Durban has always been one of the top holiday destinations in South Africa. Its tropical weather, laid-back vibe and swimmer-friendly beaches never fail to draw crowds from all over South Africa during the holidays. The east coast city still has its classic coastal charm, but the city is growing into more than just beach holiday destination. Nowadays, there’s more to Durban than just sunburn and bunny chows. Here’s what a perfect day in Durban looks like for us.
SUNRISE RUN
You can’t have a trip to Durban without experiencing a breath-taking sunrise over the balmy Indian Ocean. No matter what level of fitness you’re at, a sunrise run (or walk) along the promenade is a great way to start your day in Durban.
Take a break by watching the local surfers catching some waves from one of the many piers along the beachfront. There’s no better way to finish off a promenade run (or walk) than having a dip in the ocean.
DURBAN BUS TOUR
For the best scenic tour of Durban, take a ride on the double-decker Ricksha Bus. The busses whisk you around town and stop off at all the attractions. Some of the highlights of the tour are the Juma Mosque, City Hall and the iconic Moses Mabhida stadium.
Tours are from 9:00-12:00 and cost R100 for adults and R50 for children. The bus departs from the Ricksha bus kiosk at the Old Pavilion Site, Bay of Plenty – North Beach.
AFROS LUNCH
All that sightseeing would have definitely worked up your appetite. Just a short walk down from the Ricksha bus kiosk along the promenade will take you to Afro’s Chicken Shop. Look out for the yellow container on South Beach and enjoy the tastiest chicken on the Durban beachfront.
USHAKA SEA WORLD
Africa’s largest aquarium is a must-see when you’re next in Durban. This uShaka Sea World isn’t like any other aquarium you’ve ever been to. At uShaka Sea World you can get in the tanks and dive with the animals! Don’t worry. It’s safe and thousands of people have done it and loved it. Get up close to the aquatic life of the Indian Ocean like never before.
STADIUM SWING
After wandering around Africa’s largest aquarium, you may as well add another record-holding attraction to your day. The Big Rush Big Swing can be found in Moses Mabhida stadium and is the world’s tallest swing! To get to the platform you will jump from, you will have to climb up the iconic stadium arch which is an experience in itself. Once at the top you can enjoy a magnificent view of Durban before you jump 80 meters down into the famous soccer stadium. This is one for the adrenaline junkies and die-hard soccer fans.
FLORIDA ROAD
After a busy day of sightseeing, swimming with sharks and swinging from stadiums you probably want to have a relaxing dinner and digest your day’s experiences. Florida Road offers the most choice in restaurants and is sure to have something that tickles your fancy. Stroll down the trendy road and window shop until you’ve found a restaurant you can’t resist.
And there you have it. A full day adventuring around Durban and seeing some of the iconic sights that make the east coast city a favourite among tourists. The perfect place to use as a base for all your Durban adventures is either City Lodge Hotel Durban or Road Lodge Durban. You can’t go wrong with either so start planning your trip and we hope to see you soon.