Favoured by tourists from SA and abroad, Durban has so much to offer during the gorgeous winter months.
While other parts of the country contend with frost and chilling rain, we can look forward to crisp clear mornings and warm days, perfect for enjoying the great outdoors. Plus, with time off over the school holidays, why not take advantage of the fantastic facilities available to us, right here in our own back yard?
With temperatures in the 20s and glorious golden beaches, a day at the beach is a must. Make the most of the fantastic coastal promenades and walk, jog or ride the length of the beach, whether its Durban’s Golden Mile, Umhlanga or Ballito. For the more adventurous, take a ride in a rickshaw. They’ve been entertaining beachgoers for generations. Whatever you do, keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales and dolphins. There’s something so special about these majestic creatures.
For surfers, June and July offer some of the best conditions, as well as the opportunity to see the world’s best surfers in action at the Mr Price Pro in Ballito. There’s a feast of activities around the surf competition, including daily fashion shows and free concerts by hot local acts.
Did you know? Durban’s first 10 rickshaws were imported from Japan in 1892 by sugar magnate Marshall Campbell.
Kids under 12 will love the People’s Park at Moses Mabhida Stadium (www.mmstadium.com), with its play area, expansive lawns and 1km track. Plus, there’s space for skateboarding or riding bikes down the ramps of the stadium.
Drive a little further south to experience a voyage to the bottom of the ocean at uShaka Sea World (www.ushakamarineworld.co.za). There is something for the whole family, from the awe-inspiring aquarium to the fun of Wet and Wild Water Park and the Village Walk Shopping Centre. Sign up for the Ocean Walker experience to spend time underwater with rays, tuna and dorado, or take it a step further with the Shark Dive Experience.
Did you know? uShaka Sea World is the fifth largest aquarium in the world, with 32 tanks housing a total of 17,500 cubic metres of water.
Other ways to expend youthful energy include a session on the mountain bike trails at Giba Gorge (www.gibagorge.co.za), near Hillcrest, or take a hike through Krantzkloof Nature Reserve or Umhlanga’s Lagoon Nature Reserve. Groovy Balls Adventure Park (www.groovyballs.co.za) is the place to go for an adrenaline fuelled run inside a large transparent plastic ball. You’ll battle to get the kids back in the car!
We’re lucky to have a rich mix of cultures in Durban, contributing to our fabulous East Coast vibe. Explore somewhere new and learn more about one of these local cultures with a guided tour. Two of our favourites are the three-hour Oriental Walk-About (031 322 4173) in Durban’s CBD and the Inanda Heritage Route (031 322 4164).
If it’s retail therapy you’re after, then Gateway and The Pavilion are the places to be. Both offer world-class shopping with plenty of entertainment on the side. Don’t miss The Pavilion’s new food court and entertainment area, which was completed in May 2014 and offers cutting edge design and technology. Plus, you can get your fix of international fast food, with KZN’s first Burger King franchise.
For more hand-crafted goodies, there’s no shortage of markets in and around Durban. Each has its own unique character, with the wide range of stalls and locations offering something for the whole family. Popular options include I Heart Market at Moses Mabhida Stadium on the first Saturday of the month, the Litchi Orchard Market on the second Saturday and Shongweni Farmer’s Market, every Saturday. Foodies will love the Food Market in Durban North on the last Saturday of the month.
As we welcome visitors from far and wide for their much-anticipated July holidays, make sure you also enjoy what our beautiful city has to offer!