Where to stay
Hotels in Durban
Book direct on our own Durban hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.
Madwaleni River Lodge - Babanango Game Reserve
Madwaleni River Lodge - Babanango Game Reserve | Durban, 4001, ZA
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At a glance
Climate
Subtropical
Languages
English and Zulu and Afrikaans
Local currency
ZAR
(ZAR)
Local time
(GMT+2)
Ideal trip length
3–7 days
Cost level
3 of 5 · our research
Suggested area to stay
Umhlanga
Tap water
Generally described as safe to drink
Tipping
10-15% expected
What this place is for
History
95 · Outstanding
Culture
90 · Outstanding
Food
90 · Outstanding
Family
80 · Very good
Our own 0–100 ratings for this one destination. They describe a city; they are not a league table of cities.
Food to try
Bunny Chow
Curry
Boerewors Roll
Shisa Nyama
When to visit Durban
How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.
Best months: July
Busiest: Dec-Jan, Apr, Jul
-
Jan70
Hot, humid, rainy
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Feb65
Hot, humid, rainy
-
Mar75
Warm, less rain
-
Apr85
Warm, pleasant
-
May80
Mild, dry
-
Jun85
Mild, dry, sunny
-
Jul90
Mild, dry, sunny
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Aug85
Mild, dry, sunny
-
Sept80
Warm, pleasant
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Oct75
Warm, increasing rain
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Nov70
Hot, humid, rainy
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Dec80
Hot, humid, rainy
Things to do in Durban
7 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.
Showing 7 of 7 places ·
Best in the morning
3 places
Relax on the Golden Mile Beaches
Central Beachfront 3 hrs
Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and surfing along Durban's famous coastline.
Explore Victoria Street Market
Central Durban 2 hrs
Immerse yourself in a sensory overload of spices, crafts, and traditional goods.
Stroll through Durban Botanic Gardens
Berea 2.5 hrs
Discover ancient trees, orchid house, and serene landscapes in Africa's oldest botanical garden.
Best in the afternoon
1 place
Savor Authentic Bunny Chow
Various 1 hr
Taste Durban's iconic hollowed-out bread loaf filled with spicy curry.
Any time of day
3 places
Moses Mabhida Stadium SkyCar & Big Rush Swing
Stamford Hill 1.5 hrs
Ascend the iconic arch for panoramic views or brave the world's tallest swing.
uShaka Marine World
Point Waterfront 4 hrs
Explore aquariums, water slides, and a shipwreck-themed village.
Day Trip to Valley of 1000 Hills
Outer West 6 hrs
Experience Zulu culture and breathtaking views of rolling hills and valleys.
Durban itineraries
First-timer highlights
3 Days in Durban — First-Timer Highlights
Uncover the best of Durban, from golden beaches to vibrant markets and accessible wildlife encounters.
This 3-day itinerary is meticulously crafted for first-time visitors eager to experience the diverse charms of Durban. Explore its iconic beachfront, delve into rich cultural history, savor local flavors, and venture into nearby natural wonders. Perfect for those seeking a dynamic blend of urban excitement and accessible nature.
3 Days
11 Stops
See the full plan
With the family
3 Days in Durban — Family with Kids
Sun-kissed adventures and wild discoveries await your family in Durban!
This 3-day Durban adventure is tailor-made for families with kids, blending thrilling marine encounters with lush botanical explorations and exciting wildlife visits. Discover golden beaches, iconic city views, and engaging attractions designed to captivate both young and old, ensuring a memorable South African getaway.
3 Days
12 Stops
See the full plan
For couples
2 Days in Durban — Romance
Experience the vibrant coastal charm of Durban with your loved one.
This intimate 2-day itinerary is crafted for couples seeking a blend of relaxation, adventure, and culinary delights in Durban. From sun-kissed beaches to cultural explorations and romantic dining, it promises unforgettable moments for two.
2 Days
10 Stops
See the full plan
Culture and history
3 Days in Durban — Culture & History
Uncover the vibrant tapestry of Durban's past and present, from colonial grandeur to Zulu heritage.
This immersive 3-day itinerary delves deep into Durban's rich cultural and historical landscape. Explore significant landmarks, vibrant markets, and poignant museums, perfect for history buffs and culture enthusiasts eager to understand the city's diverse influences and resilient spirit.
3 Days
15 Stops
See the full plan
Food and drink
2 Days in Durban — Food & Wine
A culinary journey through Durban's vibrant flavors and coastal charm.
This itinerary is designed for foodies and wine enthusiasts eager to explore Durban's unique culinary landscape, from spicy curries to fresh seafood and local craft beverages. Discover the city's rich cultural influences through its diverse gastronomic offerings, perfect for those seeking an authentic taste of South Africa's east coast.
2 Days
10 Stops
See the full plan
Things to book
Tours and activities in Durban
Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.
Activity tour
Authentic Zulu food
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Bar Crawl in Durban
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Drakensberg Giant's Castle Cave Art & Mandela Capture Site Tour from Durban
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Full Day Hluhluwe Imfolozi Private Game Reserve from Durban
Free cancellationFind deals
Multi day tour
Isimangaliso Wetlands Park & Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game R 2 Day Tour From Durban
Free cancellationFind deals
Multi day tour
Drakensberg Mountains & Hiking 2 Day Tour From Durban
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Sani Pass Lesotho Full Day 4 x 4 Tour From Durban
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Tala Game Reserve, Phezulu Safari & Natal Lion Park Full Day Tour From Durban
Free cancellationFind deals
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Practical ratings
Our own ratings and key insights for this destination.
Near Durban
Straight-line distance from the centre of Durban.
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Getaways from Durban
Places people from Durban travel to, from our own travel research.
Cape Town
South Africa
Johannesburg
South Africa
Pretoria
South Africa
Port Elizabeth
South Africa
Kruger National Park
South Africa
Maputo
Mozambique
Victoria Falls
Zimbabwe
Windhoek
Namibia
Gaborone
Botswana
Mauritius
Mauritius