Book Cheap Flights to Durban

The locals in Durban are incredibly welcoming and are always happy to assist tourists with finding their way around. Like any modern metropolis, Durban is a fairly safe city but petty crimes are common, especially towards tourists.

Be vigilant at all times and keep an eye on personal belongings. As a precaution, carry money and cards in a travel purse secured under your clothes or ensure bags are always zipped closed. It is not advisable to walk around at night, especially for solo female travellers. Uber and Taxify are reliable taxi services to transport you around the city. You can also ask your hotel to advise you on the safe zones within the city, which they will gladly point out.

There are no required vaccinations for entering South Africa. However, proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are travelling from an infected areas. Durban experiences hot, humid weather so a good sunblock and insect repellent is essential. Tap water is perfectly safe to drink and you can order a glass of water in restaurants at no charge. The city has excellent medical facilities and pharmacies where you’ll be able to purchase a wide range of products.

The Durban city centre has a few options for bargain hunters, from backpackers dotted along the famous Florida Road and Morningside, to couch-surfing across the city. Mid-range forms of accommodation include beautiful guest houses, campsites and Airbnb’s.

You can find more upscale accommodation in the form of hotels and private beach houses. Some of the best areas to stay in are Umhlanga, Ballito and Margate – a stone’s throw from the golden beaches. For a quiet getaway, the Drakensberg Mountains are perfect for hiking and camping, boasting stunning views of the evergreen mountain ranges.

Wherever you choose to stay, Durban has many options to suit every taste and budget!

The best way to get around Durban is by car, which can be rented at the airport or in the city centre. International visitors opting to rent and drive themselves around will need an international driving license. If you do not have one, ensure you have your foreign driving license with a certified English translation (if required). Alternatively, you can make use of Uber or other registered taxi services to get around.

Minibus taxis are commonly spotted by their loud music, colourful façade and locals hanging out of the windows scouting for passengers. While these may seem fun to try, the drivers are often reckless and taxis overcrowded. The promenades and harbour strips are perfect for some lazy summer strolling, and if you get tired, you can take a rickshaw ride along the beachfront, enjoying the stunning sea views.