Durban is one of Africa's tour departure hubs.
Dynamic and culturally rich, Durban is South Africa’s 3rd largest city after Johannesburg and Cape Town. Durban is famous for its golden sand, Indian and Zulu heritage, surfing, and sharks. Also known by the Zulu eThekwini, Durban sits on KwaZulu-Natal’s south coast.
Inviting, warm, and subtropical, Durban’s climate is perfect for beach enthusiasts. The city hugs an extraordinary stretch of breathtaking coastline, highlighted by the famed Golden Mile. Soft golden sand, warm Indian Ocean waters, and waves combine to offer the quintessential beach escape. Durban offers an abundance of water sports from diving and snorkelling to body boarding and surfing, as well as relaxation, family fun, and exciting nightlife.
Part of Durban's allure is the cultural mosaic that makes up its diverse population. Historically a Zulu stronghold, Durban has been shaped by British colonial policies, including the use of Indian labour from about 1860. Today, Durban is famous for having the largest Indian population outside of India, a fact reflected in some of Durban’s most famous foods like curry and Bunny chow.
History enthusiasts will find Durban fascinating. Visit the KwaMuhle Museum, which focuses on South Africa’s apartheid legacy and fight for freedom, the Campbell Collection at Muckleneuk House, Phansi House, or walk in Gandhi’s footsteps on the historical Inanda heritage route. Plant lovers can discover the Durban Botanic Gardens, among Africa’s oldest, with lush greenery, exotic plant species, and tranquil walking paths.
Durban’s most contemporary icon is the Moses Mabhida Stadium. Visit the stadium on a tour for panoramic views of the city, a SkyCar ride, and a bridge swing, to mention only a few of the attractions.
For safari enthusiasts and nature lovers, Durban is the gateway to the nearby Valley of a Thousand Hills, Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park, and the Isimangaliso Wetland Park, as well as the renowned Aliwal Shoal just off the coast.
With its lively atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural surroundings, Durban caters to every traveller’s interests. Whether seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, exploring historical and cultural sites, indulging in culinary delights, or embarking on an action-packed exploration of nature, Durban promises an unforgettable journey of discovery.
- The Golden Mile has some of the best beaches in Africa.
- Rent a surfboard at Durban’s New Pier or North Beach and dive into a world of surfing.
- Visit the uShaka Marine Park which boasts one of the largest aquariums in the world.
- Visit the Moses Mabhida Stadium, an architectural marvel and iconic landmark.
- Explore Durban’s cultural history on the Inanda Heritage Route where both Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela left their mark.
- Delve into Durban’s history at the KwaMuhle Museum, and discover the city’s journey from its early settlement to the struggles of apartheid and the fight for freedom.
- Uncover the history of Indian indentured labourers at the Old Courthouse Museum.
- View the Campbell Collection at Muckleneuk House
- Considered to be home to one of the world’s largest collections of African crafts, Phansi Museum is not to be missed.
- Spend an afternoon walking around Durban’s Indian Quarter
- Try the local culinary speciality: Bunny Chow
- Visit the largest Hare Krishna Temple in the Southern Hemisphere
- Visit the Durban Botanical Gardens which is Africa’s oldest continually operating botanical garden, and houses one of the largest cycad collections in the world
- Explore Durban’s Mangrove Swamps on a guided tour or paddle through the mangroves in a kayak.
- Take a scenic drive to the Valley of a Thousand Hills, and explore Zulu culture.
- Get up close with sharks and shark conservation at the KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board.
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Durban is the gateway to KwaZulu-Natal and offers bountiful opportunities to explore and engage from the contemporary urban jungle to traditional Zulu culture, classical safaris in the thick African bush, and coastal adventures in marine environments. These are some of Durban’s top attractions.
Durban is celebrated for its soft golden beaches, from the city centre to the suburbs. Whether you're into sunbathing, kitesurfing, or admiring sandcastle art at uShaka Beach, there's something for everyone. Families can enjoy safe swimming at Northern Umdloti Beach, while nature lovers may spot migrating humpback whales in winter. North Beach is a go-to for bodyboarding enthusiasts, and Durban is a convenient base for exploring the secluded beaches of the South Coast.
