Durban is a city that resonates authenticity, from British colonial architecture to Zulu and Indian culture . Whether you’re in Durban for a family vacation or looking to experience the highlights of this vibrant city, I’ve crafted this “Durban in 3 Days” itinerary for you.
I am a proud Durban’ite and love showing off the city to visitors far and wide, so, let’s dive into my recommended plan, featuring the best of Durban’s culture, history, and adventure!
Quick Links
- Day 1 – City Tour
- Day 2 – Zulu Cultural Tour
- Day 3 – Adventure Tours
- List of tours mentioned
- Contact Form
Day 1: Discover Durban – The Ultimate City Tour
Morning: Explore the Heart of Durban
Start your journey with our popular Durban City Tour, a comprehensive 6-hour adventure that takes you to the city’s iconic landmarks. You will have an opportunity to visit the bustling Victoria Street Market, where you can wander through vibrant stalls filled with spices, African crafts, and local delicacies. It’s a feast for the senses and a great place to pick up unique souvenirs.
From there, we move on to the Durban Botanic Gardens, Africa’s oldest surviving botanical gardens. Enjoy a tour of the gardens with specialised guide and learn more about the leafy residents of Durban, including the world’s “loneliest tree”!
Afternoon: A Stroll Through History
Next, we’ll head to the historic city centre of Durban where Victorian era architecture is surrounded by art-deco styled buildings. You’ll get to know more about the city that gave the world the “bunny chow” which you would have enjoyed at lunch.
You also get to tour the Golden Mile that runs along the Indian Ocean and is the longest uninterrupted promenade in Africa. Learn more about the “Greatest Shoal on Earth”, the early days of marine conservation and so much more.
Day 2: Dive Into Zulu Culture
Morning: Zulu Cultural Tour
On day two, explore the rich history and traditions of the Zulu people with our iSithumba Zulu Cultural Tour. We’ll take you just outside the city to a traditional, rural Zulu village, where you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality.
You’ll get a tour of the village by a local guide who lives in iSithumba and learn more about the challenges of traditional Zulu people in the contemporary South Africa. Discover the “spaza shops”, the Sangoma and importance of Nguni cattle even today.
Afternoon: Zulu Dance and Crafts
After lunch at a popular local restaurant, you’ll get to enjoy and afternoon at PheZulu Safari Park where you’ll get treated to a 30 minute Zulu dance depicting the traditional courtship of the Zulu people followed by a tour of a model Zulu village.
Finally it’s time for a tour of the reptile and crocodile park where you’ll discover the rich biodiversity that can still be found in and around Durban today.
Day 3: Choose Your Adventure
Your final day in Durban is all about adventure! Depending on your interests, we’ve got a few thrilling options to choose from:
Option 1: Swim with Sharks
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, join our Shark Cage Diving Experience along the South Coast. You’ll get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Experienced guides will ensure your safety as you descend into the waters for an unforgettable experience.
Option 2: Hike in the Drakensberg
If you prefer to stay on land, a day trip to the Bushmen Paintings in the Drakensberg Mountains is perfect for nature lovers. The breathtaking landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and tranquil valleys make it a hiker’s paradise.
Option 3: Head into Lesotho
For those looking to explore beyond South Africa’s borders, consider our Sani Pass into Lesotho Day Tour. This small mountain kingdom, known as the “Kingdom in the Sky,” is just a few hours’ drive from Durban. You’ll experience the unique Basotho culture, visit a traditional village, and take in the stunning high-altitude landscapes that make Lesotho so special.
Option 4: Explore Rorkes Drift Battlefield
Walk the battlefields of Rorkes Drift, iSandlwana or Spionkop on our Rorkes Drift battlefield tour from Durban. This historic battle during the Anglo Zulu War campaign changed the fortunes of not only the soon to be formed republic, but influenced the course of the French people and British alike.
Durban in 3 Days: List of tours Mentioned
To make things easier, here is a list of the tours mentioned in this “Durban in 3 days” suggested itinerary. Of course if there is some other tours you would rather do, that’s ok! We are more than happy to accommodate you and your budget.
- Durban City Tour
- iSithumba Zulu Cultural Tour
- Swim with Sharks
- Sani Pass into Lesotho
- Rorkes Drift Day Tour
Book Your Durban Adventure Today!
With so much to see and do, my Durban in 3 days is the best itinerary to cover as much of Durban as possible. At Durban Safaris and Tours, we’re here to help you make the most of your time in our beautiful city. Whether you’re interested in culture, history, or adventure, I’ve got the perfect itinerary for you.
Book your tour with me today and get ready to experience the best of Durban!