With over 320 days of sunshine per year, Durban is a holidaymakers' paradise. The 6 km 'Golden Mile' of beaches are packed with sun worshippers throughout the year, while the warm waters of the Indian Ocean entice swimmers, surfers, divers and other watersport enthusiasts.
For those looking for things to do away from the sand and sea, Durban is a bustling cosmopolitan city with excellent restaurants, museums, live music and theatre.
Whilst the mid-summer months of February and March are known for being extremely hot and humid, the rest of the year is milder, and the tropical sunny climate gives the city a constant 'feel-good' appeal.
Click here to book your accommodation in Durban, or ask us to plan an itinerary for you including Durban as part of your trip to South Africa.
Visiting Durban
The city, although the second largest in South Africa, still feels relatively small and is easy to navigate around.
Unless you are really unsure about driving in a strange city, you can quite easily visit all the major attractions in one day, which include the Victoria Street market, City Hall and the Botanical Gardens.
However, as in every other city in South Africa, if you want to visit one of the townships, a guided tour is the only way to do this.
The Durban Information Centre, on the North Beach beach front, will be happy to assist you in booking a tour.
Durban's Population
Nearly 3 million people live in Durban today, and its population is growing faster than almost any other city in the world.
Durban is also home to the largest population of Indian descendents in South Africa, whose ancestors were originally shipped to the region in the 19th century as slaves. Nearly 1 million Indians live in Durban today.
It is not surprising, therefore, that the city is renowned for its aromatic spice markets and delicious curries - reputed to be some of the best in the world outside of India itself.
Eating Out
As well as the Asian influences, the combination of traditional African and European influences make Durban a foodie's heaven.
Whether it's fine dining or a quick bite to eat that you are looking for, the many restaurants around the city centre and the newly developed Wilson's Wharf waterfront area offer a fantastic variety of exciting dishes and food styles.
Wilson's Wharf is one of Durban's trendiest eating areas, and has superb views over the harbour and marina, especially at night when it is all lit up.
The city is also proud to be home to several restaurant establishments which have been constantly voted amongst the Top 10 in KwaZulu-Natal for the past few years.
Regardless of your budget or taste buds, eating out in Durban will be an experience in itself.
