Welcome to Durban

Founded by British settlers and Originally called Port Natal, the sunny seaside city of Durban is built around one of, if not the busiest port(s) in Africa. The city, popular for its all-year round sunshine and coastline of sun kissed beaches, sits in the KwaZulu-Natal province and eThekwini municipality.

The sophisticated cosmopolitan city of over 3,442,361 people is a major centre of tourism because of the city's warm sub-tropical climate and extensive beaches. Its land area of 2,297 square km is comparatively larger than other cities in South Africa.

Durban has the largest Indian population outside of India and the ‎largest Asian community on the African continent. Along with Vigan, Doha, La Paz, Havana, Beirut , and Kuala Lumpur; the city was recognised officially as one of the New7Wonders cities.

Information & Facts

Activities

The Golden Mile: Segway and bike hires provide the best tour and experience of the Durban Beachfront.

Moses Mabhida Stadium: Named after former General Secretary of the South African Communist Party, Moses Mabhida. It is a multi-use stadium and was one of the host stadiums for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

uShaka Marine World, one of the largest aquariums in the world and family-friendly theme park. It comprises of the uShaka Sea World, uShaka Wet 'n Wild, uShaka Beach, and uShaka Village Walk.

The Markets of Warwick—possibly the largest informal street market in South Africa

The International Convention Centre (ICC)—the leading conferences centre in Africa for the last 5 years, and rated 4th in the world in 2005.

Durban Ice Arena - Durban's iconic ice skating rink, revamped in 2015.

Gateway Theatre of Shopping: Durban’s unique shopping and entertainment complex with more than 400 outlets offering anything and everything a shopper could want.

Climate

The Climate in Durban is the ‎humid subtropical; it is characterised ‎with hot and humid summers; and warm and dry winters, which are snow and frost-free.

The rainy season happens in Summer (November - mid-April). This period is hot and humid during the day but are relieved by afternoon or evening thunderstorms. There are also occasional storms and cyclones. Winters (June - August), are generally warm and sunny.

Eating Out

From traditional Zulu meals to delectable Indian curry and other cuisine choices; there are various spot in Durban to fill the yearning for a delicacy. The restaurants, eateries and hospitality establishments reflect the diversity nature of the cosmopolitan city.

The best takeout joints and fine dining establishments can be found in Florida Road, Lilian Ngoye Road (formerly Windermere), Umhlanga north of Durban and Hillcrest.

Getting Around

There are various alternatives for travel within Durban. Unlike other cities, the city is walkable and easy to navigate. There are public transport options, both private and public buses, offering bus services within and outer areas. It is also advisable to hire a car from the various standard car rental services; and there are quite a number of mini buses and metered taxi cabs available.

Language

English and Zulu are the most common languages spoken in Durban. A large percentage also speak Afrikaans.

Money

The Official currency for South Africa is the Rand (ZAR).

Negatives

In terms of crime rate, Durban is more dangerous than Johannesburg but much safer than Cape Town.

This is a radical shift from previous decades when Johannesburg was the most dangerous of these cities and Cape Town the safest. However, Criminals usually avoid targeting tourists because they know that the police response will be greater.

Shopping

One of the reason tourists’ visits Durban is the opportunity to ‘shop till they drop’ and enjoy the unique entertainment facilities. The city is home to the Gateway Theatre of Shopping - the largest mall in Africa (in terms of size). Described as the shoppers’ paradise, the over 400 outlets offer various world class shopping experience, unending entertainment and delicious meals, in one environment.

Other malls in the city like the Pavilion Shopping Centre, La Lucia Mall, Rinaldo Shopping Centre, Bridge City Shopping Centre, Musgrave Shopping Centre, Watercrest Shopping Center, City View Shopping Centre, and Galleria, all provide a premier shopping and entertainment experience.

The Victoria street market on the corner of Queen and Victoria Streets in Durban Central is one of the oldest markets in the city. The Afro-Indian market offers various wares ranging from jewellery, woven baskets, silk saris, scarves, to even cheap Chinese products. There are all manners of delightful food and spices including a fish market.

