Durban

The jagged peaks of the Drakensberg (Dragon Mountains) tower over KwaZulu Natal's eastern border, providing a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The Drakensberg is the highest mountain range in southern Africa and abounds with hiking trails, climbing routes, 4x4 trails, pony treks and adventure pursuits, all accessible from numerous resorts in the lower reaches. Some of the more popular resorts are Champagne Castle, Cathkin Peak, and Cathedral Peak, while Giant's Castle and its game reserve are famed for the more than 500 rock paintings left behind by the San people on cave walls. Eagles soar around the peaks in the Royal Natal National Park in the north, where the dramatic scenery includes the Amphitheatre, a five-mile long (8km) curved basalt wall. The region is largely untamed and criss-crossed by lengths of rugged dirt roads. The only road that breaches the mountain range and crosses the border to Lesotho is the hair-raising Sani Pass, which is topped by the highest pub in Africa.Adventure activities available in this stunningly beautiful area include sheer rock or ice-climbing, abseiling, and white -water rafting. It is also possible to take helicopter rides to see the dramatic scenery from above.

Website : www.drakensberg.kzn.org.za

Established in 1849, Durban's Botanical Gardens are the oldest surviving botanic garden on the African continent, and the city's oldest natural attraction. Located on Sydenham Hill Road (west of the Greyville Race Track), the gardens provide a relaxing spot to stroll among huge indigenous and exotic trees, and a stunning orchid house display. The gardens are also abuzz with birdlife and boast a lovely charity tea garden. Visitors can go for a picnic under the trees or by the pond, but should leave the sports equipment behind as frisbee and ball games are not allowed. The gardens are a popular spot for wedding photos on Saturdays, and once a month they host a Sunday afternoon concert that attracts thousands of Durbanites. Areas within the extensive grounds include a lake and reservoir, the Herb Garden, Palm Walk, Fern Dell, Amphitheatre, Japanese Garden, and much more. There are plenty of grassy areas for picnics and benches for taking a rest. The gardens are in a nice area of Durban to walk about in and are several bus routes go past. There is no entrance fee, but if visitors drive they are expected to tip the car guard about ZAR 5 for watching their vehicle.

Address : 70 St Thomas Road

Website : www.durbanbotanicgardens.org.za

This historic square in the middle of Durban is the spot where the city originated as a tiny settlement of itinerant traders and hunters in the early 19th century. It is named for Henry Francis Flynn, one of the prominent inhabitants of the time. Around the square are some interesting sights, particularly the 1910 City Hall on the south side, which is an exact replica of the City Hall of Belfast, Ireland. On the first floor of the City Hall is the Natural Science Museum, which has an interesting insect section and an array of stuffed animals that delight children despite being somewhat old-fashioned. On the second floor is the renowned Durban Art Gallery. Parents may want to explore the art gallery as their kids enjoy the Natural History Museum. Various musical, song, and dance performances are held on the City Hall steps every Wednesday, at about 1pm. Alongside the City Hall is Durban's local history museum, which is housed in the Old Court House: the first public building ever erected in Durban (1866).The Square is easily accessible by bus or taxi, and is a great place to take photos. Visitor should be careful with expensive cameras, though, and should watch their belongings, as the city centre is rife with pickpockets.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park is the largest and most exciting in a string of game parks and nature reserves in KwaZulu-Natal's far north. Many still know it by its former name, St Lucia Wetland Park. Dominated by the fascinating St Lucia estuary and lake system, the park includes eight distinct ecosystems, which vary from dry thorn scrub to tropical forest. Some of the world's highest dunes border them. The park also encloses three major lake systems, beautiful beaches, tropical reefs, Africa's largest estuarine system, and most of South Africa's remaining swamp forests. Big-Five game viewing is on offer too. Visitors should note that this is the only place in the world where they will see hippos, crocodiles and sharks co-habiting the same lagoon. There are comfortable rest camps and some very picturesque campsites in the park. The Wetland Park was declared South Africa's first UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its natural beauty, unusual ecosystems, and the 700-year-old fishing traditions of local inhabitants.As Nelson Mandela said, it must be the only place on earth where the oldest land mammal (the rhinoceros) and the world's biggest terrestrial mammal (the elephant) share an ecosystem with the world's oldest existing fish (the coelacanth) and the world's biggest marine mammal (the whale).

