Durban holidays

How to reach Durban

Flight time: Flights to Durban from the UK typically take 14 to 18 hours, including a stopover at a hub in Europe or the Middle East, or in Johannesburg.

Transfer time: The journey from King Shaka International Airport to Durban city centre by taxi takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Alternatively, the airport shuttle service runs between the airport and major hotels in Durban, taking slightly longer than taxis.

Price:

• A taxi from the airport to the city centre will cost around R200–R400 (£8.50–£17), depending on your exact destination and the traffic.

• The shuttle is priced at R120–R300 (£5–£13) per person.

Best time to visit Durban

Durban has a subtropical climate, making it a good year-round holiday destination. The best time to visit depends on your preference for weather and the activities you'd like to do. Here's a seasonal breakdown.

October to April is high season, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 30°C; December and January are the hottest months, when South Africa has its annual holidays. The summer brings plenty of sunshine but is also the wettest time of year with tropical showers, thunderstorms and high humidity. Despite this, it's a popular time for the beach, thanks to Durban’s warm weather, decent ocean temperatures and lively atmosphere. And if you don’t mind the heat, this is also when you'll find some of its most exciting cultural festivals.

May to September offers cooler, more comfortable weather, with temperatures between 15°C and 24°C. This is Durban’s dry season, so you can expect less rain and plenty of clear, sunny days. It’s perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and visiting the local nature reserves. It’s also still warm enough for beach outings.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: South Africa has 11 official languages, with English being one; it's widely spoken throughout Durban, especially in tourist areas, though you’ll also hear Zulu and Afrikaans.

• Local habits and customs: South Africans are generally friendly and welcoming, but respect for local customs is appreciated. Tipping around 10 percent in restaurants is standard, and it’s polite to leave a small tip for petrol station attendants and car guards.

• Currency: The South African Rand (R) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available, and credit or debit cards are accepted almost everywhere. It’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or tips.

• Getting around: Durban’s public transport options include the convenient and reasonably priced buses and taxis. Renting a car is a good way of getting around the city, especially if you want to explore places along the coast out of town and areas further inland.

• Electricity and plug types: South Africa's electricity is 220/230V and uses Type M plugs, so you’ll need an adaptor if you’re coming from the UK.

• Time zone: South Africa is 2 hours ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in Durban

One of South Africa’s most charismatic cities, Durban has a rich cultural history and a wide variety of attractions. Whether you want to soak up the sun on the stunning beaches along the Golden Mile, explore the city’s historic landmarks or enjoy some watersports, Durban holidays have it all.

The best districts

• The centre: Right in the middle of colonial Durban, several parks and leafy squares are surrounded by the city's main streets and some fine old buildings. The old station is now renovated and houses shops and offices, while the monumental city hall is a museum and gallery. The Kwa Muhle Museum is a sobering but important place to visit to understand Apartheid and modern South Africa.

• The Indian District: Home to the biggest Indian population of any city outside India, this fast-paced area is an exciting mix of shops and restaurants, with a skyline punctuated by temples and mosques.

• Durban beachfront: Stretching for several kilometres along the coast from uShaka to the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Mile promenade is a great place to walk, cycle, surf or just enjoy views of the ocean and the city skyline.

• Umhlanga Rocks: Just a short drive north of the city, this thriving beachfront suburb is known for its luxury hotels, beautiful beach and upmarket shopping centres like Gateway Theatre of Shopping. The beachfront is ideal for a peaceful walk, and the nearby restaurants offer excellent dining options.

Parks and gardens

• Durban Botanic Gardens: This is the oldest botanic garden in Africa, a tranquil space filled with tropical plants, cycads and orchids. The gardens are perfect for a leisurely walk, and they also host regular events and concerts. There’s even a tea garden for a relaxing refreshment break.

Activities for families in Durban

Besides the beach activities, Durban offers plenty to keep the kids entertained. From aquatic attractions to museums, here are some of the best places to visit.

• uShaka Marine World: A top draw for families, this park features a huge aquarium and a penguin rookery, and there's even a phantom cargo ship to explore. The underwater viewing tunnels showcasing a wide variety of marine life from both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans are a big hit, while the Wet ’n Wild water park is perfect for cooling off on hot days.

• The Old Courthouse Museum: Built in 1866, this is Durban’s oldest public building and now functions as a museum for the city’s colonial past. With exhibitions ranging from Victorian furniture to military history, it’s a fascinating glimpse into the city’s heritage.

Free things to do in Durban

Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s cultural side or enjoy some outdoor fun, here are some great free things to do.

• Beaches: Durban’s beaches are free to access, and with warm water, lifeguards on duty and miles of coastline to explore, there’s always a spot to enjoy the sun and surf. Try Addington Beach for a quieter vibe or head to the bustling North Beach for people-watching and fun activities.

• Victoria Street Market: This lively indoor market is a vibrant mix of Indian and African cultures. You can browse the spices, handcrafted jewellery, textiles and fresh produce while soaking up the market’s unique atmosphere.

• Free events: Durban’s beachfront is often host to free events, including live music performances and food markets, particularly during the summer months. Keep an eye out for festivals that showcase local music and art.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Surfing: Durban’s warm waters make it one of the best places to surf in South Africa. There are several surf schools along the Golden Mile where you can take lessons, or simply rent a board and hit the waves.

• Paragliding: For an adrenaline rush, try paragliding off the cliffs near the Umhlanga area. You’ll be treated to incredible views of the coastline as you soar through the sky.

Local dishes in Durban

Durban’s diverse culinary offerings reflect its mix of African, Indian and European influences. From hearty curries to fresh seafood, Durban is a foodie’s paradise. Here’s a taste of what to expect.

Some typical dishes

• Bunny Chow: Durban’s most iconic dish is a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry. Originally brought to South Africa by Indian immigrants, it’s a must-try food that’s filling and delicious.

• Braai: More than just a barbecue, a South African braai is a social event that's very much part of the national identity. Traditionally seen on the grill are huge steaks, lamb and sausages, with ostrich and venison also becoming popular. Side dishes include vegetables cooked in the embers or chakalaka.

• Pap and Chakalaka: A staple in South African households, pap is a maize porridge often served with chakalaka, a spicy vegetable relish. This dish is a common accompaniment at braais.

Meat and fish dishes

• Boerewors: A spiced “farmer’s sausage” grilled on the braai, Boerewors is a favourite at South African barbecues. It’s usually served with pap and gravy or a simple tomato relish, and has a delicious, smoky flavour.

• Indian food: Durban is famous for its curries, especially lamb or chicken, which are known for their rich, spicy flavour. Other options include crab and prawn curries, biryanis and rotis.

• Grilled Snoek: This large, local fish is found along South Africa’s coast. When served with a sweet apricot glaze, it’s a classic traditional dish.

Sweets and desserts

• Koeksisters: These plaited doughnuts are deep-fried then soaked in sticky syrup, offering a sweet and indulgent end to any meal.

• Soji: With its origins in India, this popular dessert is made from semolina flavoured with cardamom and cinnamon. It’s often served at celebrations.

Local drinks

• Wine: South Africa is one of the world's great winemakers. While there are some small vineyards to the northwest of Durban, a one-to-two-hour drive inland past Pietermaritzburg, it’s the Winelands near Cape Town that produce the country’s finest wines; these include Chenin and Sauvignon Blancs, several reds using the unique Pinotage grapes, and port – all well worth sampling.

• Rooibos tea: This caffeine-free herbal tea is native to South Africa and has a naturally sweet, earthy flavour. Rooibos is a staple in most South African households and is often enjoyed with honey or milk.