Situated in the 1000 Hills Tourism route, the Heritage market caters for the whole family, locals and tourists. It provides a unique shopping experience in the Hillcrest area, ranging from jewellery, health, beauty, clothing, sporting and convenience stores to specialist stores not found in your average mall.

Time

SAST (South Africa Standard Time) - UTC+2 hours

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aha The Gateway Hotel

This environmentally-friendly hotel is attached to the Gateway Theatre of Shopping. The establishment is approximately 10 km from Mount Edgecombe and about 18 km from King Shaka International Airport. Guests are welcome to relax in the comfortable, well-appointed..

aha Waterfront Hotel & Spa

This hotel is situated in Durban at the corner of Mahatma Ghandi and Browns Road, on the Durban waterfront. The closest beach is the Durban beachfront which is just 5 minutes' walk. It is 5 minutes on foot from the nearest bars and 500 m from dining venues...

BEACH HOTEL

Location The hotel is situated on the Golden Mile beachfront with panoramic views of the ocean and beachfront promenade. The hotel is also located in close proximity to the Durban International Convention Centre, Suncoast Casino and uShaka Marine World...

Blue Waters Hotel

Facilities Services and facilities at the hotel include internet access and wireless internet access. Guests arriving in their own vehicles can park in the car park. Rooms Special family rooms are available for families with children. All rooms feature..

Bushland Game Lodge

Guests will find the ultimate African experience within 121 hectares of bush and game, and 121,406 hectares of National Parks. The hotel is situated on 61 hectares at Lot H99 Bushlands Road. Durban International Airport is located approximately 290 km..

CITY LODGE DURBAN

Facilities The hotel is the perfect choice for business travellers and holiday makers alike, offering a wide range of services and facilities for a comfortable stay. The hotel offers a babysitting service. A garden is among the features contributing to..

CITY LODGE UMHLANGA RIDGE

Facilities The establishment features various services and facilities for a comfortable and relaxing stay, including internet access, wireless internet access and a childcare service. Shopping facilities are available. Rooms All accommodation units feature..

Docklands Hotel

Facilities A lobby and a reception are available to guests. Lift access is provided to the upper floors. Amenities include a safe. Internet access and wireless internet access are available in the public areas. Gastronomic options include a restaurant..

Dumazulu Lodge

The bungalow complex is situated in the heart of Zululand, near Hluhluwe, in a tranquil environment, about 290 km from Durban International Airport.FacilitiesThe establishment comprises a total of 21 accommodation units. Guests of the establishment are..

Garden Court Marine Parade

Location This hotel, in a prime position on Durban's Golden Mile overlooking the Indian Ocean, is perfectly situated for both business and leisure, being just 20 km from Durban International Airport, 4 km from the railway and ship embarkation terminals,..

GARDEN COURT MARINE PARADE - 55DES502

Garden Court South Beach

Location The hotel is located within walking distance of several of Durban's premier attractions, which include the Suncoast Casino and Entertainment Centre and uShaka Marine World, as well as the harbour, beachfront restaurants, shops and cinemas. With..

GARDEN COURT SOUTH BEACH - 55DES502

The hotel is located within walking distance of several of Durban's premier attractions, which include the Suncoast Casino and Entertainment Centre and uShaka Marine World, as well as the harbour, beachfront restaurants, shops and cinemas. With panoramic..

Garden Court Umhlanga

Facilities The establishment comprises a total of 204 accommodation units. Services and facilities at the hotel include wireless internet access, a restaurant, a dining area, a bar, room service and a conference room. Guests arriving by car can park their..

GARDEN COURT UMHLANGA - 55DES502

Garden Court Umhlanga is situated in Umhlanga, within 18 km away from the centre of Durban and close proximity to the Gateway Shopping Centre. Accommodations feature air conditioning, television, tea and coffee making facilities, electronic safe, wireless..

Gooderson Beach Hotel

The hotel is situated on the Golden Mile beachfront with panoramic views of the ocean and beachfront promenade. The hotel is also located in close proximity to the Durban International Convention Centre, Suncoast Casino and uShaka Marine World. There..

Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens Golf & Spa Resort

Location Located on a scenic 325-hectare estate, on a World Heritage Site in the heart of the Southern Drakensberg, this resort offers guests a tranquil setting to relax and unwind.Location Located on a scenic 325-hectare estate, on a World Heritage Site..

Gooderson Tropicana Hotel

The hotel is located in close proximity to the International Convention Centre, Suncoast Casino and uShaka Marine World. Links to public transport and Wedge Beach are within close walking distance. Ideally situated on Durban's Golden Mile overlooking..

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS DURBAN - UMHLANGA

The HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS DURBAN - UMHLANGA is a Tourist hotel. Located in Durban area. Shopping is within walking distance and the nightlife/restaurants are located in the hotel.

Island Hotel

Property Location With a stay at Island Hotel in Durban (Durban Central Business District), you'll be minutes from Old House Museum and close to Sahara Stadium Kingsmead. This hotel is within close proximity of Juma Musjid Mosque and Farewell..

Jay and Bee Guest House

Property Location When you stay at Jay and Bee Guest House in Durban, you'll be close to The Pavilion Westville. This guesthouse is within the vicinity of University of KwaZulu-Natal and Killie Campbell Africana Library.Rooms Make yourself at..

Natal Spa Hot Springs and Leisure Resort

LocationSet on 800 hectares of KwaZulu-Natal Bushveld, the youth hostel resort has access to about four kilometres of the Bivane River flowing through the property.FacilitiesThe hotel features 53 accommodation units. Guests of the hotel are welcomed in..

Oceanic

FacilitiesThe establishment offers a wide range of facilities to guests, allowing them to enjoy a comfortable stay. The facilities include a childcare service.RoomsAll accommodation units feature a safe, a fridge, a telephone and a TV.Sports/EntertainmentSport..

P.H. Shakaland

Renovated in 2006, the hotel comprises a total of 55 stylishly decorated huts. Facilities in this air-conditioned hotel include a 24-hour reception and a currency exchange counter. A bar, a kiosk, a TV room, a conference room, an Internet connection and..

Pavilion Hotel & Conference Centre

Situated by the ocean, this hotel is within a 15-minute walk of North Beach and Sahara Stadium Kingsmead. UShaka Marine World is 1.6 mi (2.6 km) away.

Premier Hotel Pinetown

Facilities The hotel features 59 accommodation units. The facilities include a conference room. Guests can use the parking spaces if required. Rooms A kitchenette equipped with a microwave and tea and coffee making equipment is provided as standard. A..

Protea Hluhluwe and Safaris

FacilitiesServices and facilities at the hotel include wireless internet access, a restaurant and a bar. Guests can buy holiday mementos from the souvenir shop. Shopping facilities are available. Guests travelling in their own vehicles can make use of..

PROTEA HOTEL KARRIDENE BEACH

Facilities A range of services and amenities are available to guests of the hotel. The facilities include a childcare service. Rooms The hotel offers non-smoking rooms. All rooms feature air conditioning and a bathroom. A desk is also available. Convenient..

Protea Hotel Umhlanga

Location This hotel is situated at the heart of Umhlanga Rocks, only a few minutes walk from the resort's most popular beach. The largest shopping centre in the area, as well as the many shops, restaurants, and bars nearby, are perfect for some leisurely..

Sibaya Lodge & Entertainment Kingdom

There are a total of 118 rooms on the premises. The property is made up of 66 double rooms and 2 disability-friendly rooms. This attractive hotel is perfect for a weekend getaway or longer holiday. The Hotel provides air-conditioning in public areas...

Southern Sun North Beach

LocationThis city hotel is located on Durban's scenic Golden Mile; opposite the world-renowned surfers' paradise; North Beach. Guests will find bars and links to the public transport network in the immediate vicinity; while restaurants are just 200 m..

Splendid Inn Pinetown

Splendid Inn Pinetown offer guests an array of accommodation choices to suit every need and budget. Central to the Kloof and Westville areas, Pinetown and enjoys easy access to all major routes, including the ever popular Midlands Meander. Guests can..

Stonehaven Lodge and Conference Center

Whether attending a wedding or conference in the area, or just passing through, the lodge offers a place to repose and refresh for the night. Simple, comfortable, homely, the lodge allows guests to truly relax. The establishment offers a lobby, hotel..

SunSquare Suncoast

Facilities Guests can reach the upper floors quickly and comfortably using the lift. The apartment hotel features various services and facilities for a comfortable and relaxing stay, including wireless internet access and a conference room. A garden is..

The Albany Hotel

Facilities The establishment features various services and facilities for a comfortable and relaxing stay, including internet access, wireless internet access, a childcare service and a transfer service. Rooms Special family rooms are available for families..

The Benjamin

A warm welcome awaits you at The Benjamin, located 5-minute drive from Durban Beaches and in the heart of the vibrant entertainment strip in Florida Road. The hotel features gardens with an outdoor pool and a shaded terrace. Free parking is available..

The Palace Resort and Spa

FacilitiesThe establishment offers numerous services and facilities. The facilities include a childcare service.RoomsThe accommodation units offer separate bedrooms. A safe is also available. Small meals can be prepared in the kitchenette. A telephone,..

The Pavilion Hotel

The Pavilion Hotel is located in Durban just 200m away from the beach. At the edge of the ciry centre, this chic hotel and conference centra is 300m from the golden sands of the North Beach, it's 2.5km from the Suncoast Casino Complex and 3.5km from the..

The Westville

A comfortable and friendly hotel located in the suburbs between Durban and Pietermaritzburg, the Westville Hotel is the perfect choice for families and couples who want to relax and get away from it all while still being close to the action. Offering..

Three Cities Urban Park Hotel and Spa

Urban Park Hotel and Spa is situated in Umhlanga Ridge, Umhlanga. Guests can enjoy a day of pampering at the Aqua Spa, or have a good work out at the fully equipped gym. Each chic self-catering apartment is air-conditioned. It has a kitchen with a stove..

TROPICANA HOTEL

The hotel is located in close proximity to the International Convention Centre, Suncoast Casino and uShaka Marine World. Links to public transport and Wedge Beach are within close walking distance. Facilities The establishment comprises a total of 168..

64 on Gordon Hotel

The hotel surprises with its designer facilities and ambiance. The accommodation is aimed at the style-seeker staying for leisure or business. It features hand-made accessories, carefully selected customised fittings which are simple and direct and a..

aha The Riverside Hotel

Located above the Umgeni River in Durban North, this hotel boasts unparalleled views across magnificent greenery. There is easy access to Durban's central business district and it is close to the Northern Freeway, leading to the Umhlanga Rocks and the..

aha The Square Boutique Hotel & Spa

This stylish accommodation is situated in a prime spot among the many retail and commercial properties in Umhlanga Ridge, a stone's throw away from Gateway Theatre of Shopping, where guests can find the nearest bars and restaurants, as well as shopping..

aha Urban Park Hotel & Spa

This aparthotel enjoys a seaside setting in Umhlanga. The complex is located within easy access of the Gateway Shopping Centre, where guests can indulge in a spot of retail therapy. Guests will find themselves just a short distance away from a number..

Alpine Health Resort

This club resort is located in the foothills of the Northern Drakenberg, on the west coast of South Africa. The nearest town is Bergville and lies approximately 40 km from the property. Royal Natal Park is approximately 30 km from the hotel. It is 35..

BALMORAL

Located on Durban's 'Golden Mile' with the beach on its doorstep, the hotel is a short walk away from the shopping and business district, the International Convention Centre and the uShaka Marine World which features the largest dolphinarium..

Belaire Suites

Facilities Services and facilities at the hotel include internet access, wireless internet access and a childcare service. Rooms All rooms feature air conditioning and a bathroom. Each accommodation unit features separate bedrooms or a double bed. A safe..

Bizafrika Guest Lodge & Conference Center

FacilitiesServices and facilities at the hotel include internet access, wireless internet access and a childcare service.RoomsThe accommodation units each feature a sofa-bed. A safe is also available. Additional features, including internet access, a..

Canelands Beach Club

FacilitiesServices and facilities at the hotel include wireless internet access, a restaurant and a bar.RoomsAll rooms feature air conditioning and a bathroom. Many of the rooms also offer a sea view, adding to the ambience. Among the amenities are a..

Cathedral Peak Hotel

Enjoying an enviable location in the heart of the magnificent Drakensberg Mountain Range, this luxurious modern resort hotel offers a wide range of amenities. Ladysmith Airport is 90 km away and it's just 67 km to the impressive Giants Castle Game Reserve...

Coastlands Musgrave Hotel

Property Location With a stay at Coastlands Musgrave Hotel, you'll be centrally located in Durban, convenient to Killie Campbell Africana Library and Sahara Stadium Kingsmead. This 4-star hotel is within close proximity of Durban Botanical Gardens..

DRAKENSBERG SUN

Location This upmarket family resort is centrally situated in the Drakensberg range.

Goble Palms Guest Lodge & Urban Retreat

Facilities The numerous facilities, amenities and services available mean that guests of the establishment can enjoy a comfortable stay. Services and facilities at the hotel include internet access and wireless internet access. Rooms All accommodation..

Gooderson Monks Cowl Golf Resort

Gooderson Monks Cowl Golf Resort is a spectacular Drakensberg resort situated in the Central Drakensberg approximately four hours from Johannesburg and two and a half hours from Durban in the magnificent Champagne Valley. Welcome to the highest degree..

Hilton Durban hotel

LocationGuests can explore KwaZulu-Natal's wild coastline from the hotel; located right next to the International Convention Centre; or laze on the beaches 400 m away. UShaka Marine World is located a 5-minute drive from the hotel.

Jozini Tiger Lodge and Spa

FacilitiesA lobby and a reception are available to guests. Amenities include a safe. Internet access and wireless internet access are available in the public areas. Gastronomic options include a restaurant and a bar. The grounds of the establishment feature..

Premier Resort Sani Pass

Location makes it the ideal destination for incentive conferencing, weddings and celebratory events as well as catering for both the domestic and international leisure markets.

Protea Hotel Edward

The Protea Hotel Edward heralds a time of Victorian elegance. This world-famous hotel has played host to princes and presidents, field marshals, millionaires and movie stars since 1911

Protea Hotel Edward Durban

Location This comfortable hotel is located beside Durban's famous Golden Mile beach promenade within minutes of a selection of shops as well as the city centre. The nearest beach and links to the public transport system are to be found some 100 m from..

Protea Hotel Umhlanga Ridge

Location Within a few minutes drive from the main beachfront, the hotel is situated in the secure environment of the Umhlanga New Town Centre, opposite the Wavehouse. The Gateway Theatre of Shopping is also within walking distance and houses such facilities..

Quarters Avondale Road

In 1999, a Durban businessman had an inspiration to convert four Victorian homes on Durban

QUARTERS HOTEL

This charming hotel is located in the city of Durban, in the middle of a beautiful garden complex. The fine sandy beach as well as numerous shopping facilities and entertainment venues can be reached within 1km of the hotel. Durban airport can be reached..

RIVERSIDE HOTEL AND SPA

This hotel is located above the Umgeni River in Durban North and has unparalleled views across a magnificent green belt. There is easy access to Durban's central business district. It is 2 minutes from the Northern Freeway, leading to the Umhlanga..

Royal Palm Hotel Umhlanga

This luxurious apartment city hotel features a prime situation in the heart of Umhlanga, conveniently located adjacent to Gateway Theatre of Shopping in the up market New Town Centre in the Umhlanga Ridge. Ushaka Marine World is 17 kilometres away, Gateway..

Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani Durban

Location This city hotel is located on Durban's scenic Golden Mile, opposite the world-renowned surfers' paradise, North Beach. Guests will find bars and links to the public transport network in the immediate vicinity, while restaurants are just 200 m..

SOUTHERN SUN ELANGENI AND MAHARANI

LocationThis city hotel is located on Durban's scenic Golden Mile, opposite the world-renowned surfers' paradise, North Beach. Guests will find bars and links to the public transport network in the immediate vicinity, while restaurants are just..

SOUTHERN SUN ELANGENI AND MAHARANI - 55DES502

The Southern Sun Elangeni and Maharani is a 4-star beachfront hotel located in Durban's Golden Mile. The air-conditioned accommodations feature ocean views and equipped with flat-screen TV with DStv, tea/coffee making facilities, safe, work station,..

