Durban can be best described as South Africa’s Miami Beach, only this time better because it is in Africa! Africa is actually the most friendly continent on earth and so if you are looking for a perfect getaway or holiday, Durban is one place around Africa to be. Below is a number of astonishing tourist attractions in Durban that are a must see.
1. The Golden Mile
The wide stretch of the golden sands though artificially separated by a pier will provide an amazing opportunity for sun-worshipers, surfers and swimmers to enjoy the sub-tropical sun and a swim in the warm Indian ocean waters. The beach is probably one of the safest beaches around the world being guarded by lifeguards and shark nets all year around. The Mile runs from the South beach where the uShaka Marine world is located to Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World. You might not be a morning person but this beachfront will give you a reason to be up and enjoy the sunrise.
2. uShaka Marine World
Being the host to one of the largest ports in the world, it only makes sense to have a world-class aquarium and marine park in Durban. uShaka is a phenomenal theme park with all the indispensable attractions in tow. Here you can treat yourself to magnificent dolphin shows, ‘Waterworld’ park, restaurant and thrill rides.
3. Gillitts
Located 35 kilometres west of Durban between Hillcrest and Kloof lies a leafy green village, a peaceful and relaxing suburb of Durban. At Gillitts you will also have a chance to enjoy the amazing Krantzkloof Nature Reserve, the Inanda and Shongweni dams. Gillitts also offers golf lovers an opportunity to extend their expertise at the numerous golf clubs in the village among them the famous Kloof golf course.
4. Durban North
15 minutes North of the city of Durban, on the northern side of the Umgeni river mouth is the amazing attractions of Durban North and Umhlanga. The place was once a coastal dune forest and some of the remains are still preserved in the Mangrove swamps and the Umgeni bird parks. Umhlanga, which is part of the Durban North is one of the fastest growing tourism destinations around the world with most of Durban’s biggest and complex businesses moving to Umhlanga’s Rocks villages. The lovely cottages, guest houses, and restaurants only give the young and old visiting the area a reason to stay even longer.
5. Glenashley
Again, located north of the Umgeni River mouth and the Blue Lagoon, which serves as the finish line of the annual Duzi Canoe marathon, lies the Glenashley. Glenashley offers its visitors a place to reside while enjoying the magnificent beach among other attractions like the Beachwood Mangrove Nature Reserve. Above all, it is at Glenashley that you will find almost anything on your tour to Durban shopping list with no hassle.
6. Moses Mabhida Stadium
The multi-use stadium named after a former general secretary of the South African communist party Moses Mabhida is one of the Durban’s must-see. The stadium was one of the host stadiums of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and is located adjacent to the Kings Park stadium. The stadium will also hosted the 2013 African Cup of Nations among other tournaments, events and concerts are regularly held in the stadium.
7. Natural Science Museum, Durban
This is one of the best places to get in touch with the legacy of the Kwazulu- Natal province. The place is quite diminutive but nonetheless, it is home to some of the world’s oldest fossils and ancient artefacts.
8. The Berea
Everywhere you visit you have to take photos. In Durban, the Berea gives you one of the greatest photoshoot areas you can imagine. The Berea is strategically located to overlook the Indian ocean and the city of Durban at large. The lofty neighbourhood is also one of the traditional bastions of expensive real estates in the region.
9. The Durban City Hall
As one of the most prominent colonial landmark in the City of Durban, the Hall is pretty much a relic of the past in modern-day South Africa. Built in the 20th century in veritable Edwardian style, the hall is still valuable as a cultural and historic tourist attraction in Durban.
See Also: Fascinating Facts about the City of Cape Town
10. Umgeni River Bank Bird Park
If waters and trees could talk then they would tell the story of the uncountable types and numbers of birds that frequent the park. The park offers an opportunity to bird watchers to view and take photos of birds at close range. It is one of the most successful homes for the largest number of birds around Africa.