A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Durban: The Jewel of the Indian Ocean in South Africa

Introduction

Located on the east coast of South Africa, Durban is a vibrant and multicultural city that offers a unique blend of tourist attractions. Known for its warm climate and golden beaches, Durban is a popular tourist destination for both locals and international visitors.

Durban's Seafront Promenade

The Golden Mile, as it is locally known, is a seafront promenade that stretches along Durban's beach. Here, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from surfing and swimming to cycling and skating. The promenade also hosts a number of restaurants and shops, making it an ideal place to spend the day.

uShaka Marine World

One of Durban's main attractions is uShaka Marine World, a theme park that offers a variety of water attractions, from an aquarium to a water park. Visitors can see a variety of marine life, including sharks, dolphins, and penguins, and enjoy thrilling slides and pools at the Wet 'n Wild water park.

The Moses Mabhida Stadium

The Moses Mabhida Stadium is one of Durban's most iconic structures. Built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the stadium offers stunning views of the city and the ocean. Visitors can ride to the top of the stadium in the SkyCar or, for the more adventurous, bungee jump from the stadium's arch.

Durban Botanic Gardens

The Durban Botanic Gardens, the oldest in Africa, is an oasis of tranquility amidst the bustling city. The garden hosts an impressive collection of plants from around the world, including a notable collection of orchids and bromeliads. It is also a popular spot for picnics and outdoor concerts.

The Tala Game Reserve

A short distance from Durban is the Tala Game Reserve, a wildlife sanctuary that hosts a variety of animals, including rhinos, hippos, giraffes, and a wide variety of birds. Visitors can explore the reserve on a vehicle safari or on foot, and there is accommodation available for those who wish to stay overnight.

The Victoria Street Market

For an authentic Durban experience, visitors should head to the Victoria Street Market. Here, a variety of goods can be found, from spices and fresh food to clothing and crafts. The market is also a great place to sample local food, including Durban's famous curry.

Gastronomic Products of Durban

• Bunny Chow

  The Bunny Chow is an iconic dish from Durban. It's a curry served in a hollow half loaf of bread. Although the curry can be of any type, the most popular ones are lamb, chicken, and beans. This dish is a blend of Indian and African influences and is a very popular street food in Durban.

• Shisa Nyama

  Shisa Nyama, which means "burn meat" in Zulu, is a popular South African barbecue tradition in Durban. Customers select their raw meat from a counter and then grill it on an open grill. The grilled meat is served with pap (a type of polenta) and tomato and onion sauce.

• Durban Curry

  Durban is famous for its curries, which are a blend of Indian and African flavors. Durban curries are generally spicier than traditional Indian curries and are often served with rice, sambals (a type of spicy sauce) and pickles.

• Samoozas

  Samoozas are a popular snack in Durban. They are triangles of dough filled with minced meat, chicken, cheese or vegetables and then fried until crispy. They are perfect for a quick snack or to accompany a main dish.

Sporting Activities in Durban, South Africa

Surfing

With its warm climate and consistent waves, Durban is a paradise for surfers. You can rent a board and take lessons or, if you're an experienced surfer, dive straight into the waves.

Safari

South Africa is famous for its safaris and Durban is no exception. You can book a safari tour to get up close with Africa's Big Five: the lion, the leopard, the rhinoceros, the elephant, and the buffalo.

Diving

Durban's coastline is home to a diverse marine life, making it an excellent place for diving. You can explore coral reefs, shipwrecks, and encounter sharks in a diving cage.

Golf

With several world-class golf courses, Durban is a popular destination for golf lovers. You can play a round with views of the Indian Ocean or the stunning Drakensberg mountain range.

Mountain Biking

With its varied terrain and stunning landscapes, Durban is an ideal place for mountain biking. There are numerous routes and trails to explore, suitable for cyclists of all skill levels.

Places near Durban

If you are in Durban and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Umhlanga Rocks is a coastal paradise in South Africa, famous for its golden beaches, iconic lighthouse and vibrant nightlife. It offers a variety of restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to authentic local delights.

Ballito, in South Africa, is a coastal tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delicious local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood and traditional South African dishes.

Pietermaritzburg, in South Africa, is a historical and cultural gem, famous for its Victorian buildings and vibrant culinary scene. Visitors can enjoy exquisite local and international dishes at its numerous restaurants and food markets.