The Golden Mile is one of Durban's most popular attractions. Running for approximately 6 km / 3.7 miles from uShaka Beach in the south, to Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World in the north, the Golden Mile is Durban’s top attraction. The Golden Mile offers something for everyone. From swimming and surfing on golden beaches like North, South, and Addington Beach, where lifeguards and shark nets ensure safety, to jogging and sunbathing on the warm sands, the Mile provides a diverse coastal experience. Ushaka Marine World is a fantastic destination for families with water rides, huge aquariums, educational experiences, and a rope adventure park. For a more sedate experience, stroll along the scenic promenade which features stalls with traditional Zulu arts and crafts, touristy items, and souvenirs, along with a lively skate park at Bay of Plenty Beach for skating enthusiasts and bikers alike.
Durban's North Beach, situated to the north of the harbour and part of the famed Golden Mile, stands at the heart of the redeveloped Durban beachfront. Originally gaining popularity in the 1970s for its subtropical winter sunshine and sandy beaches, the Golden Mile underwent extensive modernization for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Now featuring international-class attractions like uShaka Marine World, alongside numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes, the beach offers golden sands backed by a palm-lined promenade. The high-rise hotels and modern structures along the beachfront create a distinctive skyline. Protected by shark nets and patrols, the beach is renowned for world-class waves, making it a favoured spot for surfing, particularly bodyboarding. The inviting sea temperature, seldom drops below 22°C / 71.7°F, adding to the allure of this iconic Durban destination.
Between North Beach and the uShaka Marine World is another Golden Mile favourite, South Beach. Popular with swimmers, and surfers, because of lifesavers and shark nets, South Beach has smaller waves than its northerly neighbour, making it popular with families. Behind South Beach is a fashionable and upmarket area replete with restaurants, bars, and a beachfront flea market. South Beach is also home to the Time Warp Surf Museum which tells the story of Durban’s surf culture.
A mere ten-minute drive from the vibrant central business district, Addington Beach is effortlessly accessible and irresistibly charming. A Golden Mile favourite, Addington Beach features a vast expanse of golden sand that offers a safe family-friendly experience with shallow entries. Lifeguards are on duty year-round, and shark nets enhance safety for swimmers and water sports enthusiasts. Renowned for surfing, thanks to the southwest-driven breaks, Addington Beach also provides opportunities for snorkelling and scuba diving. Addington Beach is generally less crowded compared to its neighbouring beaches.
A short 40-minute drive north of Durban sits the charming coastal town of Ballito. A favourite destination for South Africans, Ballito offers an array of holiday activities including beautiful beaches. Thompson’s Bay offers a tranquil atmosphere shielded from the wind, calm waters, and intriguing rocky formations. Families can take advantage of a walled tidal pool, providing a secure option for those cautious about swimming in the open ocean. The presence of lifeguards and shark nets adds an extra layer of safety, though it's worth noting that the nets are temporarily removed each year in preparation for the annual Sardine Run.
Just a 20-minute drive from central Durban, Umhlanga is a favourite amongst savvy travellers and locals alike. The main attraction is Umhlanga Rocks beach, which boasts secure swimming waters and expansive golden sands, safeguarded by lifeguards and protective shark nets. In the intervals between refreshing dips, explore the iconic Umhlanga Lighthouse or take a stroll along the beach's pier, inspired by whale bones. A well-paved promenade connects to the town's beachfront establishments, offering a plethora of shops, restaurants, and bars. Umhlanga gets crowded in December as holidaygoers descend for the festive season.
uShaka Marine World sprawls across 16 hectares at one end of Durban’s Golden Mile. Ushaka Marine World is a dynamic theme park comprising eight distinct attractions. uShaka Sea World is home to the 5th-largest aquarium in the world, uShaka Wet and Wild boasts the highest water slide in Africa. In addition to these attractions, the park also encompasses uShaka Sea Animal Encounters Island, uShaka Beach, uShaka Village Walk, uShaka Kids World, uShaka Dangerous Creatures, and Chimp & Zee. With a diverse range of offerings, uShaka Marine World boasts the largest collection of sharks in the southern hemisphere, a 1940s steamer wreck hosting two restaurants, and an extensive shopping centre. Ushaka Sea World is a fantastic family destination with loads to do.
