Durban is preparing for the festive season. As part of its endeavours the eThekwini Municipality is hoping to attract tourists to the city this summer to generate income. Businesses are ready to attract those looking to visit our area of the world due to its warmer climate. The beaches, water themed parks, restaurants, markets, and fun rides await the approach of tourists and the holiday money they bring. Hotels, beds and breakfasts, and inns are going to be packed. Durban is a popular destination along the east coast due to its water front, known as the Golden Mile. These are the main attractions as situated from uShaka Marine world to the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Take a tour of eThekwini on the Rickshaw Bus.
If finding balance on a segway is not your kind of thing, then you can always take in Durban by climbing onboard the open-roof Durban Ricksha Bus for a guided tour of the city. From the beachfront, you travel to uShaka, get a view of Emmanuel Cathedral, the Victoria Street Market, Durban City Hall, Florida Road, Moses Mabhida Stadium and Blue Lagoon, among other stops before returning to the beachfront at a cost of R100 and R51 for children 17 years old and below. Pensioners, aged 60 and above, also qualify for the discount, paying R51. There are two tours per day: 09:00 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 16:00. Children under five years old get free entry. Bookings and departures are from the Durban Tourism North Beach Office at No 1 KE Masinga, Bay of Plenty, North Beach.
The rickshaw bus is known for covering a wide expanse of all the holiday hotspots in the city. Tourists if armed with first hand knowledge of their destination and a tour guide will have wasted no time in finding the places where they want to go. Although Durban can be especially dangerous come the holidays of the ‘festive season’. Crime is a huge risk when touring the city even with the police patrolling the major hotspots. In coming tourists should be on high alert for any sign of unwanted company. The rickshaw bus is one of the safe ways to travel around the city’s unseemly parts. None the less Durban has the best attractions this side of South Africa and you also take an Uber from one destination to the next. An Uber is similar to a yellow taxi. However, a double decker bus is a beautiful way to get a good eye view of the city.
Slide down Africa’s highest slide at Wet ‘n Wild.
Located towards the south of the Golden Mile, the hard-to-miss uShaka Marine World features Africa’s highest slide in the Wet ‘n Wild, dolphin shows and a one-of-a-kind aquarium. Thrill-seekers can have their fun sliding down the steep slide while those brave enough can swim with sharks or zip line along the park. For a more tame experience, you can immerse yourself into the deep blue sea by visiting the uShaka Shipwreck Aquarium or by taking in the dolphin show. Also on offer are Dangerous Creatures, Kids World and various shops and restaurants. For more information, contact 031 328 8000 or email: mkt@ushakamarineworld.co.za for park rates and opening times.
uShaka has possibly seen better popularity in terms of tourism since the covid Pandemic. A superb attraction for tourists travelling with their families. It can still offer much to the young and adventurous. Tourists and locals alike will enjoy an experience that not only includes water slides but also be enlightened concerning the sea life found across the east coast region. The water life comes in many forms here with the sharks, dolphins, seals and other forms of underwater life. The children will especially enjoy swimming on the wet slides and for the more relaxed adults there is the lazy river. uShaka walk offers all forms of commercial interests and you can enjoy the Marine World’s beach area and view of the sea.
Distance from Durban: 1.5 hours
The Midlands Meander is a collection of picturesque routes dotted with charming villages, boutique shops, and art galleries and makes for a perfect day trip from Durban. Visit local craft studios, savour artisanal cheeses and chocolates, and relax at cozy cafes. The area is also home to outdoor activities like hiking, horse riding, and ziplining.
Distance from Durban: 2.5–3 hours
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi is renowned for its conservation efforts, particularly for protecting the white rhino. Embark on a guided safari or self-drive to spot lions, elephants, rhinos, and more. The rolling hills and riverine landscapes make for a stunning backdrop to your wildlife adventure.
Travelling in rural KwaZulu Natal is a rare treat. The landscape and scenery are breath taking and a treasured memory. A trip across KZN resonates with natural beauty and cultural delight. Take some time off to savour local cuisines and enjoy the various nature activities such as hiking or even canoeing. Be weary of con-artists or hawkers and travel with a competent guide. If you are unable to find one have your agency recommend one.
Gazing at South Africa’s natural wild life is an extraordinary opportunity to witness herds of rhinos and elephants and prides of lions in their natural habitat. It will prove to be a breath-taking experience. The sae and coast are beautiful but so is the interior. Be sure to stop by in Durban and other parts of KwaZulu-Natal.
Article written by:
Yacoob Cassim
Journalist at Radio Al Ansaar
