About Durban City Center
Durban is a well-known coastal city on the eastern shores of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. Durban is particularly popular amongst tourists for its warm water, balmy summers, cultural value and proximity to other exciting destinations. It combines its natural beauty with a cosmopolitan city centre to ensure that there is plenty to see and do for all members of the family. The city comes alive after dark with fantastic clubs, pubs, bars and restaurants. It is also a bustling commercial centre that serves as an important business destination.
History
The nearby Drakensberg Mountain Range’s multitude of caves are full of ancient rock art left by the San that once occupied this area some 40 000 to 100 000 years ago. This community lived in KwaZulu Natal until they were eventually forced out or killed by migrating Bantus and invading Europeans.
Then, in 1824, Lieutenant Farewell’s British troops arrived in the area now known as Durban and settled there. Henry Fynn was part of this initiative and became friends with King Shaka Zulu, who was a tribal victor in the area and had been injured in battle. Zulu gave some land to Fynn as a token of his gratitude for assistance during his time of injury.
The Governor of the Cape Colony, from where these soldiers came, was called Sir Benjamin d’Urban. When Farewell, Fynn and co began to establish their settlements, they decided to name the area after Governor d’Urban.
Accessibility / Transport
Durban’s international airport is just over 20km from the city centre and its multitude of hotels, B&B’s and guesthouses along with other tourist attractions and family activities.
Many sights and sounds are within close proximity from one another, so tourists are invited to don comfortable walking shoes and explore the city on foot, or with the aid of the local rickshaw men.
Hired cars are widely available, as are cabs / taxis and tour busses. Tourists to South Africa are advised not to take minibus taxis, particularly if they are not au fait with the local customs or languages.
Attractions
Durban offers a plethora of things to see and do, catering to visitors of all calibres and preferences. uShaka Marine World is a great activity for adults and children alike as they delight in the shows, seal tanks, aquarium and feeding of the aquatic animals.
The International Convention Centre is modern, comfortable and accessible, ensuring that corporate travellers are treated to efficient and luxurious services during their stay in Durban.
Markets bursting with local arts, crafts and flavours keep visitors entranced by what Durban has to offer. The many restaurants range from family eateries to world-class venues and cuisine.
Durban is the ideal destination for water sports thanks to its warm waters and gorgeous weather. Sailing, surfing, SCUBA diving, snorkelling, swimming, or just jumping in the waves in the perfect way to spend a balmy day in KwaZulu Natal.
In addition to the many beaches, game parks and gardens, visitors are urged to visit Minitown, Bridgevale Japanese Gardens, Francis Farewell Square, the Durban Art Gallery and the Durban Natural Science Museum.
Climate
Durban enjoys hot, humid summers and temperate winters. Summer lasts from December to February, but hot days are generally enjoyed for most of the year. Summer highs reach 30 degrees Celsius or more and cool down to about 20 degrees in the evenings, with afternoon thundershowers. Winter lows do not normally drop lower than 10 degrees Celsius, and days are usually still warm enough for a refreshing swim. Winter is from June to August and is a beautiful time of year. Many popular tourist attractions and accommodation suppliers lower their prices during this time to encourage visitors.