Any time of day or night in Durban, the beaches are dotted with surfers of varying skill levels heading out to the backline. Renowned as one of South Africa's premier surf destinations, Durban caters to both beginners and seasoned pros. For those starting out, uShaka Beach and Vetch’s Pier offer entry-level waves, while experienced surfers gravitate to North Beach, Bay of Plenty, and Dairy Beach north of the Golden Mile. Venture south of the city centre, and you'll discover top surf spots like Ansteys Beach and Cove Rock. It's essential to be considerate of fellow surfers and patiently wait your turn, as Durban locals are known for their intolerance towards visitors encroaching on their waves.
If your preference is to explore beneath the waves rather than ride them, consider doing your PADI dive course on Durban’s beachfront. Dive options include dives with sharks in the uShaka aquarium or expeditions into the open ocean. From beginner courses to advanced open water, rescue diver qualifications, or other speciality courses, there are plenty of diving options in Durban, South Africa. Durban’s nearby dive sites feature reefs teeming with aquatic life and several intriguing shipwrecks, with Coopers being the most notable—a substantial wreck of mysterious origins, named after a nearby lighthouse.
For an even more intimate shark encounter, consider a short 40-minute drive south of Durban to the quaint coastal town of Umkomaas. Umkomass is the gateway to Aliwal Shoal, an offshore reef system renowned globally for shark diving. Various scuba diving centres in the area provide baited shark dives, utilizing chum to attract oceanic blacktip sharks, bull sharks, and tiger sharks during their respective seasons. Sightings are almost guaranteed, and if you lack a scuba license, some operators offer shark snorkelling and even shark cage diving, ensuring an added layer of reassurance for those seeking an extraordinary shark encounter.
Established in December 1849, the Durban Botanic Gardens is Durban's oldest public institution and Africa's oldest surviving botanical garden. The Durban Botanic Garden covers 15 hectares in a subtropical climate, and was originally founded by Dr. Charles Johnston and was dedicated to assisting Kew Gardens in introducing economically valuable plants worldwide. The gardens boast an extensive collection of cycads, ferns, and orchids. With a rich array of trees, palms, and social events like Victorian tea parties, the Durban Botanic Gardens remain a vibrant and historic horticultural haven.
For those looking for a little history, exploring Durban's museums is a captivating journey through the city's rich history, art, and culture. Kwamuhle Museum offers insights into the apartheid era, chronicling the struggle for freedom. Phansi House showcases an extensive collection of southern African art, offering a unique blend of indigenous creativity. The Campbell Collections, housed in a neo-Cape Dutch-style house, Muckleneuk, present a trove of African and European artworks. KZNSA Gallery is a contemporary art hub, featuring diverse exhibitions and fostering local artistic talent. The Durban Maritime Museum delves into Durban's seafaring history, while the Natural Science Museum showcases the region's biodiversity. Old House Museum provides a glimpse into colonial life, preserving Durban's architectural heritage. Finally, walk in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi on the Inanda Heritage Route. With each museum offering a distinct perspective, visitors can immerse themselves in Durban's multifaceted cultural and historical narrative.
The Moses Mabhida Stadium is a versatile sporting arena named after Moses Mabhida, a former General Secretary of the South African Communist Party. Renowned for hosting various events such as bungee jumping, concerts, cricket, soccer, golf, motorsports, and rugby union, it was built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Boasting a capacity of 55,500 (expandable to 75,000), the stadium is a hub of activity within the Kings Park Sporting Precinct. Offering adventure activities like the SkyCar ride and Adventure Walk, as well as Segway tours and the unique stadium Big Swing, Moses Mabhida Stadium is a dynamic destination with a blend of sports, entertainment, and thrill-seeking experiences.
During the 1800s, British colonialists used a system of indentured labour from India to work the huge sugarcane plantations of KwaZulu-Natal. Many of these labourers chose to establish homes in South Africa, and their descendants continue to reside in Durban today. Durban boasts the largest Indian community outside of India and is renowned throughout the country for its vibrant curry culture. A distinctively South African iteration of Indian cuisine in South Africa is the "bunny chow". Bunny Chow consists of a half loaf of bread hollowed out and generously filled with curry. This delectable dish can be savoured at numerous eateries across the Durban.
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From the coast to the Drakensberg Mountains, KwaZulu-Natal rises from sea level to over 3000 m in just 160 km. This region features moisture-catching escarpments deeply carved by an abundance of rivers, making it unparalleled in southern Africa. KwaZulu-Natal has a captivating blend of mountain grandeur, sparkling waters, bushveld landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and forested pathways, and presents a unique opportunity to explore a natural paradise. The province's protected areas provide a haven for big-game wildlife, cultural and historical treasures, wetlands, alpine environments, and marine wonders.
Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is the crown jewel of Kwazulu-Natal province, dating back to the 1890s when it was established to safeguard the southern white rhino which had been hunted to the brink of extinction. Hluhluwe-Imfolozi covers 960 km² / 96,000 ha of hilly bushveld, 280 kilometres / 170 miles north of Durban in South Africa. Today, Hluhluwe is credited with conservation efforts and the resurgence of rhino populations. It is home to the Big 5, with white rhinos being particularly abundant. The park's lush terrain, characterized by rolling hills, valleys, forests, and grassy plains, provides a scenic backdrop to unparalleled wildlife viewing. While the thick vegetation poses a challenge for spotting big cats, the reintroduction of wild dogs adds an element of excitement.
Isimangaliso Wetland Park is situated about 235 km / 146 miles north of Durban by road. The park is a breathtaking natural wonder, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ecological treasure encompasses an expansive mosaic of ecosystems, including pristine beaches, coastal forests, and diverse wetlands. Isimangaliso Wetland Park is South Africa’s 3rd largest protected area and covers about 280 km of coastline from the Mozambican border in the north to the St, Lucia estuary in the south. In total, Isimangaliso covers around 3,280 km² / 810,000 acres of natural ecosystems. Landscapes include lush marshes and meandering estuaries to dense woodlands and ancient dune systems. Isimangaliso, which means "miracle and wonder" in Zulu, lives up to its name by providing sanctuary to a remarkable array of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and a wealth of bird species. Visitors can explore this ecological haven through boat cruises, guided safaris, and self-guided trails, immersing themselves in the unparalleled beauty and biodiversity that defines Isimangaliso Wetland Park.
The Drakensberg Mountains, derived from the Zulu "uKhahlamba," or the Barrier of Spears, are the highest mountains in South Africa. With peaks rising over 3,000 m / 10,000 feet, the scenery of the Drakensberg is breathtaking. While the Drakensberg runs for over 1000 km, in KwaZulu-Natal, the best parks are the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Injisuthi. Ukhahlamba Drakensberg National Park covers over 2,428 km² / 938 miles², includes the Royal Natal National Park, and adjoins the Sehlabathebe National Park in the Kingdom of Lesotho forming the Maloti-Drakensberg Park. Injisuthi has some of the most spectacular scenery in the Drakensberg and offers multi-day hikes to some of the highest summits, or day walks in the breathtaking foothills of these spectacular mountains.
Nestled along the Umgeni River's north bank in Durban North, the Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve is a lush expanse of mangrove trees spanning 76 hectares. This reserve has the largest mangrove in Durban with red, black, and white mangrove trees. Traverse the raised boardwalk that sits above the high tide line, and explore the mangrove swamps and bird hides. The reserve, accessible on weekends, reveals a diverse birdlife, featuring rarities like the Mangrove Kingfisher and Natal Nightjar.
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The summer months from October to March is Durban’s high season, offering a plethora of water sports and activities, excellent weather, and warm Indian Ocean currents. This is a popular time to visit Durban in South Africa and it can get crowded, especially during the school holidays over December.
The winter months, June to August, may be better for a safari to Hluhluwe, Durban’s mild climate is excellent all year round.
To avoid the crowds, aim for the shoulder seasons, which could also bring better rates for activities.
Durban is located on the eastern coast of South Africa, in the KwaZulu-Natal Province. South Africa’s 3rd largest city, Durban sits on the Indian Ocean and is home to South Africa’s largest port.
Durban experiences a warm, subtropical climate, characterized by hot and humid summers and mild, frost-free winters. The average summer temperature hovers around 24°C / 75°F, creating warm conditions for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Winters are relatively mild, with an average temperature of 17°C / 63°F.
Durban receives an annual rainfall of 1,009 mm / 39.7 inches, contributing to its lush landscape.
This favourable climate makes Durban, South Africa, an inviting destination throughout the year, with pleasant conditions for various outdoor activities and the enjoyment of its scenic coastal beauty.
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International travellers can fly directly to Durban’s King Shaka International Airport (DUR).
Situated around 35 km / 22 mi north of the city centre, King Shaka International Airport was completed in time for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, which was hosted by South Africa.
