Discover bustling Durban – the largest city in the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal. It is known for its warm, sub-tropical climate and beautiful beaches. The city has a long and rich history that dates back to the early 1800s, when it was founded as a British settlement.
The moving history of Durban
The area where Durban is located has a long history of human habitation. The indigenous Zulu people had lived in the region for centuries before European colonization. In the early 1800s, British settlers arrived in the area and established a small trading post, which eventually grew into the city of Durban.
Throughout the 1800s and 1900s, Durban developed into a major port and commercial center, with a diverse population that included British, Zulu, Indian, and other groups. The city played a significant role in the country’s sugar and textiles industries, and it became an important center for trade and commerce.
In the 20th century, Durban was at the center of the struggle against apartheid, the system of racial segregation and discrimination that was in place in South Africa until the 1990s. The city was home to many influential figures in the anti-apartheid movement, including Mahatma Gandhi, who lived in Durban for a time and launched his civil rights campaign from there.
So you see Durban has a long and interesting history, and there are several museums and cultural centers in the city where you can learn more about it. These include the Durban History Museum and the KwaZulu-Natal Museum.
Today, Durban is a vibrant and diverse city with a rich history and culture. It is a major economic hub and a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and diverse population.
Booking.comSightseeing – Discover bustling Durban
Durban is a city with many interesting sights and attractions. Here are a few places you might consider visiting while you’re in town.
Visit the beaches: Durban is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in South Africa, including the popular Golden Mile. The beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing, and there are also plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. The Durban Beachfront is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It features a promenade with restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, as well as a series of golden sandy beaches.
Enjoy the Durban Botanic Gardens – established in 1849, these beautiful gardens feature a wide variety of plants and flowers. It’s a great place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of nature.
Another popular park is the uShaka Marine World. This popular theme park is home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, seals, and sharks. It also has a large water park with slides and pools.
If you’re interested in wildlife and birdwatching, there as well is a park for you – the Umgeni River Bird Park: This park, located just outside of Durban, is home to over 400 species of birds, as well as a number of other animals.
Go shopping: Durban is home to a variety of shopping centers, markets, and street vendors, where you can find everything from local crafts to international brands. And while you are at it – check out the Moses Mabhida Stadium: This iconic stadium, built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, is a popular attraction in Durban. It offers tours, as well as a number of thrilling activities, such as bungee jumping and skycar rides.
If this is not enough – there are several companies in Durban that offer guided tours of the city and its surrounding areas. These tours can be a great way to learn more about the city and its culture, and to see some of the more off-the-beaten-path sights and attractions.
Discover Durban’s surroundings – sightseeing tips
Durban is part of Kwazulu-Natal which is adjacent to the Eastern Cape. It is known for its beautiful beaches, game reserves, and cultural heritage. Here are some suggestions for sightseeing in the region:
Explore the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, which is home to a wide variety of wildlife including the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo). If you need more inspiration, take a tour of the Valley of a Thousand Hills, which offers beautiful views of the countryside. It is home to many traditional Zulu villages. Learn about the history and culture of the Zulu people at the Shaka Heritage Site, which is dedicated to the life and legacy of the famous Zulu king, Shaka. Last not least – go hiking or mountain biking in the Drakensberg Mountains, which offer stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities.
Visit the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, which is home to a wide variety of wildlife including the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo). If you need more inspiration, take a tour of the Valley of a Thousand Hills, which offers beautiful views of the countryside. It is home to many traditional Zulu villages. Learn about the history and culture of the Zulu people at the Shaka Heritage Site, which is dedicated to the life and legacy of the famous Zulu king, Shaka. Last not least – go hiking or mountain biking in the Drakensberg Mountains, which offer stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities.
Take it from onshore animals to the water – recommended is snorkeling or scuba diving at the Aliwal Shoal, which is known for its clear waters and diverse marine life.
How to get to Durban
Durban is easily accessible by plane, train and rental car – everything is well connected, even big cruise ships dock here frequently. You can add Durban as an extension trip if you tour the famous Garden Route.
