What to do and see in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal: The Best Cultural Tours

October 25, 2021 Agatha Simes

The Indian and colonial influences in this South African beach city can’t be missed, and the blend of cultures and architecture makes Durban unique in South Africa. Durban’s Golden Mile is a destination for surfers, families and fisherman, due to its blend of natural beauty and modern resort. Major-city attractions abound, making this a good destination for families and couples alike.
Restaurants in Durban

1. Day Tour of Rorkes Drift and Isandlwana

Country and Coastal Touring
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5.0 based on 6 reviews

On this amazing day tour you'll get to walk the very ground that the British and Zulu fought on and with your qualified and passionate guide, will gain a deeper understanding of the battles themselves as well as the events that led up to the battles of Rorkes Drift and Isandlwana.

Inclusions: Qualified and passionate guide, Amazing historical walking day Tour, Small museum to explore

Exclusions: Lunch can be enjoyed at the small shop at the Rorkes Drift site.

Reviewed By sabinesky

Shelldon was an awesome guide. He custumized a 3 day tour for our group of seven friends. He picked us up in Durban and on our way to Hluhluwe we stoped at the Cheetah Rehabilitation Centre to see cheetahs and other cats very close. We did a Game Drive in Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve in the evening and we did more on the next day. We always had the option to do something else or to use the open cars from the hilltop camp. Shelldon told us a lot about Southafrica, Zulu culture and the animals we saw. And we saw a lot of animals like elephants, rhinos or buffalos. On the last day we went to SodwanaBay for diving. It was an excellent spot were we got to see turtles and a shark! As an extra he recommeded a perfect surfing spot in Durban to us. I totally recommend Shelldon as a guide und will definitely do a tour with him again whenever I come back to Southafrica.

2. Durban City Tour

Afro Zulu Tours
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

Our tour of Durban, a bustling metropolis, often called the cultural ‘melting pot’ of South Africa, includes a drive through the sports corridor with its impressive sporting facilities to the Blue Lagoon area on the Umgeni River where you get a panoramic view of the whole bay of Durban. Then past the so-called Apartheid Beaches, the Marine Parade (Golden Mile) where you will see the rickshaws, en route to the impressive developments at the new Point Waterfront area. We drive past the busiest harbour in Africa and various historical monuments, and then through the city centre where the original Railway Station building, the City Hall and the Post Office buildings each have a story to tell. We stop at the Indian Market where you get a glimpse into the Indian culture and bargain for souvenirs and spices. Our last visit is to the Botanical Gardens with its extensive collection of trees and plants from all over the world, as well as a famous cycad collection and orchid garden.

Inclusions: Bottled water, Air-conditioned vehicle, All Fees and Taxes

Exclusions: Tipping

Reviewed By Bulat2318

Wonderful journey. Due to almost suspense of tourism at covid I was alone and all attention was for me like in personal VIP tour. Pickup and return on-time. Car and SUV were comfy. SUV driver is high professional in hard and dangerous mountain road. Zamani is knowing guide and also good driver. Both are great interlocutors. I saw some places in Durban and pleasant landscapes, towns and animals on the way. Sani Pass has impressionable mountains, gorges, rivers, waterfalls and plants. I watched the village in Lesotho with it's special countrylife and highest pub in Africa. And we were so lucky with our sunny trip just after that the weather changed to rainy. I'm extra satisfied! High recommendations! Many thanks! Ngibona kakhulu!

3. Battlefield Tour, Duration : 14hrs, Cost : R3127pp - 2 or more pax travelling

Sbrm Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

On this Battlefield we focus on the Isandlwana Battlefield and Rorkes drift Battlefield. These are the two major wars between Zulus and British People . In our Battlefield Tour we include a guide who will be introducing the battles , the victory between the 2 countries. Our Guides introduce these battles and lay out the foundation for details which will be given by the Battlefield specialist in the real sites where everything happened. These battlefield has a museum which guest will have to visit for clarification of points. Guest are then taken to the real sites starting with Isandlwana Battlefield followed by Rorkes Drift Battlefield. It is a combination of sorrows and victories for both battlefield. The Battlefield include the study, the research , the moment of truth for those people who has watched the film Zulu. Our lunch will be at Rorkes Drift site and then we driveback to Durban.on our way back the guest keep engaging with guest to clarify everything.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Lunch, Soda/Pop, Bottled water in a cooler box and 100% juice

Exclusions: Alcoholic Beverages

Reviewed By Rampersad88

My Parents and I had the pleasure of meeting and spending the day with Baja. She was absoloutly amazing and well knowledable of everything we did that day. Baja treated us like family (which made the day that much better). Each place we visited we got to take our time and complete each element of the day. Some places we took a little longer then expected, however we were not rushed and this didnt interfare with the remainder of the day. As a born Hindu living in Toronto the Indian Culture Tour was more than I expected. I not only learned more about the rish culture as a Hindu but how they contributed to life in Durban as well as learning a bit more of my family history. I highly reccomend booking a tour and if you get a chance to meet Baja you will love her as much as my family did.

