Durban Top Attractions

• By: Editor
• On: 10/Oct/2008
• In: South Africa Travel Tips

Beaches include Country Club Beach, Tekwini Beach and Laguna Beach to the north and Brighton Beach, Cave Rock Beach and Garvies Beach to the south. Most beaches have shark nets and a lifeguard on duty during the day. However, there's life beyond the beach at Durban, and if you can tear yourself away for the golden sands and crashing waves, there's plenty to keep you occupied. Here are a few ideas:

Trails and hiking…

Undoubtedly a great way to see the amazing Durban countryside! Durban has approximately 26 nature reserves. You'll see zebras, impalas, bushbuck, vervet monkeys and birds as well as various strains of plants, flowers and grasses. 

Some trails are guided and suitable for all ages, while others are unguided and may only be suitable for the experienced walker.

Trails can take as much time as you like, for instance you may only want to spend an hour out walking, it's up to you!  As in any country, check the weather, decide on the distance and check the degree of difficulty of the trail and wear suitable clothing.

Umgeni River Bird Park…

Umgeni River Bird Park is just 10 minutes outside Durban. The park was constructed in a disused quarry, on the Umgeni River Banks. Craggy rock faces and fabulous waterfalls make a great setting for this attraction.

With conservation to the forefront, this park proudly boasts successfully breeding 17 of the 23 endangered species kept here. Pushing this conservation message home is a free-flight show. You'll be completely in awe, as you watch Macaws, Cape Vultures and Wattled Crane. Don’t miss it!

Other birds on show include Palm Cockatoos, Plalawan Peacock Pheasants and Caribbean Flamingos

Find out more about Umgeni River Bird Park.

uShaka Marine World…

A day can be easily spent at uShaka Marine World. There are 5 zones to cover so there’s no time to waste.

First of all there's the ship-wreck themed aquarium. In this zone you also have a dolphin stadium, a seal pool and a penguin rookery.

Next up…"wet and wild", a range of water slides and pools. There's something for everyone here, from the thrill seeker to those of you who prefer things a bit calmer, and of course not forgetting kiddie slides for the little ones.

Now after all that activity, maybe a stroll through Village Walk is in order. Feel the "buzz" from nearby "Marine World", as you stop for refreshments at one of the many eateries. The keen shoppers among you will also be very happy, as there are a variety of shops to browse through for that special souvenir. Or perhaps you'd like to dine with a difference at the cargo steamer from 1920’s? This is located in "Marine World".  There are some excellent photo opportunities here as well.

With all your energy restored, its back to "Marine World" uShaka beach, where surf lessons and beach kayak tours are available.

Find out more about uShaka Marine World.

The best way to explore the area is by car. Check out our car hire Durban page.