Durban Travel Guide

Durban (Zulu: eThekwini; itheku means "city") is a city on the east coast of South Africa in the province of KwaZulu-Natal and in the municipality of eThekwini. It is the third largest city in South Africa and the busiest port in Africa. As of 2011, the population of the eThekwini municipality was around 3.4 million. In 2020, it was named the greenest city in the world by Husqvarna Urban Green Space Index because of its many parks.

Taxi fares from the new airport to the hotels on Marine Parade and centre of Durban can cost well overR400. However, next to the taxi rank, there is an airport shuttle bus service that leaves every hour on the hour (or as soon as the bus has several passengers) for R80 per person, though it may take longer to reach your hotel. The taxi drivers can be quite aggressive and will try to intercept you before you reach the shuttle.

The best way to get around Durban is by car. Check that you have the latest updated street maps and/or GPS device as some street names have changed. It also helps to have a list of old and new names as some of the new names are vandalized.

The beach strip is frequently patrolled by policemen, there are CCTV cameras and many lights at night. As everywhere else, there are several basic safety rules to follow. Avoid dark, deserted areas, and do not go out alone in the early hours of the morning. The promenade along the beach is safe to walk, but do not venture to the side and back roads of the hotels.