4. Valley of a Thousand Hills - Durban

Endless Summer Tours
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

Enjoy an incredible day at the Valley of a Thousand Hills, with spectacular views and an epic cultural experience. Walk around a traditional Zulu homestead, before enjoying an awesome dance show. Lastly a trip around the reptile park, rounds off a fun filled day.

Inclusions: Bottled water, Private transportation, Private tour guide, All entrance fees and expenses

Exclusions: Gratuities , Alcoholic Beverages

Reviewed By 781ryand

We booked a tour of the Kruger with Endless Summer when we were over in South Africa for a wedding in December. Steve showed passion and knowledge about not just the Kruger, but South Africa as a whole - he answered all our questions about a country which was so new to us. The entire Safari experience was perfect - the balance of time out on drives and in camp relaxing with a beer was spot on, the food was incredible, always plentiful, and brilliantly paired with some SA wine, and we can't fault Steve as a guide. I would re-book the same trip in a heartbeat (though we might explore some of the other options next time!) Thank you Endless Summer, and Steve, for making our South African adventure one we'll never forget!

5. Culture Walking Tour of Durban

169 9th Ave, Morningside, Durban, 4000, South Africa Johnny Matthews
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5.0 based on 24 reviews

Johnny is a true Durbanite and knows the city and it's people like no other. Therefore, a city tour with Johnny shows the unique sides of Durban that you will never forget. The tour will take you through town to the markets and the beach by using the famous combi's to get from one place to another. Fun and adventure guaranteed!

Inclusions: Lunch, Local minibus combi from starting point and back to where the tour ends, Personal guide

Exclusions: No drinks included, Personal expenses, Pick-up from hotel

6. Durban: Drakensberg Rock Art, Midlands Meander & Mandela Capture Site

Wild Routes Africa
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Welcome to Kamberg — home to the Rosetta Stone of SAN/Bushman Rock Art. Meet our Anthropologist, Dr Jeremy Hollmann, who’ll help you unlock this mysterious place. Start with an introductory video on the SAN. Dr Hollmann will guide you through the rugged terrain to Game Pass Shelter and delve deeper into the anthropology of the SAN people. Here you will have a chance to take in the mystery of Bushman Rock Art as we explore theories and beliefs that underpin the art. Tuck into lunch at the Nottingham Road Brewery (own cost) before journeying along the Midlands Meander. Visit to the internationally acclaimed Ardmore Ceramics where you can expect an exhibition of creativity. Finish the day with an iconic stop at the Nelson Mandela Capture Site for a peek into South African notorious history and a bucketlist photograph. Please note: on this tour you will have access to a specialist on SAN or Bushman Rock Art as well as an anthropologist who has studied this area and people of this area.

Inclusions: Bottled water, Snacks, All Fees and Taxes

Exclusions: Lunch

Reviewed By 79rupeshk

We got to explore Durban like real locals thanks to @wildroutesafrica. We took the Durban from within tour with Thabo. From the best bunny to Durban inner city secrets, the graffiti movement , visiting{ largest muthi market, not pictured due to privacy. The botanical garden was fascinating and each experince was led by experts in their field. As locals we are often miss the hidden gems right under our noses and this was a phenomenal way to. Don't hesitate book this tour on your next visit to Durban. Thanks Justin and Thabo.

7. Durban from Within : An Immersive City Tour

Wild Routes Africa
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Start the day strolling through Africa’s oldest surviving Botanical Gardens with our passionate horticulturalist tapping into its history and unique collection. Unlock the trendy suburb of Glenwood with artist Mooki Lion and track down the public portfolios of local street artists. Time to meet Mama Nkosi otherwise known as the dancing curator of one of the largest collections of traditional art as she reveals indigenous beliefs and tribal culture. Tuck into lunch (own cost) and sample the popular flavours of Durban — ever tried a bunny chow? With your energy levels restored, enter into the beating heart of the city — Victoria Street Market — and meet local merchants as they peddle their wares. Drive through the city centre as your guide brings it to life with historical anecdotes and an encyclopaedia of knowledge. Moses Mabhida Stadium isn’t just great to look at, it’s also terrific to jump off (own cost). Finish the day at Station Drive Precinct for an artisan gelato tasting.

