Durban boasts incredible summer weather, is a melting pot of cultures and has an array of attractions.
From heritage sites, to tasty foods, beach getaways and adrenalin-pumping activities, the list is endless.
“It is going to be a bumper festive season in Durban, as over 1,4 million visitors are expected to land on our shores to enjoy a ‘sunsational’ and memorable summer holiday,” says Philip Sithole, head, Durban Tourism.
We would like to encourage all our visitors to venture to new hidden gems and tourism routes this holiday. Spend time with the locals at popular township restaurants and get absorbed into the rich history and culture of our vibrant city at the various tourism nodes.
We take a closer look at some of the popular tourist places and discover what the areas offer visitors.
Durban Point Beachfront
A visit to Durban is not complete without going to the beach. More specifically spending a day at Durban Point Beachfront, where you will find a myriad activities, restaurants and apartments to rent while you are on holiday. Home to the popular uShaka Marine World, this attraction is ideal for families, and will keep the kids entertained all day.
Valley of a Thousand Hills
An old favourite for both locals and tourists, the Valley of a Thousand Hills is nestled in Botha’s Hill. A 30-minute drive from Durban Central, the area has breath-taking views of lush green rolling hills and unspoilt natural surroundings. It is renowned for its warm country hospitality, eateries with delicious food, trail walking paths and wildlife. Close to this area, you can experience the rich Zulu heritage at PheZulu Game Park, or taste some craft beer from the Porcupine Quill Brewing Company.
Woza eNanda Heritage Route
Taking tourists on an adventure through some important, yet little known, historical sites, Woza eNanda Heritage Route winds through the Inanda Valley. “The Woza eNanda Heritage Route has a strong appeal to our young adventure tourists. It is a place where you can canoe, mountain bike, hire a quad bike or have coffee at one of the most breathtaking spots in Durban, Wushwini, that overlooks the Inanda Dam,” says Sithole.
These three areas are just a fraction of what Durban has to offer.
Summer attractions:
- Fact Durban Rocks
- Durban Jazz Festival
- Durban Underground
- Vodacom Beach Festival
- Indlamu Cultural and Traditional Festival
- Woze Durban Picnic
- Umgababa New Year’s Picnic
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
Take a trip through Durban Central here: