What to Do on a Short Visit to Durban

Paul posts a comment, asking – What can he do during his four-night visit to Durban?

To put Paul’s question in context, he’s first going to Sabi Sabi, near the Kruger Park, and then he’s off to Caprivi in Namibia, to fish for tiger fish, so the offerings of a major urban center like Durban may come across as a touch pedestrian.

Please feel free to post your own advice to Paul (and others who plan to visit Durban). Just add a comment, below.

To answer Paul, here is the generic list of things to do in Durban (how strong the temptation is to add, “when you’re dead”!):

Ride the excellent surf!
Visit the Durban Botanical Gardens (just outside the city center, featuring many rare cycads, a “prehistoric” plant species).
Visit uShaka Marine World.
Go to the Indian Market in the city center (grab a bunny chow – a loaf of bread hollowed out and filled with curry – the world’s most democratic food, and dead cheap).
Day trip to the Valley of a Thousand Hills (Tourism Link | Tour Link). A bit touristy, but absolutely beautiful.

Indian food, meanwhile, is an absolute must in Durban: try The Ulundi at the Royal Hotel in the city center. For more standard fare, go to one of the suburbs on the hill that overlooks the city – particularly Morningside, whose 8th & 9th Ave., and Florida Road, off Argyle Road (map) are full of excellent eateries – and decent entertainment for the 35+ set.

Last, to find out what’s on in Durban, visit any one of these sites: