Travel to Durban

Travel to Durban

Situated on the eastern coast of South Africa, the balmy city of Durban is a port city renowned for its perpetually benignweather, sun-kissed beaches and warm oceans. It is also a prosperous business centre, as evidenced by the luxury hotels and swanky apartments that line the beachfront promenade. Durban is a mix of European, African and Indian influences, each adding to the citys overall eclectic character.

Transportation to Durban

Durban International Airport issituated 15kms south of the city centre and is well-connected by various means of transportation. Flights from all over South Africa and abroad arrive at the airport. By rail, the Trans-Natal comes from Johannesburg, and Greyhound, Intercape and Translux ply their bus services countrywide. The 16-hour N2 journey by car from Cape Town runs parallel to the coast as far as Zululand, while the N3 to Johannesburg connects with the N2 at Durban, a car trip that takes about 6 hours.

What to see

Durbans vast sandy beaches and warm Indian Ocean waters are conducive for relaxation and fun. The beaches are flanked by numerous bars and eateries that create a thriving social scene. The Marine Parade beaches are well-developed with full facilities and an amusement park, but for those who prefer solitude, the more secluded beaches that dot the coastline will do the trick.

One of Durbans major attractions is the City Hall, a modern Renaissance-styled building that was erected almost 100 years ago. On the second floor is the Durban Art Gallery, home to a stirring collection of South African and international works of art. Durbans Natural Science Museum is an exhibition of the evolution of animal life, with several other museums around the city tracing Durbans historical development. The easily accessible harbour and dock area makes for an interesting visit.

Daytrips

Umhlanga Rocks is an alluring beach resort that lies north of Durban, and towards the south, charming coastal holiday towns such as Amamzimtoti can be found. Durbans landscape gets hillier; more sub-tropical; and increasingly panoramic, with views across lush green sugar cane fields, as you go farther inland. Visit the picturesque rural settlements in the Valley of a Thousand Hills for a first-hand experience of Zulu culture and traditions.

Activities and leisure

Durban is a haven for water sports such as sailing, scuba diving, snorkelling and surfing. For the less vigorous, bird-watching at the Umgeni River Bird Park or a stroll in the Botanical Gardens are some of the simpler recreational pleasures to be experienced. Grey Street, the centre of Durbans Indian community, is the best place to buy fabrics and spices, and to sample some of thebest local cuisine the city has to offer.

Safety issues

Safety is a major concern in Durban, as it is in the other big cities in South Africa. Durban has a high rate of robberies, break-ins, muggings and hijackings, some of which can be quite violent, so walking alone in certain parts of the city is not advised. Be vigilant at all times, and keep a close eye on personal belongings. Taking out travel insurance before visiting Durban is highly recommended.