DURBAN

 

Durban, South Africa

Durban is a little beachfront city in South Africa. It is commonly nicknamed as Durbs. It is the third most populous city in South Africa after Johannesburg and Cape Town. Durban was one of the host cities of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The rich mix of Zulu, Indian, and colonial cultures can be seen in the city’s eclectic architecture and tasted in the local cuisine. Durban is packed with opportunities for adventure, from high-adrenalin water sports to the world’s tallest swing. Just a short way outside the city dramatic landscapes and cultural experiences await while a few hours’ drives will put you in the path of the world’s most majestic animals.

The currency used in the city is the South African Rand. Most people in Durban speak European English and Zulu with Afrikaans hardly being used because Natal, now known as Kwa-Zulu Natal, the province Durban is situated in was formerly a British Colony and Afrikaans never stuck. Zulu is the spoken language in Durban.

Durban has a humid subtropical climate with hot and humid summers and pleasantly warm and dry winters, which are snow and frost-free. With such great weather, many of the things to do in Durban involve being outside and taking advantage of the glorious weather. We would suggest a Durban city tour to orient yourself and then heading out either for thrills like the Moses Mabhida Stadium Swing or cage diving with sharks in South Africa or more sedate activities like visiting the Kwa Muhle Museum or the Umhlanga Pier. Major-city attractions abound, making this a good destination for families and couples.

Here are some of the things to do :

See the Sunrise on The Golden Mile. The spectacular stretch of beach known as The Golden Mile is the ideal spot to catch the sunrise. If you’re not an early riser, the beach provides lots of opportunities to chill out with the locals, soak up some sun, or sit back and sip a cocktail. For a more active day, rent a bike and cruise along the waterfront all the way from the Blue Lagoon to Ushaka.

Golden Mile Durban

World’s Tallest Swing. Embark on an adventure to the top Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium — which hosted the semi-finals of the 2010 World Cup — and take in the spectacular 360-degree views of the city. Once at the top, venture to the 70-metre high Big Rush Big Swing, named the World’s Tallest Swing by the Guinness Book of World Records.

Moses Mabhida Stadium

Hare Krishna Temple of Understanding. This is an architectural wonder, with three tall gold and white domes reaching towards the sky above an octagonal roof. Inside, the ornate decorations have a little something for everyone, with its east-meet-west futuristic style . Attend an Arati service, spend a tranquil afternoon working on your inner peace, or just hit up the Govinda’s restaurant for a tasty vegetarian meal.

Fly on the Waves. Durban might be better known for its spectacular surfing but you’ll find lots of perfect spots for kiteboarding, too. With year-round hot weather and warm water temperatures, there’s no need for wetsuits. Just be aware that sharks patrol Durban’s warm waters! Luckily, all of Durban’s beaches are protected by shark nets.

Durban’s impressive Victoria Street Market. Durban is home to the largest Indian population outside of India so don’t be surprised to find colourful barrels of Indian spices and bundles of fragrant incense sold by men in kurtas and women in Saris. The market provides plenty of traditional African products to pique your interest too. While the lower floor of the market is dedicated to fruits, veggies, fish and meat, the upper floor is a great place to stock up on souvenirs and locally made jewellery and clothing.

Rise Above it all at The Sani Pass. It is a World Heritage Site rising 2874 metres above sea level, is just a short drive from Durban. The 33 km gravel road climbs the mountain in a series of sharp switchbacks, hugging to the cliff walls of the Drankensburg escarpment. Marvel at the views and get a chance to visit the local Sotho people, a sheep and goat-herding tribe who live a traditional life high in the mountains.

Experience Zulu culture in the Valley of 1000 Hills. Visitors can spend time gazing out at the dramatic landscape and trying to count each of the thousand hills. A visit to the Phezulu Safari Park will give you insight into the culture of the local Zulu people, teach you how Zulu spears and shields are made, and give you a chance to enjoy a traditional Zulu dance show. Visit Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, where the Big 5 — African elephants, African lions, Black rhinoceroses, African leopards, and the Cape buffalo — roam freely. The park is also home to the biggest population of Southern White Rhino in the world. If you’re in love with wildlife , it’s a Durban must see! Whether you want to stay in hostels or luxury hotels, the choice can be overwhelming.

Phezulu Cultural Village

Visit our website for different ranges and rates, according to your preference. Whether you want a vibrant city experience, a laid-back beach holiday, an adrenaline-fueled adventure, or a bit of each, Durban has you covered. Definitely add it to your South Africa vacation when you’re coming to this beautiful country. #alkhaleejtours

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