King Shaka International also has a domestic terminal that connects Durban to South Africa’s other major travel hubs, Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha).
There is a popular overland tour route from Johannesburg to Kruger, Eswatini, Hluhluwe, Isimangaliso, and Durban. This overland route can be done north to south or south to north.
Navigating Durban is made convenient with various transportation options catering to different preferences:
Explore Durban and its surroundings at your own pace by renting a car. Multiple rental companies operate in the city, providing options at King Shaka International Airport and within Durban. It is possible to rent a car in Durban and drip it off in Johannesburg, Port Elizabeth, or Cape Town.
Metered taxis, available at taxi ranks and major hotels, offer reliability in getting around. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt provide additional options for convenient and pre-agreed transportation.
The Durban People Mover Bus system connects major attractions with fixed routes, providing an air-conditioned and straightforward way to explore the city centre and beachfront areas.
Minibus taxis, commonly used by locals, follow specific routes, offering an affordable but potentially crowded option that is notorious for their helter-skelter approach to traffic, safety and maintenance.
Durban Metro Rail connects suburbs and neighbouring towns, while various bus companies, including Intercape, Greyhound, and Translux, cater to inter-city travel.
*When utilizing public transportation, keep belongings secure, stay aware of surroundings, and follow safety precautions. Checking transport schedules and planning routes in advance, especially during peak travel times, is advisable.
Durban's city centre and beachfront areas are pedestrian-friendly and suitable for short walks. Dedicated cycling lanes and rental services cater to those who prefer exploring on two wheels.
Durban has plenty of accommodation options on offer. From luxury hotels and guest houses to friendly B&Bs and backpackers, Durban has something to offer every traveller and every budget.
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Various things will affect the price of a holiday to Durban. African Budget Safaris has numerous safari packages that visit Durban. Below is a list of 5 popular tour packages offered by African Budget Safaris.*
*Safari costs do fluctuate with the Rand dollar exchange rate. The costs below are mentioned as a rough guide.
If you would like to look at the cost of a South African safari, then you can read our blog How Much Does a South African Safari Cost here. Alternatively, talk with one of our experienced safari experts who are happy to help you plan a bespoke safari itinerary.
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Durban is generally considered safe for tourists. The local government emphasizes visitor safety in tourist hot spots. It is, however, important to stay vigilant just as you would in any other major city. Be aware that the overall crime rate in Durban remains relatively high, and you should not take any unnecessary risks. Some areas are safer than others, and Golden Mile, the Bluff, Berea, Chatsworth, Umlazi, and Umhlanga are all considered to be relatively safe areas.
Often the best way to see the sights in Durban is to hire a local guide who is familiar with the ebb and flow of the city and will be able to safely navigate the landscape.
If you are unfortunate enough to be a victim of a crime, stay calm, hand over your belongings, and report the incident to the police as quickly as possible.
When visiting South Africa it is advisable to be up to date with routine vaccinations including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), polio, tetanus, and diphtheria.
You will need a yellow fever vaccination if travelling from a Yellow fever country, and several pre-travel vaccinations are optional like hepatitis A & B, and rabies.
While Durban is malaria-free, there is a risk of malaria when you visit Hluhluwe-Imfolozi and Isimangaliso Wetland Park. It is therefore advisable to arrange malaria prophylactics before you travel. Malaria medication is easily available and effective against the disease.
This vaccination advice is meant as a general guide and you should always check in with your local travel clinic a few months before your departure.
Additional resources:
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South Africa is Africa’s leading economy and uses the South African Rand as the main currency. The exchange rate is VERY favourable especially for US$ and GB£, making South Africa an excellent value-for-money destination.
Cash is readily available in cities, most small towns (especially in the western Cape), and big petrol stations along major routes like the Garden Route and Panorama Route to Kruger National Park.
Durban is a modern city and cash is readily available from ATMs.
Waitrons in restaurants in South Africa are not paid very well and they depend on tips for the bulk of their earnings. When eating out at restaurants, like the rest of South Africa, the baseline tip is 10%, but excellent service should be rewarded.
Carry some low denominations for toll roads, as well as a good stash of R5 and R2 coins for car parking guards and petrol attendants. Good petrol attendants will not only pump your fuel, but also check your oil and water, and wash your windshield.
Durbanites are famously outgoing, welcoming, and friendly. The city is multicultural and layered and tolerance is enshrined in the constitution of South Africa.
