Durban South Africa 5 Day Itinerary

Durban, South Africa 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Beaches and Seafood

  • Morning: Start your day at the iconic Golden Mile, a stretch of beautiful beaches along the Indian Ocean. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade, visit the Durban Pier, and enjoy the street performers and vendors.
  • Lunch: Head to The Oyster Box in Umhlanga for some fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.
  • Afternoon: Visit the uShaka Marine World, a theme park that combines an aquarium, water slides, and a beach area.
  • Evening: Check-in at The Beverly Hills Hotel, a luxurious hotel with breathtaking ocean views.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at The Grill Room at the hotel, serving up delicious steaks and seafood.

Day 2: Cultural Experiences

  • Morning: Visit the Phansi Museum, showcasing the history and culture of KwaZulu-Natal. Take a guided tour to learn about the traditional Zulu people.
  • Lunch: Head to The Station Masters House, a charming restaurant serving up local cuisine in a historic building.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Victoria Embankment, a scenic waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and a naval museum.
  • Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Durban at Florida Road, known for its bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

  • Morning: Take a guided hike up The Bluff, offering stunning views of the city and ocean. Alternatively, visit the Durban Botanic Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch or grab some food at The Tea Garden within the gardens.
  • Afternoon: Go on a thrilling Shark Cage Diving experience with one of the many operators in Durban.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Cargo Hold, a trendy restaurant serving up international cuisine.

Day 4: Historical Landmarks

  • Morning: Visit the Moses Mabhida Stadium, a historic stadium that hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and architecture.
  • Lunch: Head to The Brasserie at the nearby Suncoast Casino, serving up delicious buffet-style meals.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Old Durban Railway Station, a historic landmark with a museum and shops.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Roma Revolving Restaurant, offering stunning views of the city while you dine.

Day 5: Markets and Shopping

  • Morning: Visit the bustling Victoria Street Market, where you can find everything from souvenirs to traditional clothing.
  • Lunch: Grab some food at one of the many stalls or restaurants in the market.
  • Afternoon: Head to Gateway Theatre of Shopping, a large shopping mall with a variety of stores and entertainment options.
  • Evening: End your trip with dinner at The Sugar Club, a trendy restaurant serving up international cuisine.

Things to Know:

  • Durban is known for its tropical climate, so be sure to pack light and breathable clothing.
  • The city has a high crime rate, so take necessary precautions such as using reputable taxi services and avoiding walking alone in dimly lit areas.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting cultural attractions.

Transportation:

  • King Shaka International Airport is the closest airport to Durban. From there, you can take a taxi or shuttle service to your accommodation.
  • Use reputable taxi services such as Zippy Cabs or Umhlanga Taxis.
  • The city has an extensive bus network, but it may not be the most convenient option for tourists.

Tips:

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
  • Don’t drink tap water; instead opt for bottled or filtered water.
  • Learn some basic Zulu phrases to show respect for the local culture.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Take a day trip to the Valley of 1000 Hills, a scenic area with stunning views and traditional villages.
  • Visit the Durban Natural Science Museum, showcasing exhibits on natural history, dinosaurs, and more.
  • Go on a Dolphin Watching Tour or take a Sunset Cruise to see Durban from a different perspective.