20 things to do in Durban - 2
Mr Price Pro
Formerly known as the Gunston 500, this annual surf competition is a meeting place for professional surfers from all over the world. If that’s your kind of scene head on over. The ASP world circuit event has a number of judged heats, reducing the 70 or so competitors to the final of four surfers competing. If you’re a surfer you definitely want a chance at winning the prize money of more than one million rand! Other events, held at the same time, include international volleyball, international Jet Ski and the ‘ocean warrior’ iron man competition.
Burman Bush Nature Reserve
This small park of around 120 acres enjoys interesting coastal vegetation and is crossed by three well marked trails. There is a visitors’ centre and interesting map which will help explain the special characteristics of the reserve and the preservation work it has been, and still is, carrying out. An ideal way to spend the day or half day as it is within easy reach of the city centre, you will find picnic spots all around the park and the parking area is secure. No admission charged.
Beer Route
A visit to the brew route includes demonstrations of the art of beer making, beer tasting and the opportunity to purchase gift packs of the beer produced by the breweries of the Zulu Kingdom. The route also provides the tourist with the opportunity to ‘get to know’ the diverse tourism attractions of this province. A must-do for any beer lover!
Mini Town
This is an exact replica town of Durban, believe it or not. Situated on Durban’s Golden Mile it has become a tourist attraction of tourist attractions. With exact replicas of Durban’s best known buildings and tourist attractions scaled down to 1/24 of their size. It really is a little city within a city. Fun to have a look at so don’t miss it.
Botanic Gardens
Regarded by many as some of South Africa’s most beautiful city parklands, the gardens provide a year round display of bold and contrasting colours surrounding the main walk from the tea garden to the entrance. The first seeds were laid in 1850 by the original curator Mr Mark Johnson McKen. An extensive collection of exotic birds, tropical fish, small animals and reptiles are housed in a pleasing setting. Have a look at the Earnest Thorpe Orchid House, Herb Garden, Sunken Garden or even the Garden for the Blind. No admission is charged, except when concerts are held. This takes place throughout the year and concert-goers are welcome to take along picnic baskets. Spacious lawn areas are ideal of picnics or a lazy siesta or reading.
The Valley of a Thousand Hills
The Valley of a Thousand hills can be found on the western outskirts directly outside of Durban. This stretch of rural country is home to many Zulus who reside next to small towns and the garden suburbs of Durban. The parallel road to the main highway N3 makes a lovely drive with beautiful views over dams and villages.
Fitz Simons Snake Park
Home to South African and exotic species, this park houses more than half of South Africa’s 157 different snake species as well as lizards, crocodiles and tortoises. It is also the key producer of snake-bite serum in South Africa. Go there to watch snake feedings and venomous snake demonstrations. Although my younger sister enjoyed holding a snake around her neck, I remember my mother suddenly falling to the floor as she fainted. It might be a good way of overcoming your fear of snakes though!
The Drakensberg
The Drakensberg mountain range is about two hours drive from Durban and goes above 3500 metres. Mountain lovers are drawn in by the mountain walks, well-preserved valleys and the adventurous Sani Pass. If you visit in the winter months of June or July you may even witness snow – while people still swim in the sea!
Gateway Shopping Centre
Situated in Umhlanga Rocks, Gateway is one of the largest shopping centres for the metro Durban. I personally got lost! But not a second was spent bored or concerned – there was just too much to do and see. This shopping complex, built in sugar cane land, offers shopping (any girl’s dream!), a climbing tower (I had to go back the next day for this), an IMAX theatre, a surfing venue and so many restaurants and cafes it really isn’t easy to choose. After getting lost I was more interested in not being found so that I wouldn’t have to leave!
Umgeni River Bird Park
Known for its remarkable breeding program, the Umgeni River Bird Park is a pleasant park home to many indigenous and foreign birds. They have various shows that even let you interact with the birds.
Durban Cathedral
Along Grey Street, opposite the Indian Market, Durban’s Roman Catholic Cathedral is right alongside the city’s main mosque, Grey Street Mosque. This shows yet another example of how cosmopolitan the city is. Again, you do not need to be religious to visit the Cathedral, but it truly is an inspiring site.
Durban Nightlife
Museums and statues may sound very boring to some, but although very educational and interesting to see, for those who simply prefer sleeping through the day, there is always Durban nightlife. Durban has an active mix of nightlife and caters for all. Nightlife can mean a romantic setting at a classy restaurant, dancing away at a trendy nightclub, watching theatre or just having a beer at a local pub. With Durban being as eclectic as it is, the types of clubs and pubs are diverse. Two of my favourites were Tilt, and 330, a club that garners rave reviews from all who visit for its expertly mixed music. Top international DJs have hosted there, giving the club international status and fame, and guaranteeing party-goers a frenetic, action-packed night with solid beats and beautiful people. I was clever enough to arrive in stilettos but by 4am was in the car trading those for my sneakers, which kept me going for another 4-5 hours. Not for the faint hearted!
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