Website : isimangaliso.com

Construction of the Juma Masjid Mosque began in 1881, with renovations continuing until 1943. It is KwaZulu-Natal's first mosque, as well as one of the oldest and largest mosques in the Southern Hemisphere. Travellers will note that its golden-domed minarets dominate the central Indian district of downtown Durban, and that its muezzin can be heard from many parts of the city as it calls the faithful to prayer. Its architecture is a mix of classic Mughal Indian and colonial South African features, and there is space inside for up to 5,000 worshippers. Visitors are welcome on weekdays and Saturdays but the mosque is closed on Sundays. The building's flat roof is used as a prayer site during festivals but doubles as a playground for girls from the neighbouring school during the day. A bustling neighbourhood surrounds the mosque. Travellers should stop at one of the area's takeaway curry restaurants, where they should try 'bunny chow'. The dish features a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, and it is widely associated with Durban.The busy and exotic Victoria Street Market is another worthwhile diversion, as are the many small shops that sell fabric, saris, jewellery and more. The area is easily accessible by bus or taxi, but visitors should be wary of pickpockets and travel in groups.

Address : Grey Street

The KwaMuhle Museum focuses on the history of race laws in KwaZulu-Natal, showing the experiences of local people through multimedia presentations. It is housed in a building that was once the Department of Native Affairs, from which the infamous labour system was administrated. KwaMuhle means 'place of the good one' in honour of a white man who ran the department, but did his best to fight the system from within. This museum provides a fascinating and very personal look at the diverse and difficult cultural history of the region. But it is ultimately an old-fashioned museum which doesn't have much to offer small kids or those who demand a state-of-the-art interactive museum experience. The content is fascinating, and deeply moving, but the exhibitions are simple and designed for those genuinely interested in the history and willing to read the text.Guides are available but the museum is well laid-out for independent exploration. The KwaMuhle is near the centre of Durban, close to several bus and taxi routes, and is a worthwhile stop on the city's tourist circuit.

Address : 130 Ordinance Road

The popular Midlands Meander arts and crafts route winds through the Midlands, along the R103 road. It takes in a plethora of participating attractions dotted across the countryside, ranging from herb farms to antique shops. The Meander covers about 50 miles (80km) between the towns of Pietermaritzburg and Mooi River, and showcases the lovely Midlands landscapes as much as anything else. A really fun and artistic way to explore this beautiful region, the Midlands Meander is a must for those who enjoy quaint tea houses and creativity. The Meander includes adventure activities, historic landmarks, restaurants and eateries, conference and wedding facilities and the shops and studios of something like 150 talented local artists and craftsmen. For those less crafty and more active, horse riding, hiking, tubing, cycling, swimming, quad biking, and fishing can be enjoyed along the route. Northwest of Durban in the Midlands of KwaZulu-Natal is the Midmar Public Resort Nature Reserve, which offers accommodation, picnic sites and recreational opportunities around the huge Midmar Dam.This impressive body of water is one of the well-known landmarks along the Midlands Meander, and attracts huge crowds once a year for the Midmar Mile. The event is one of the world's largest open water swims, and sees Midmar is overrun with swimmers. The race's festive atmosphere is also worth experiencing.

Website : www.midlandsmeander.co.za

The Moses Mabhida Stadium was built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup and is one of South Africa's most picturesque stadiums. With its iconic 'arch of triumph', the waves of the Indian Ocean crashing in the background, and an amazing view of Durban's Beachfront, the stadium is an epic place to take in a sports game. However, it also offers some other attractions that will delight tourists. Adventurers will be able to enjoy the rush of the Big Swing, the world's only stadium swing and the largest swing of its kind in the world. After an adrenalin-pumping jump from the stadium's arch, 348 feet (106m) above the pitch, people will swing out over the pitch and 80,000 seats below. Think of it as an upright bungi jump. The Sky Car is perhaps the stadium's most notable attraction. It ferries up to 20 people to the stadium arch's highest point, from where they can enjoy incredible panoramic views of the city, while the Skywalk takes visitors up 550 steps of the arch and back down again.There are also a bunch of shops and restaurants at the stadium and tours are available for those who want to explore. The various attractions at the stadium all have different costs and timetables. Check the official website listed below for details.

