8 family friendly attractions in Durban
Looking for something to do with the kids
during the school holidays? Try visiting one of these gems.
1. UShaka Marine World
No visit to Durban would be complete without spending a day at UShaka Marine World. A treat for the entire family, check out the largest aquarium in the Southern Hemisphere, dolphin, seals and penguins. Have some fun at the slides, super tubes and splash pools, or take a diving adventure. There’s plenty to do for kids and adults alike. Expect a day of fun and excitement.
Address: 1 King Shaka Avenue, Durban
2. Golden Mile
Take a walking tour of the Durban beachfront from the Golden Mile. The promenade has high-rise hotels, plenty of eateries, shops, restaurants and entertainment facilities for the kids. Hire a bike and cycle the mile or stop off at a bench with an ice cream and watch the surfers have fun on the water. There’s plenty to see on the Mile and you’ll be surrounded by other walkers, joggers, skateboarders and Segway riders. A great spot to visit on the Golden Mile is Mini Town - a miniature replica of Durban with a rail network, airport, and harbour scene.
Address: Beach Walk, Durban Central, Durban
3. Botanical Gardens
Northwest of the city centre you'll find the oldest surviving botanic garden in Africa. Take a stroll through beautiful and interesting plants like cycads, orchids, bromeliads and palms. A bonus is the rich birdlife found in the park with at least 50 different species of birds. The Botanical Gardens should be on any visitor’s must-see list in this city.
Address: 70 John Zikhali Rd, Durban
4. Umgeni River Bird Park
The Umgeni River Bird Park boasts more than 200 species of birds! Some of which are only found at this bird park in Africa. Take a walk on the various paths through green landscapes and crashing waterfalls while catching a glimpse of species from Southeast Asia and Australia including lories and aras, as well as indigenous birds.
Don't miss the bird show where you can learn more about exotic species.
Address: 490 Riverside Road, Durban North
5. The Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple (Hare Krishna Temple)
Put aside a few hours to visit the beautiful Hare Krishna Temple in Westcliffe. Take in the beautiful and distinct exterior architecture featuring gold-tipped domes and gilded statues, and the lavish interior of marble tiles, gold-tinted windows and crystal chandeliers. The lotus-shaped garden is a feast for the eyes and should not be missed. While you’re visiting, make sure to try out the well-known Indian vegetarian restaurant, Govinda's for a delicious meal and freshly squeezed juice.
Address: 50 Bhaktivendanta Swami Cir, Westcliff, Durban
6. Valley of a Thousand Hills
The unbelievably beautiful and scenic Valley of a Thousand Hills is a breath-taking addition to any Durban visitor itinerary.
Think beautiful rolling hills as far as the eye can see, majestic views from hilltops abound, traditional villages scattered throughout and an old road that will lead you to the edge of the valley for breath-taking views.
7. Port Natal Maritime Museum
Pay the Durban Harbour a visit and pop in at the Port Natal Maritime Museum and learn about historical sea voyages and how maritime culture has influenced Durban. It’s a great educational excursion for adults and kids alike and the vessels like the steam tug JR More, the minesweeper SAS Durban and the Ulundi and NCS Challenger are an exciting highlight.
Address: Bay end of Samora Machel Street, next to BAT centre. Durban
Web: https://durbanhistorymuseums.org.za/port-natal-maritime-museum/
8. Umgeni Steam Train
Take a trip back in time and treat the family to an old steam train ride. The train runs on weekends and the route is from Kloof Station through the Valley of 1000 hills to Inchanga and back. Expect the journey to last about 3 hours and you get to spend some time at a delightful craft and food market at Inchanga before returning home.
To find out more information about Durban, visit http://visitdurban.travel/