves guests with professionalism and enthusiasm. The restaurant offers a variety of cuisines, catering to every guest's needs, whether they prefer Western dishes or local specialties. Overall, the hotel provides an unparalleled check-in experience with its exceptional service and facilities. It's not just a place to rest, but a place to enjoy life and relax.

Car hire from Hertz. King Shaka Airport. Most convenient and affordable. No hassle. Best service.

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 1.Pavilion Hotel Durban 💡 Tips

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 1.Parade Hotel 💡 Tips

We've visited uShaka in Durban many many times since it opened over 20 years ago. It's part of our annual trip to Durban and every time it's better than I can remember. The marine life is incredible and you can spend hours in awe. One of those special places that you hope will be around for forever. We'll be back many times. #visitdurban #ushaka

Had this nice platter at Rocco Mamas at a very affordable price Getting There - it’s 10-15 min drive from king Shaka airport and 30 minutes from city center Attractions - lot to do close to the Umhlanga beach Hotels - There are so many hotels to choose from Food & Restaurants - plenty of western restaurants and bars Shopping - lots of clothing , gadgets and food stores #Rocco Mamas #durbansouthafrica #Gateway shopping center

#getgoing2025 uShaka Marine World: A Family-Friendly Adventure in Durban Located in Durban, South Africa, uShaka Marine World is one of the largest marine parks in Africa, offering an exciting combination of water-based attractions, animal exhibits, and entertainment. It’s a must-visit destination for families, thrill-seekers, and animal lovers alike. Key Features • Marine Animal Exhibits: Explore aquariums with a variety of marine life, including sharks, dolphins, sea turtles, and colorful fish. • Water Park: Enjoy water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers at the Wet ‘n Wild water park, perfect for a day of fun in the sun. • Dolphin and Seal Shows: Watch entertaining and educational performances by dolphins and seals. • uShaka Village Walk: A shopping and dining area offering local crafts, restaurants, and bars with ocean views. • Snorkeling and Diving: Experience close encounters with marine life through guided snorkeling or diving in the aquarium’s open tanks. Tips for Visiting • Arrive Early: To make the most of your day, arrive early to explore the park and catch the animal shows. • Wear Swimwear: Bring a swimsuit if you plan to enjoy the water park attractions. • Check Show Times: Plan your visit around the dolphin and seal shows to ensure you don’t miss them. • Stay Hydrated: The park can get hot, so carry water and wear sunscreen to stay comfortable. uShaka Marine World is an exciting and educational destination, offering a perfect mix of aquatic adventures and family-friendly entertainment in the heart of Durban.

Durban, South Africa 🌊🌴 Durban, located on South Africa’s stunning east coast, is a vibrant city where golden beaches meet a rich cultural tapestry. Known for its subtropical climate and warm Indian Ocean waters, Durban is a paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. 🏖️🌞 One of the city’s highlights is the Golden Mile, a stretch of beachfront promenade perfect for walking, cycling, or simply soaking up the sun. 🌅 With its long stretches of sand, Durban offers world-class surfing and water sports opportunities, making it a hotspot for thrill-seekers. 🏄♂️ But Durban is more than just a beach destination. The city boasts a rich cultural heritage influenced by its Zulu, Indian, and colonial roots. A visit to the vibrant Victoria Street Market immerses you in the city’s Indian culture, with aromatic spices, colorful textiles, and delicious street food like bunny chow—a must-try local dish! 🍛🧄 For those interested in history, a visit to the KwaMuhle Museum and uShaka Marine World is essential. 🐠 The latter combines an aquarium, water park, and entertainment hub, offering something for everyone. If you're feeling adventurous, take a drive along the Valley of 1,000 Hills, where breathtaking landscapes meet Zulu cultural experiences. 🌄 Durban is also known for its lush greenery. The Durban Botanic Gardens, one of the oldest in Africa, is a peaceful escape filled with exotic plants and birdlife. 🌺🦜 The city’s nightlife is as lively as its beaches, with rooftop bars, beachfront lounges, and a variety of restaurants offering everything from fresh seafood 🦞 to traditional Zulu dishes. Warm, welcoming, and full of life, Durban is a city that blends relaxation and excitement, offering unforgettable experiences for every traveler. 🌟

Durban 🌊✨—a city that feels like a warm embrace! Nestled along the Indian Ocean, it’s a slice of paradise that blends natural beauty, vibrant culture, and endless energy. From the golden beaches 🏖️ where the waves sing a soothing melody, to the bustling markets 🛍️ bursting with colors and flavors, every corner of Durban tells a story. 🌸🌴 The people? Oh, they’re the heartbeat of this place—friendly smiles 😄 and welcoming spirits make you feel at home instantly. Whether you're walking along the iconic Golden Mile 🌅, savoring the spicy delights of a bunny chow 🍛, or immersing yourself in the rich Zulu heritage 🎶🖤, Durban is pure magic. It’s not just a destination; it’s a feeling—a vibrant movement 🌟 that leaves you inspired and recharged. ✨ If you’re looking for beauty, culture, and life’s simple joys all in one place, Durban is where your heart will dance! 💃💙