Durban is known for its tropical weather, warm waters and golden beaches. It is situated on the east coast of South Africa and is divided into the South Coast and the Dolphin Coast/ North Coast.
What you need to know
Language: South Africa has 11 official languages, but you’ll mostly hear South Africans speak English, Afrikaans and Xhosa.
Currency: The currency in South Africa is called Rand (R)
15USD will get you 1 Rand
17 EUR will get you 1 Rand
Credit Cards and ATMS: Being one of the major cities in South Africa, most restaurants and shops have card facilities. ATM’s are also available at most gas stations and shopping malls.
When to visit? With Durban having tropical weather, you can visit it all year round. During the summer months (December to February) it can get extremely hot, while winter months (June to August) has hot days with chilly nights. The December months are also its busiest time, and everyone flock to the beach to escape the humidity.
Getting around
There are two ways of getting around in Durban:
Rent a car: There is so much to do in KZN and so many places to see that’s pretty spread out. If you plan on doing a lot of exploring (especially different regions), I would highly recommend you rent a car.
Uber: If you are not comfortable with driving around yourself, then Uber is a great option. However it can get a bit pricey.
Where to stay?
Budget
Chaka’s Cove – These self-catering apartments have some great views overlooking the ocean and the Chaka’s Cove Tidal Pool. There is a very short walk to the beach and the best restaurant in the area (Salt Cafè) is within walking distance.
Location – Shaka’s Rock
Price: $
Pebble Beach – This self-catering apartments are located next to Chaka’s Cove and is located on a cliff overlooking the ocean. It is a short 2 minute walk to the beach and has a great swimming pool overlooking the ocean.
Location – Shaka’s Rock
Price – $
La Montagne – A short 2 minute walk to Compensation Beach and it has a great swimming pool and all rooms with ocean views. There is a Palm Terrace restaurant that offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. There is also a bar alongside the pool.
Location – Ballito
Price – $
Salt Rock Hotel and Beach Resort – Salt Rock Hotel is a 1 minute walk from the beach and is located along the Dolphin coast. There is a large swimming pool and the restaurant has a view of the Indian Ocean.
Located – Salt Rock
Price – $
Luxury
The Oyster Box – This hotel does not need an introduction. It overlooks the Umhlanga Lighthouse and Indian Ocean and there are two outdoor pools to lounge at. The famous hotel is a 5-star hotel and the restaurant here also overlooks the Ocean.
Location – Umhlanga
Price – $$
The Seaglass – With just a 12 minute walk to the beach, this luxury Bed and Breakfast has the best panoramic views. There is also a 25m outdoor pool.
Location – Ballito
Price – $$
PIN THIS GUIDE!
