Looking for things to do in Durban that won’t cost you an arm or a leg? Well, look no further as we have got you covered.
We want to make your experience unforgettable as a local or a visitor, so, we’ve compiled five things or activities to do in Durban for under R100.
Durban is really ‘The Warmest Place to Be’. You can visit historical sites around the City, stroll along the Durban Promenade, or take in the magnificence of the Moses Mabhida Stadium. We have included some things for nature lovers, sightseers, and animal lovers.
1. Durban Ricksha Bus Tour
We kick off this list with the Durban Ricksha Bus Tour. The double-decker bus will take you on a three-hour tour of Durban while you absorb the sites around the City, including the Victoria Street Market, Francis Farewell Square, the beachfront, Wilson’s Wharf, and the Cube viewpoint.
The view from the upper deck is the best way to see Durban as never before. Due to the high demand, Durban Tourism is increasing the frequency of tours to accommodate visitors and residents and offers tours from 09:00 to 12:00; 13:00 to 16:00, and 16:30 to 18:30.
For bookings, contact 031 322 4209 or purchase your ticket at the North Beach Tourism office on Marine Parade (North Beach).
Ricksha bus tours fees:
Adults (18 years and above): R100
Children (4–17 years): R51
South African pensioners (60 years and above): R51
2. Mini Town
If bus tours aren’t really your thing, then perhaps a visit to Durban, in miniature form, is more your cup of tea. Established in January 1969, Mini Town is Durban built to a scale of 1:24 of the actual size of the replica building. While it is not a direct replica of the city, there are a number of buildings and landmarks locals may be familiar with, including City Hall (pictured below) and the old airport.
The model buildings in Mini Town have been made with various materials, including perspex and timber.
You can find Mini Town on 114 Snell Parade or visit their website for more information. They are open from Monday to Sunday, from 09:30 to 16:30.
Mini Town fees:
Adults/Pensioners: R40
Children (9 to 13): R30
3. uShaka Marine World’s Dangerous Creatures
For lizard, frog and snake lovers, Dangerous Creatures at uShaka Marine World is the place to be. The venue is an interactive and educational reptile park which includes a host of species, including the newest rescue, the two-headed southern brown egg-eater, Jean-Claude.
The park falls under the care of the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (Saambr) and they are situated on 1 King Shaka Avenue (at uShaka Marine World).
You can find out the list of reptiles they look after via their website, and they are open from 10:00 to 16:30.
Dangerous Creatures fees:
Adults and children: R64
4. Umgeni River Bird Park
Home to 800 birds from 200 species, the Umgeni River Bird Park is another must for animal lovers. The park, spanning 3.5 hectares on Riverside Road, also offers bird shows with an educational aspect.
The park is only a few minutes away from the City Centre and also has a cafe where visitors can relax and enjoy a drink and a snack.
For more information, contact the park on 031 322 5750.
Umgeni River Bird Park fees:
Adults: R90
Children: R46
Pensioners: R39
5. Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve
Home to a variety of species of crabs, mudskippers and birds, the 76-hectare Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve offers a tranquil breakaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The reserve has the largest population of mangrove trees in the Durban area and is a vital nursery area for many species of fish. Mangroves are unique and just as important as coral reefs and tropical rainforests.
The reserve is open to the public on the third Saturday of every month, and the day includes a guided bird walk for nature lovers.
Entry is free, and visitors can opt for a walk on their own on the open mornings, or take a guided tour with the North Durban Honorary officers who look after the reserve.