Inclusions: Bottled water, Artisan Gelato Tasting, All Fees and Taxes

Exclusions: Lunch

Reviewed By 79rupeshk

We got to explore Durban like real locals thanks to @wildroutesafrica. We took the Durban from within tour with Thabo. From the best bunny to Durban inner city secrets, the graffiti movement , visiting{ largest muthi market, not pictured due to privacy. The botanical garden was fascinating and each experince was led by experts in their field. As locals we are often miss the hidden gems right under our noses and this was a phenomenal way to. Don't hesitate book this tour on your next visit to Durban. Thanks Justin and Thabo.

8. Hluhluwe Imfolozi Big 5 Reserve day Safari from Durban

Tim Brown Tours - Durban Safari Tours
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4.9 based on 30 reviews

Experience our adrenaline-gushing wildlife safaris to Hluhluwe Imfolozi ‘Big 5’ Game Reserve organized by Tim Brown Tours. A Hluhluwe Safari is your best chance of seeing some of the ‘Big 5’ near a big City like Durban. The region of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal boasts some splendid Safari game reserves and big 5 safari national parks. Located at a distance of merely 2.5 hours drive from Durban, the Hluhluwe Imfolozi game reserve offers a world of wilderness where an enriched variety of fauna lives together in harmony with nature. The Hluhluwe game reserve harbors the famous BIG 5 of wildlife: Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Buffalo and Elephant; offering a dream adventure for any wildlife enthusiast. The Hluhluwe Imfolozi game reserve is malaria -free zone and is very popular among a lot of tourists. Book our Safari Tour now and get ready for a fantastic adventure!

Inclusions: Listed Activities, Transport – Pick-up and Drop-off, Guide, Bottled Water (We only supply a limited number of bottles per day, should you require additional, this will be for your own account, Bottled water

Exclusions: Items of Personal Nature, Lunch, Beverages: Beer; Wine; Cold Drinks, Gratuities, Any other items not listed in the Inclusions

Reviewed By igort122

Our guide Paul picked us up promptly at 6am and made the drive to the park. We had a great day. He is extremely knowledgeable and he cares deeply about his work. Excellent tour! Excellent guide! Please remember to tip your guides!

9. Hluhluwe Imfolozi Safari & St Lucia Boat Safari Private Day Tour from Durban

Gooderson Tropicana Hotel, 85 O R Tambo Parade, South Beach, Durban, 4001, South Africa Zulu Safaris
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4.6 based on 19 reviews

This tour has two main features. First you will visit St Lucia and the estuary inside the  iSimangaliso Wetlands Park. There you will board a river boat for a  2 hours guided tour of the estuary. The local guide will inform you of the reserves history and its incredible wildlife. After a short visit to the town of St Lucia and the beach, you will head off to the  Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve where your experienced guide will show you around the park in search of the diverse wildlife and big 5.

Inclusions: Collection and drop off from Durban in an Air-conditioned vehicle, Qualified Tour Guide

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Lunch, Gratuities

Reviewed By RoseMarieOhio

Freddie, our amazing guide, was the best part. We arrived by cruise ship, 2 hour late. He waited and reorganized our tour so we missed only one small thing I can't even remember. We saw everything else including lions and hippos after the best time with the Zulu performance. I would give him more stars if I could. At the end of the tour, his boss called to make sure we were taken care of. When I spoke to him, he pretty much said it went so well because we had Freddie. Freddie knew every nuance of our visits....how much time to allow, what to pass over more quickly, where to spend the most time. Thanks to all of you.

10. Durban Shore Excursion: Valley of 1000 Hills and PheZulu Tour

MSC Cruises N-Shed Passenger Terminal, South Beach, Durban, 4001, South Africa Springbok Atlas Day Tours
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4.5 based on 2 reviews

Escape from civilisation, heighten your senses and increase your awe at the true splendour of Mother Nature’s canvas and palette. Your guide will collect you from Durban port and you journey inland through the province of KwaZulu-Natal, through villages and gentle rolling countryside, which give way to the most spectacular vistas, known as the Valley of a Thousand Hills. Here, at PheZulu, you will be immersed in the fascinating culture and traditions of a proud Zulu Nation and have the opportunity to interact with the villagers and purchase traditional and modern souvenirs. A visit to the on-site crocodile park is also included. After an enjoyable day out, you will be safely returned to Durban port in good time for your ship’s departure.

Inclusions: Return transfers from Durban port, Services of a qualified guide, Air-conditioned vehicle, Phezulu Cultural Village , Visit to an onsite crocodile and Snake park

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By Aimeescott12

Our curated wine experience was incredible. Our tour guide Roger ensured we learnt at each farm, tasted the best wines at each farm and walked away feeling amazing. It was the best experience, and Roger was a wonderful host. We are very glad to have had Roger as our guide. He ensured we received the best wines at each farm, and assisted us with choosing our favorites from each farm to purchase. Thank you Roger for the most fantastic day, despite the rain.

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