Are you passing through KwaZulu-Natal this month and have only one day to delight in Durban’s offerings? Then consider this your guide.
Morning: food, fun, flora
Let your foodie flag fly while in Durban! Take your coffee outdoors and watch a sunrise from the whalebone pier at Umhlanga's promenade – an Insta-worthy location for sure. If you’re in need of more caffeine after that, mellow in the aroma of freshly brewed coffee at Colombo Coffee or Noble Coffee, or grab brunch at Surf Riders Food Shack. The whimsical garden of Antique Cafe is also worth exploring.
If you’ve got the time, travel to Pietermaritzburg and eat giant gourmet pancakes at the Coffeeberry Cafe (its pancakes are something to behold – there’s an entire page on the menu dedicated to savoury and sweet pancake goodness. Yes, please!).
If you’re looking for a quiet meander after brunch, spend some time taking in Durban’s lush and green spaces. Set out your blanket in the Durban Botanic Gardens, Japanese Gardens or the Makaranga Botanical Garden. Each has its own charm and grandeur.
Afternoon: swims, stadiums, sandcastles
When in Durban, a dip in the Indian Ocean is a must. The city is known for its warm waters, sandy beaches and fantastic weather. Don your costume and enjoy a float or surf in South Africa’s warmest waters. Visit the Umhlanga main beach, Dairy Beach or South Beach.
The Durban beachfront promenade recently got an extension and is now the longest uninterrupted promenade in sub-Saharan Africa. Walk it, run it, or glide on a Segway. Make sure to look out for unique and large sandcastles that usually dot the shoreline!
While exploring the promenade, try spotting Moses Mabhida Stadium’s iconic “arch of triumph”. The stadium was built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, which saw just over 300 000 tourists visit South Africa. Feeling brave? Try the stadium’s Big Rush Big Swing free-fall swing, which dangles the bravest from a height of 80m! You’ll have a unique view of the stadium as you swing down in your harness!
In the vicinity of the stadium and the beachfront are an array of restaurants, shops and stalls.
Evening: dinner, drinks and dancing
Discover the glorious busyness of the Oyster Box hotel’s kitchen by booking a table at the Chef’s Table. Executive chef Kevin Joseph leads the team at the Oyster Box, and guests are wined and dined with a five-course meal – there are three menus to choose from.
After dinner, dance the calories away on one of the five dance floors of Origin Nightclub. Or show off your shimmy at Tiger Tiger as the sun sets on your adventure in Durban.