Introduction
The third largest city in South Africa, Durban is a great place to go if you want something a little out of the ordinary. Durban is heavily influenced by Indian culture, as a lot of people moved here from India in the 19th century. Traditional Zulu and English culture also have a major influence on the city, as evident in its architecture. What makes the coastal city stand out is the Golden Mile, a stretch of beachfront which includes a famous promenade and a number of other tourist attractions along the way. The weather here is hot enough to make a stroll along the Golden Mile worthwhile; and the rest of Durban too, as even in winter, temperatures can reach the 20°C mark.
Ideal car
Family car
In Durban, fuel is cheaper than in Europe. Also, away from the centre, the roads are a little more open, so having a larger vehicle will make it easier for getting around.
Driving in Durban
Road Driving Side: L
Urban Speed Limit: 35mph
Rural Speed Limit: 60mph
Motorway Speed Limit: 75mph
Driving in Durban
Road Driving Side
Urban Speed Limit
Rural Speed Limit
Motorway Speed Limit
Important things to note
You might want to update your car or phone’s GPS, as many of the street names in Durban have changed in light of the 2010 World Cup.
Traffic in Durban can be intense during the morning and evening rush hour. If you avoid driving at those times, you should be fine.
The main Tourist Office in Durban is on 160 Monty Naicker Road. It’s usually open during the daytime on weekdays and Saturdays.
Ideal car: Family car
In Durban, fuel is cheaper than in Europe. Also, away from the centre, the roads are a little more open, so having a larger vehicle will make it easier for getting around.
Highlights & Hotspots
Along the Golden Mile, uShaka Marine World on 1 Bell Street is home to a huge aquarium and a number of rides in the on-site Waterworld. There are regular shows featuring dolphins and whales as well as tours of the aquarium.
Durban Botanical Gardens is one of the best and most peaceful places to visit here. What makes these Gardens special is that, on Saturdays, you can come and see traditional weddings from the myriad of cultures that exist in Durban.
Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World, also on the Golden Mile, is a great place to spend an evening. Whether you want to play the slots, see a show or just kick back while enjoying a three-course-meal, this is the place for you.
The Moses Mabhida Stadium, a former FIFA World Cup football venue, is famous for one thing – its’ arch. Standing at 344ft, the arch was once used as the world’s largest swing. Today, you can take a funicular ride along the arch for a small fee.
Airport Information
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Built in 2010 to replace the old Durban Airport, King Shaka International Airport is a modern facility with two terminals – one for passengers and the other for cargo. The passenger terminal has 34 parking bays for aircraft and 72 check-in counters.
Flights come here from all over Africa, Europe and Asia. Getting to and from the airport by car is pretty easy – it’s accessible from the N2 freeway and R102 road. Though be aware that you need to pay a toll to go onto the N2.