5 Reasons to Visit Durban this Summer!

Forget Cape Town, there’s a new coastal city on everyone’s radar this summer and while Durbanites have always known Durban is scorching hot (and we’re not just talking about the weather), the rest of the world is finally catching on too! Don’t believe us? Just ask the New York Times – the popular publication featured Durban as number 7 on its list of 52 Places to Go in 2015 (told you so)! And, if you’re still not convinced we’ve teamed up with Accommodation Direct to offer you 5 reasons to visit Durban this summer. Packed with travel tips and hidden gems this travel guide is sure to convince you that Durbs is as cool as they come!

1. It’s a haven for foodies

Love food? Then you’ll LOVE Durban! From modest (but oh-so-legendary) takeaway bites to fine dining restaurants that will take your breath away, there’s something for every taste in Durban. No foodie trip to Durbs is complete without popping into Sunrise Chip ‘N Ranch (also known as Johnny’s Rotis). This spot is an institution in the city and you simply cannot leave without tucking into a legendary triple cheese and chip roti with mutton gravy. While most people tend to get their Johnny’s Rotis fix after a night out on the town (They’re open 24/7 so why not?) there’s no reason you can’t pop in during the day as well.

For a breakfast bite to remember pop into Freedom Café at The Concierge boutique hotel. With a combination of off-beat interiors and a love of everything fresh and green, the cafe is known for offering the best brunch in town. Not sure what to order? You can’t go wrong with the buttermilk pancake stack, a Pampoen koekie, or Freedom Fry breakfast.

If it’s luxury you’re after then check out swanky spot, The Chefs Table. Started by head chef and visionary, Kayla-Ann Osborn and her team, this chic spot encourages you to eat with your eyes first. Expect delights like Greenfield’s Roasted Bonemarrow with slow-braised beef tongue and sweet mustard for mains and chocolate popcorn with mint ice cream for dessert.

2. It’s a gem for adrenalin junkies

If you’re all about travel with a sense adventure then Durban is the place for you. From skate parks to catching a wave or braving an 80m free-fall off a building, there are loads of ways to get your heart racing in this incredible city. A visit to Moses Mabhida Stadium is sure to take your Durban experience to new heights. Take the two-minute SkyCar ride up the stadium arch, before you step onto the platform and take in the unparalleled 360º views of Durban and beyond or Conquer the Arch on the breathtaking Adventure Walk which sees visitors make their way up the 500 steps to reach the top. If that’s extreme enough for you then you can always throw caution to the wind and brave the Big Swing and get your blood pumping with a free fall 80m into the stadium bowl. If you’re more of a water baby then why not head to

If you’re more of a water baby then why not head to Wave House for a day spent conquer the waves? Tear things up on the Flow rider or for something a little tamer have a go on the supertube rides. Another must-visit for both kids and adults alike is the fantastically fun

Another must-visit for both kids and adults alike is the fantastically fun Giba Gorge Mountain Bike Park in Hillcrest. This spot offers an excellent BMX track and a 40km mountain bike trail that slithers through the wooded farmlands overlooking the Umtamvuma River Gorge.

3. There’s loads to keep the kids entertained

Moms and dads will know that any good family holiday destination needs to cater for kids with lots of energy and Durban’s got plenty for the kids to see and do! Pop into uShaka Marine World for a day of fun for the whole family. From the Sea World aquarium to a wide selection of slides and pools at Wet ‘n Wild, there’s no way you’ll be bored at this kid’s haven. If you need a moment to yourself then get the kids out of your hair at uShaka Kids World which offers an incredible play area as well as loads of fun activities and adventures for children. For some old school fun head to

For some old school fun head to Funworld for an afternoon or rides and carnival fun. This spot is affordable and will prove to be a huge hit with the kids! Of course, you can’t go wrong with a simple walk, ride, or skate along

Of course, you can’t go wrong with a simple walk, ride, or skate along The Golden Mile. This is the perfect place to take a stroll with the family while enjoying a soft serve ice cream. Bring the kids bikes and rollerblades along and they’ll be busy for hours!

4. Affordable and unique accommodation

There are plenty of great places to stay in Durban. When planning your trip make sure you check out Accommodation Direct for a long list of great places to stay in Durban. There’s something to suit every budget and holiday style – from luxury to laid-back. The beautiful and oh-so-luxurious Infinity View Boutique Guesthouse is a must for those who like the finer things in life. This unique guesthouse is ideally located in the upmarket Kloof golf course area and caters to discerning travellers with who love being surrounded by creature comforts and more!

If you’re looking for somewhere to connect with nature then Chinderera Eco Lodge is just the place! Every unit at this unique lodge is private and allows you to experience the joys of nature from the comfort of your room. From indoor-outdoor bathrooms and spacious interiors, the Eco-units provide the perfect base from which to explore all the area has to offer.

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For those looking self-catering options, 69 Strand Self-Catering Units is the ideal choice. These 3 self-catering units are fully equipped are offer striking views of the Indian Ocean below.

5. There’s so much natural beauty to take in!

There’s no doubt about it, Durbs is a beautiful part of South Africa and while you might be tempted to stick to urban adventures don’t forget to save some time for Mother Nature! In addition to beautiful beaches (and wonderfuly warm water!), Durban offers a long list of natural wonders for your to explore. If you’re all about the laid-back life then head off to Durban Botanical Gardens for a picnic and an afternoon nap on the lawns. Visit the world’s rarest cycad collection, marvel at the incredible Orchid collection, or take a stroll to palm grove – the options are endless.

And, once you’re done living it up in the gardens why not take a sunset stroll along Umhlanga Pier? The whale bone skeleton structure is no doubt striking and is the ideal spot for sunset selfies.

Outdoorsy types can also make a trip to Mzinyathi Falls – a mere 20-minute drive from Gateway, this popular rock climbing spot is a hidden gem loved by locals. Visit in summer, after heavy rain, to see the falls in all its glory.

This travel guide was brought to you by Accommodation Direct. Visit their website for all your travel accommodation needs. You can search various accommodation options by travel date, price, amount of guests accommodation type and more to find the ideal spot from which to experience the ultimate holiday this summer. For more information and great deals say Hi to Accommodation Direct on Facebook.