Durban boasts a subtropical climate, warm waters and long stretches of beach, but let me tell you ─ Durban has so much more to offer! TravelGround found 11 activities you can enjoy while exploring this coastal city.
1. Durban Botanic Gardens
The Durban Botanic Gardens is open every day of the year and is a great place to spend lazy afternoons between the subtropical flora.
Cost: Free
Trading hours: Summer months (16 September to 15 April): 7:30 to 17:45 daily | Winter months (16 April to 15 September): 7:30 to 17:30 daily
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2. Jameson Park
Jameson Park is adjacent to Mitchell Park and was once a pineapple plantation. Now, it’s a rose haven, boasting 600 rose bushes consisting of 200 species. It is the ideal spot to sit back and read, or have a romantic picnic.
Cost: Free
Trading hours: Monday to Sunday
3. Durban Natural Science Museum
This museum houses various fascinating objects, such as stuffed insects, birds, fish and reptiles that mark evidence of a bygone era on earth. Visitors can also enjoy the Hall of Earth Sciences Gallery, meet an authentic Egyptian Mummy and view the informative exhibitions on the origins of Africa.
Cost: Free
Trading hours: Monday to Saturday: 8:30 to 16:00 | Sunday and public holidays: 11:00 to 16:00 | Closed on Christmas and Good Friday
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4. The Victoria Street Market
You can browse around this indoor hub of activity throughout the year. It offers everything from Indian spices and incenses, to fresh fruits and vegetables, fabrics, ceramics, and arts and craft. Come take a look at Durban’s oldest market, there is definitely something for everyone around each corner!
Cost: Free
Trading hours: Monday to Friday: 8:00 to 17:00 | Saturday: 8:00 to 16:00 | Sundays: 9:00 to 15:00
5. The Fun Company
Are you searching for some family fun? The Fun Company at The Pavilion Westville has something for everyone, from bumper cars to tenpin bowling. If you are willing to drive a little further, the branch at Galleria Mall in Amanzimtoti boasts a mini-golf adventure with a twist. You will receive a glow-in-the-dark golf ball and the opportunity to test your skills on a 9 or 18-hole miniature golf course.
Cost: From R38 p.p., prices varies according to the activity.
Trading hours: Sunday to Thursday: 9:00 to 23:00 | Friday to Saturday: 9:00 to 00:00
6. Gondola Rides
Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day or night gondola ride on the lovely Point Waterfront Canal. Be prepared and make your bookings easily online.
Cost: R60 p.p. for 15 minutes or R120 p.p. for 30 minutes. Special packages are also available.
Trading hours: Day rides from 10:30 to 17:45 and night rides from 18:00 to 19:30
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7. Try a bunny chow
Never had a bunny chow? Try one of the best bunnies in Durban and head to Capsicum Restaurant at the Britannia Hotel! Fillings include trotters, tripe, chops, mince, prawn, and boneless mutton.
Cost: R65 to R97 per bunny chow
Trading hours: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday: 7:00 to 20:30 | Wednesday to Saturday: 7:00 to 21:30
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8. SkyCar at the Moses Mabhida Stadium
For the most spectacular view of Durban, this must-see attraction is a bucket-list activity for locals and tourists. From a 106 m-high vantage point, visitors will have a bird’s-eye view.
Cost: R60 per adult, R30 per child under 12 years, free for children under 6 years.
Trading hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:00 to 17:00 (last SkyCar trip: 16:30).
9. Snorkel Lagoon at uShaka Marine World
Explore life underwater in the Snorkel Lagoon at uShaka Marine World to see all sorts of colourful fish and coral. Entrance to uShaka Beach and uShaka Village is free and open all year round.
Cost: R103 p.p. for 30 minutes and R149 p.p. for one hour. All children above 5 years are welcome.
Trading hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 10:00 to 17:00
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10. Ride a rickshaw
In the early 20th century, rickshaws were used as everyday transport but today it serves as a feature of the past and is a true tourist delight for children and adults. So, hitch a ride on a 3-wheeled rickshaw and enjoy a scenic drive along the Golden Mile.
Cost: From R20 per person
Trading hours: Monday to Sunday: They determine their own trading hours, but are usually available on the promenade from early morning until 17:00.
11. Durban Ice Arena
The recently refurbished Durban Ice Arena promises a day of the coolest fun for the whole family. Come and try your hand (or shall I say foot) at ice skating!
Cost: R90 – R100, includes skates, R50 per spectator
Trading hours during the holiday: Monday to Thursday: 10:00 to 13:00; 14:00 to 17:00; 19:00 to 22:00 | Friday and Saturday 10:00 to 13:00; 14:00 to 17:00; 19:00 to 23:00 | Sunday 13:00 to 17:00
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Search the locations of all 11 activities here:
Have you tried any of these activities in Durban before, or do you know about any other activity for less than R200 in the city? Let us know in the comments below!
Prices are subject to change.
Feature image: Umhlanga pier (Bigstock)