Address : Isaiah Ntshangase Road (Walter Gilbert), Durban

Website : www.mosesmabhidastadium.co.za

Richards Bay is one of South Africa's biggest ports. Situated on the 12 square mile (30 sq km) lagoon of the Mhlatuze River, it began as a makeshift harbour during the South African War of 1879 and is named after its founder, Sir Frederick Richards. The specialised ships that call are a must-see for maritime buffs. The town is a bustling business centre that features every modern facility and offers plenty of recreational facilities for visitors. Tourism in Richards Bay is thriving and it's fast becoming a popular north coast holiday destination. Visitors will find spectacular scenery, pristine golden beaches and the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Tourists can also enjoy plenty of adventurous activities such as fishing, kite-surfing, yachting, and kayaking. Humpback dolphins and whales are frequent visitors to the waters around Richards Bay and can be viewed from a specially erected viewing point at Alkantstrand Beach. While the town itself is fairly sleepy, Richards Bay is an entry point to the beautiful and diverse Zululand. Additionally, a multitude of game reserves are within an hour or two's drive of the town. Hluhluwe Umfolozi Park is always a big hit with nature lovers, as it features the Big Five (elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos) as well as cheetahs, wild dogs, and nyala.Lake Mzingazi is Richards Bay's primary water supply, and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can view crocodiles and hippos as well as over 350 species of birds.The surrounds of Richard's Bay have vast expanses of untouched and unspoilt indigenous vegetation, as well as natural lakes and marshes. This makes it one of the most picturesque tourist destinations in the country.

Located just a 45-minute drive inland from Durban, Tala Private Game Reserve is a relaxed wildlife sanctuary where visitors can view zebra, hippo, rhino, giraffe, kudu, antelope, and other wildlife. The park is home to more than 350 bird species and is a delight for bird-watchers. Surrounded on all sides by farmland, visitors won't find predators like lions or cheetahs in Tala, but the reserve is a great day trip for those who prefer not to head to the bigger parks like Umfolozi or Kruger. Game drives and bush walks are available with experienced guides and should be booked in advance. The restaurant is excellent, offering buffet-style meals with African flair, and the various luxury accommodations are perfect for romantic getaways. It's also a popular venue for weddings and conferences. Tala allows self-drive safaris, which don't have to be booked in advance. Visitors can also opt to be taken on a two-hour trip with a knowledgeable guide, either by 4x4, on horseback, or on foot.The open grassland and wetland of the park are ideal for game viewing and good for photography. Tala is a year-round travel destination, but winter is generally the best season for game viewing as the animals are easier to spot when the landscape is less lush.

Website : www.tala.co.za

The BAT Centre is a haven for artists and musicians. Located on the Victoria Embankment beside the Durban harbour, its name is an acronym for Bartle Arts Trust, the organisation that helped found the centre. BATs features a studio where traditional artists can work; a hall that hosts concerts, conventions and festivals; exhibition galleries; a music store and drum shop where handcrafted wooden drums are made; and a restaurant serving authentic African dishes from all over the continent. There are stunning views of the harbour from the restaurant deck, which hosts live jazz music on Sundays. Nearby is the Maritime Museum, which details the history of the harbour and houses a restored tugboat and other interesting exhibits. The area is well worth a visit for tourists and is popular with locals too. The BAT Centre is close to bus and taxi routes, and the area should be safe to stroll around during the day. Travellers visiting at night should take a taxi or drive.Travellers should check what exhibitions and live shows are on before visiting the BAT Centre, as things can be rather sporadic.