In Durban, good humour and a smile go a long way.
Before taking pictures of people, it is a common courtesy to get permission first, but generally, this should not be an issue in South Africa.
South Africans love to chat and curiosity and openness will reap rewards.
Many travellers choose to do self-drive safaris between Johannesburg and Durban in South Africa. While travelling between cities, roads like the N3 and N2 are excellent, though recently the N3 especially, has been experiencing a large volume of trucks transporting goods between Durban and Johannesburg.
Traffic police often do roadside checks so make sure you have a valid driver's license and that the car is licensed too. Stick to the speed limit as police often set up speed cameras, and wait for double lanes to overtake trucks.
When driving in Durban, watch out for minibus taxis that are erratic and have their own set of rules. Deep breaths will help you stay calm and safe.
Crime is always more of a problem in more populated areas. By being street-smart and following a few simple rules, there is no reason to let crime ruin your visit to South Africa. Chat with locals to get a sense of the situation in your area and listen to advice from staff at your chosen accommodation.
Much of South Africa’s crime occurs in specific areas and will not affect your South African holiday experience. If you are unfortunate enough to be a victim of a crime, stay calm, hand over your belongings, and report the incident to the police as quickly as possible.
Mild weather and lots of sun in Durban mean cool and casual clothing is the norm. Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are important, and comfortable clothes for driving if you are planning to drive to Eswatini and Kruger National Park.
Unless you are an avid hiker and planning to do some multi-day hikes in the Drakensberg, a good pair of sneakers or running shoes will do the trick. I like to have a pair of slip-slops that are cool comfortable, and easy to take off on the beach. Don’t forget your swimsuit! If you plan to eat out at fancy restaurants, smart casual will be more than adequate as Durban is a very relaxed place.
If you are doing a self-drive safari to Hluhluwe, Isimangaliso, or Kruger, make sure you are comfortable. For guided game drives and safari walks, long-sleeved shirts and trousers are a must to keep the bugs at bay and avoid bright clothing, white and black. Neutral khakis, and earthy tones are the least conspicuous and travel the best.
Finally, Durban has some excellent malls and shops and if you do forget anything, you can always buy it here.
Always travel with patience, a sense of humour, and a willingness to learn.
In addition to electronic copies of your passport, and other travel documents like itineraries and booking receipts, it is good practice to keep a photocopy of documents in your suitcase in case of an emergency.
Cash is readily available in cities and small towns as well as in petrol stations. It is a good idea to have a substantial collection of R2 and R5 coins that you can use for tips for car parking guards, and petrol attendants.
Do not drink water directly from rivers and streams to avoid waterborne diseases.
Though bottled water is readily available throughout the city, travelling with your own water bottle that you can top up at hotels will not only limit your use of single-use plastic bottles but save you a lot of money too.
Travel with a portable power bank, and back up your photos whenever possible to avoid the loss of any cherished memories.
Be careful, but do not be afraid. Connecting with humans from other cultures is one of the most rewarding things about travel.
Always get travel insurance, and stay hydrated.
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Modern-day Durban city dates back to 1824 when the first group of British settlers landed on the coast and established the trading port. However, communities of hunter-gatherers are believed to have lived in the area since 100,000 BC, gradually being replaced, integrated or killed by tribes of Bantu farmers and pastoralists that migrated south from northern areas.
In June 1835, British settlers decided to make Durban a capital, naming it "d'Urban" after Sir Benjamin d'Urban, the then-governor of the Cape Colony. In 1838 the Afrikaner Voortrekkers established the Republic of Natalia, but by 1842 the British attacked and seized the city. The Afrikaner settlers gave in to military pressure, accepting British annexation in 1844 after conflict with local Zulus led them to evacuate the city.
In the 1860’s the British government implemented a system of indentured labour imported from India. In exchange for passage and accommodation, Indian Labourers signed contracts for up to 5 years and worked on railway lines and the sugar plantations. Today, South African citizens of Indian descent make up the largest population of Indians outside of India.
Durban is the city where Mahatma Gandhi began his political career, playing an important role in the struggle for independence in India.
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Wherever your dream South African safari destination is - Durban, Cape Town, Garden Route, Kruger, Sabi Sands or beyond - talk to one of our African travel experts to start planning your safari in Africa today.
Use the Google map to explore Durban.