Durban is a great city and a must-see when visiting South Africa. Here is a list of some of the top sights.
Golden Mile :
The Golden Mile waterfront is a popular destination for joggers, surfers, swimmers, cyclists, water sports enthusiasts and those looking for a leisurely stroll. The famous “mile” is actually a four-mile stretch that runs from Blue Lagoon South to Addington Beach and Durban Harbour. The name comes from the golden sandy beaches that line the city’s coastline.
Ushaka Marine World :
One of the city’s most popular attractions, a 40-acre theme park. The park has four sections, the largest of which is uShaka Sea World. It is the fifth largest aquarium in the world and is designed around five shipwrecks.
Durban Botanical Gardens:
Established in 1849 by Dr Charles Johnston on the edge of Berea Ridg, this 37-acre property is the oldest public institution in Durban and the oldest surviving botanical garden in Africa. It is an interesting place because of its many living fossil plants.
Boat trip:
While in Durban, why not stop off at Umhlanga and join the KwaZulu Natal Sharks Board staff for an early morning boat trip? You’ll see the shark safety system in action, learn about them and maybe even see dolphins, turtles and rays.
Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World:
Located at the northern end of the Golden Mile, Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World is a complex that houses the casino, cinema, numerous restaurants, a beach bar and its own private beach.
Beaches:
There is no denying that Durban is the place to be for a beach stay to relax and have fun. The city offers a number of different beaches: Bay of Plenty for volleyball, the South Coast for surfing, uShaka Beach famous for its sandcastle artists, who create photorealistic masterpieces for visiting tourists…
Shopping:
For souvenirs, head to the Amphitheatre Flea Market, held every Sunday on the Golden Mile promenade. You’ll find traditional African arts and crafts, from beaded jewellery to wooden sculptures. Of Durban’s many shopping centres, the Gateway Theatre of Shopping is probably the most comprehensive, with over 400 shops.
Moses Mabhida Stadium:
An icon of Durban’s waterfront and the city’s premier venue for sporting and musical events. It is also a thrill-seeker’s paradise and offers several adrenaline-pumping activities, including Big Rush Big Swing. At 80 metres above the ground, on the stadium’s graceful arch, the swing is a jump in the air. You can also climb the arch and enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the coastline and city along the way.
Inanda Heritage Trail:
Part of the Freedom Route, which recognises significant historical areas in KwaZulu Natal province. The trail begins in the town of Inanda, home to the Ohlange Institute, where Nelson Mandela voted in South Africa’s first democratic election in 1994. The Inanda Heritage Trail includes important historical sites that have helped shape South Africa as it is today.
Scuba diving:
Another interesting activity is a visit to the Calypso Dive & Adventure Center, which is also part of the uShaka beachfront complex. Here, a team of PADI professionals offer test dives in the aquarium and ocean as well as fully certified beginner courses.
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