Places to Visit in Durban

uShaka is a marine theme park with a massive aquarium, water park and several interesting exhibits. It is home to the world's fifth largest aquarium - uShaka Sea World, the Wet'n Wild water park with several rides and also the southern hemisphere's highest slide.

An iconic symbol of South African modernity, the stadium is a fantastic sporting venue, hosting some of the most important events in world football. It is an absolute sight to behold. The arch stretching across the length of the stadium is symbolic of the union of South Africa, like in the flag of the country.

The Golden Mile is a hugely popular stretch along the sandy beaches of Durban, and also the seaside promenade that accompanies it. There are a host of attractions along the length of the stretch. The Moses Mabhida, the Blue Lagoon, it's numerous famous beaches, a surfing museum and a miniature model of Durban and many others.

The oldest surviving botanical gardens in Africa, the Durban Botanical Gardens provide a captivating insight into the flora and fauna of the region. There are several exotic plants in the gardens, like a variety of cycads, orchids, bromeliads and so on, along with over a thousand individual trees to add to the aura.

About half an hour from Durban, the Valley of a Thousand Hills is a picturesque escape from the urban establishments and the perfect gateway into the cultural side of South Africa. The green mountains and the gushing Umgeni river, cutting through the valley, is a sight that is surely not to be missed. 

Phezulu Safari Park is located on Bothas Hill in Durban and is perfect for a day out with family. It offers activities such as a reptile park and a tour of the cultural village belonging to the Zulu tribe. There is also a segway tour of the park, sunset drives of the beautiful grounds and bird spotting tours. It also has a 3 km hiking trail or the 6 km guided trail.

This bird zoo is a must for all bird lovers. It has a number of aviaries and interesting exhibits. With a beautifully created landscape, full of waterfalls and rock faces, the Umgeni Bird River Park is a fabulous place for bird watching. A special exhibit on how the birds are hatched and raised is also available. 

A favourite family destination, Mitchell Park is today a zoo of small animals and several gardens, picnic areas and play areas for kids. There is a large play area for kids with many swings, see-saws, slides and sandboxes, along with many gardens that are just perfect for a family picnic. There is a tea garden as well, with lovely flowerbeds and options for having a variety of teas. 

The largest Hare Krishna temple in the southern hemisphere, it is a place of absolute serenity and bliss. This lotus-shaped temple with golden and silver detailing all over the exterior is truly majestic when the first rays of the sun fall on it. Several frescoes depict the life of Lord Krishna, along with gold statues of the gods.

Victoria Street Market is the oldest market in Durban known for its unique blend of African and Indian cultures. It is located on Bertha Mkhize Street in Durban Central. Spanning over 6000 square feet, it has over 200 stalls and stores selling everything from indigenous arts and crafts, Indian products, clothing and accessories, brassware and more. It is also dotted with various eateries.

Durban Natural Science Museum is the most elaborate science museum in the country, known for its life-size T-rex replica. It is located in the Durban City Hall on Smith Street. Spanning over 2000 square feet, the museum displays several exhibits, including the skeleton of the extinct Dodo bird. A guided tour is available.

The Kwazulu Natal Society of Arts is a contemporary art gallery located on Bulwer Road in Glenwood. It hosts artists of national and international acclaim such as Albert Adams, Sue Akerman, Mert Akbal, Rohini Amratlal and more. It is a non-profit organization founded in 1902 as Kwazulu Natal’s first contemporary art gallery.

Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve is a ​​preserved natural estuarine ecosystem that houses Durban's largest population of mangrove trees. It is located at the mouth of the Umgeni River in Durban North. It preserves the red, white and black mangrove trees. The reserve is also home to several animal species like the mudskippers, the dwarf chameleons, and fiddler crabs. In addition, there is a bird hide perfect for bird watching.

Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve is one of Durban's most delicate coastal forest areas, located on Coedmore Avenue next to Yellowwood Park. It is home to Yellowwood trees, nature walk trails and a 10 km mountain bike trail. The Nature Reserve is also famous for night drives and bird watching.

Mini Town is a mini-city housing a miniature replica of Durban scaled down to 1:24. It is located in Snell Parade on North Beach. It is an excellent way to tour the entire city in minutes and get a unique perspective on its skyline and neighbourhoods. It is an enjoyable location to visit, especially for children.

Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium is a famous cricket stadium in the KwaZulu-Natal province of Durban. Close to the Indian ocean, the stadium is renowned for being the ground on which the first home test for the South African cricket team was played in 1939 after readmission into international cricket.