SUNSQUARE SUNCOAST HOTELS

Sunsquare Suncoast Hotel is located above the Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World, on Durban’s Golden Mile. It features an outdoor pool and the Suncoast Spa. It is a 5-minute walk to the beach. The air-conditioned, modern rooms have views over the..

The Saint James On Venice

Location The 14-room property is situated in the upmarket leafy suburb of Morningside, with close links to all amenities, Moses Mabhida Soccer Stadium, eateries and arterial routes. Durban International Airport is about 65 km from the hotel. Facilities..

The Square Boutique Hotel and Spa

The Square Boutique Hotel and Spa, is situated in a prime position among the energetic, active mix of retail and commercial properties on Umhlanga Ridge. A stone’s throw away from Gateway Theatre of Shopping and 15 minutes’ drive from the King Shaka International..

THREE CITIES ROYAL PALM HOTEL (formerly ROYAL PALM GATEWAY HOTEL)

Location The hotel is situated in the centre of Palm Boulevard directly opposite the Gateway Theatre of Shopping on Umhlanga Ridge, which is the largest shopping complex in the southern hemisphere with upmarket retail outlets including banks, shops, entertainment,..

WILD COAST SUN

FacilitiesInternet access and wireless internet access are available in the public areas. Various gastronomic options are available, including a restaurant and a bar. Guests can buy holiday mementos from the souvenir shop. Shopping facilities are available...

AFRICAN PRIDE AUDACIA MANOR BOUTIQUE HOTEL

FacilitiesThe establishment features various services and facilities for a comfortable and relaxing stay, including internet access, wireless internet access, a restaurant, a bar and a childcare service. A garden is among the features contributing to..

Beverly Hills Hotel

Location This exclusive beach hotel is located approximately 200 m from the nearest inviting beach. It enjoys a particularly attractive area in the northeast of Durban. Guests may enjoy fabulous views out over the beautiful Indian Ocean from the hotel...

Endless Horizons Boutique Hotel

FacilitiesInternet access, wireless internet access and a bar are available to guests.RoomsAll accommodation units feature air conditioning and a bathroom. A balcony is included as standard in most rooms and offers an extra space for relaxation. A safe..

FAIRMONT ZIMBALI LODGE

The FAIRMONT ZIMBALI LODGE is a Tourist hotel. Located in Zimbali Coastal Estate area. Shopping is accessible by bus/taxi and the nightlife/restaurants are easily accessible by taxi or bus from the hotel.

FAIRMONT ZIMBALI RESORT

The FAIRMONT ZIMBALI RESORT is a Tourist hotel. Located in Zimbali Coastal Estate area. Shopping is within walking distance and the nightlife/restaurants are located in the hotel.

Hilton Durban

Location Guests can explore KwaZulu-Natal's wild coastline from the hotel, located right next to the International Convention Centre, or laze on the beaches 400 m away. UShaka Marine World is located a 5-minute drive from the hotel. Facilities The establishment..

Oyster Box

Standing majestically on Umhlanga’s beachfront overlooking the Indian Ocean and the iconic lighthouse, The Oyster Box, a Member of Red Carnation Hotel Collection, is the ultimate in colonial charm and style.

ROYAL HOTEL

The rooms at this hotel enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Yacht Mole.FacilitiesThe establishment comprises a total of 251 accommodation units. Guests of the establishment are welcomed in the lobby, which has a 24-hour reception and a 24-hour check-out..

Sanchia Luxury Guesthouse

FacilitiesGuests of the establishment can enjoy a comfortable stay, thanks to the wide range of available services and facilities. The establishment offers wireless internet access for a comfortable stay. Guests arriving in their own vehicles can park..

The Oyster Box

LocationPerfectly situated on the ocean's edge, a brief 5-minute walk from Umhlanga Village Centre, the hotel is conveniently located for quick and easy access to Durban city centre, the international airport and numerous stylish shopping centres,..

Three Cities Auberge Hollandaise Guest House

FacilitiesThe hotel offers internet access, wireless internet access, a transfer service and a laundry. Guests arriving in their own vehicles can park in the car park.RoomsGuests will also find a balcony in most rooms. Facilities include a safe, tea and..

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Welcome to Durban

Information & Facts