Address : SAS Inkonkoni Building, 45 Maritime Place, Small Craft Harbour, Victoria Embankment

Website : www.batcentre.co.za

Durban's most popular attraction is the length of beach stretching across one end of the city centre. Known as the Golden Mile, the beach starts in the north at Blue Lagoon and eventually stops at uShaka Marine World in South Beach. There are various picnic and fishing hotspots, as well as the Suncoast Casino and Mini Town on North Beach. Along the way, they will travel past the skatepark, surfing museum, and restaurants in the Bay of Plenty. Dotted with elaborate kiddie pools and set against a backdrop of high-rise hotels and holiday flats, the Golden Mile is indeed the epicentre of Durban tourism. A wide, flat promenade runs nearly the entire way, dotted here and there with joggers, rickshaws and rollerbladers. The sandy beach is flat, and its gloriously warm waters are good both for surfing and swimming. The amphitheatre near North Beach hosts a large flea market on Sundays, offering everything from beaded jewellery and wood carvings to saris and DVDs.During the day, the Golden Mile is a paradise for holidaymakers and beachgoers. However, it is not considered safe to walk on the promenade after dark. Visitors should keep watch of their belongings at all times and beware of pickpockets.

Tucked away near an industrial section of Durban North and the Umgeni River, the Umgeni River Bird Park houses an ever-growing bird population. Over 200 species of birds live as residents along the shady winding paths. The park is situated in a lush tropical garden in what used to be an old quarry site. It was opened in 1984 after extensive landscaping. The park's free-flight bird show, which runs from Tuesday to Sunday at 11am and 2pm, has been entertaining families and school groups for over a decade. It featuring vultures, owls, cranes, and other impressive fowl. The free-flight shows are also available on Mondays during South African school holidays. The birds included in the show change frequently and a visit to the park is hardly complete without seeing this performance. There is an undercover cafe in the heart of the park that offers refreshments and light meals. The park is accessible by bus, but the route is not in constant use.

Address : 490 Riverside Road, Durban

Website : www.umgeniriverbirdpark.co.za

uShaka Marine World is the largest marine theme park in Africa. The park is tastefully themed with African imagery and has five zones offering entertainment, dining, shops, water slides, and access to uShaka Beach. Wet 'n Wild contains a number of water thrills, ranging from heart-stopping, adrenalin-pumping rides to lazy activities for the less adventurous. There is an aquarium with thousands of fish, reptiles, and aquatic mammals on display; a dolphinarium that performs regular musical shows; a penguin rookery; and underwater activities like snorkelling and the 'shark walk'. The Village Walk features the Dangerous Creatures exhibit, which includes spiders, snakes, frogs, scorpions, and other poisonous creatures. Rayz Kids World gives children a place to burn off energy with massive jungle gyms and climbing structures, while Moyo Restaurant is a wonderful option for adults. uShaka is in South Beach, so visitors can walk there along the beach, or take a bus or taxi. The area can be dangerous, but once inside, the park security is good and it's perfectly safe. Lockers can be rented to keep belongings safe.

Address : 1 Bell Street

Website : www.ushakamarineworld.co.za

Zululand is the ancestral home of the Zulu people. It is the site of many bloody battles between the British, the Zulus and the Afrikaners during the 19th century, and is best explored as a self-drive adventure. That said, many tours are available from Durban. Almost every town in this part of northern KwaZulu-Natal has a story to tell or an event to commemorate. Tourism offices throughout the region provide maps and guides to help visitors make the most of the culture, history, scenery and wildlife. The landscape varies from plains and rolling hills, to river valleys and lush forests, and it once encompassed the legendary Shake Zulu's kingdom. He clashed with the British and Afrikaners in many epic battles. Eshowe is the Zulu nation's centre. King Shake was born close to the small town, and it was the site of a 10-week siege during the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879. Ladysmith and Dundee are other notable towns. The historic battles of Rourke's Drift, Blood River and Isandlwana took place near them.Some of the battlefields include museums or memorials, while others are just open landscapes where visitors can stroll with guide books and engage their own imaginations.

Website : www.battlefields.kzn.org.za