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Durban is a tropical paradise located on the East Coast of South Africa roughly 365 miles Southeast of Johannesburg. Durban is the most popular destination for domestic tourism and is a great place to go for young student travelers. Additionally, Durban is one of the largest cities in South Africa which allow for cheap student flights available for a vacation that will be worth it. Durban is home to the Golden Mile which is a developed tourist destination located on over a mile worth of Golden Beaches. This city offers not just a beach going vacation but plenty of history and art to make it a complete vacation.

Durban Pictures

Things to do in Durban

Since Durban is home to the Golden Mile, it is a must to take at least a day, maybe two to enjoy the warm sunny beaches and go for a surf, snorkel or even scuba dive off the coast. In addition to the beach and watersport activities, there’s the uShaka Marine World which is a massive aquarium and home to more than eight different rides in Waterworld. A great spot to see some of Africa’s sea life as well as enjoy the thrill of some of their water rides. Check out the Fitzsimons Snake Park as well or the Durban A1 Grand Prix race travel too. For a more of a cultural experience, take a historical tour of Durban’s Indian population and the Mahatma Ghandi Settlement or the old Sugar Mill which was known as South Africa’s “white gold”.

Nightlife in Durban

By far the most popular place to go out in Durban is Joe Kools located right along the Golden Mile, JKools is a great pub with pool tables and roof top seating and is always busy with the sundowners. Surprisingly enough, Sunday Nights at Joe Kools is the most popular night especially for the locals. If you want a night full of dancing, then a visit to 330 is the club to be at. It is the most well known dancing club in all of Durban and you will have so much fun that it will be daylight by the time you leave. Lastly, an always popular spot no matter where you are in South Africa is Tiger Tiger. Tiger Tiger is always rocking on Friday and Saturday nights and plays a mix of 80s and 90s music.

Dining in Durban

Durban is host to one of the largest Indian populations outside of India itself and thus a stop for some local curry and Indian cuisine is necessary for any trip to Durban. A great place to have some quality Indian cuisine is the Vintage Restaurant on Windermere Road. For the best view of Durban, check out the Roma Revolving Restaurant at the top of the John Ross House on the Esplanade for some Italian food. For a variety of international food, check out Wilson’s Wharf and you are bound to find something that you like. Lastly, if you want some real South African food, have some “Biltong”, it is South Africa’ version of a beef jerky and is always good for a quick snack or bite to eat.

Shopping in Durban

There’s no doubt that when it comes to shopping in Durban, the Gateway Mall is the place to be. The Gateway Mall is the largest mall in the Southern Hemisphere. The Essenwood Craft market is a great place to buy some African Curios, and don’t forget to barter and negotiate hard while there. Durban is located in Kwazula-Natal so check out the Zulu beadwork for some authentic crafts.

Durban Travel Tips

• Dress down to blend in the people in Durban to avoid sticking out like a tourist.
• Wear some SPF, the sun is hot and the sun’s intensity is particularly strong in Durban.
• Check out the beautiful beaches!