Private Cultural and Historic Durban City Tour
Active
5h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A half day Durban City tour introduces visitors to a vibrant, ethnically diverse city with a fascinating history. Durban offers a rich mix of cultures and cuisine, some of the world’s best beaches, and great weather all-year round. It is one of South Africa’s major cities, and is the largest city in KwaZulu-Natal. Included is a visit to the historic Durban Botanic Gardens, home to the legendary Wood’s Cycad (Encephalartos woodii), the rarest plants in the world and extinct in the wild.
The tour explores Durban’s key landmarks, coastline, historic areas, and cultural neighbourhoods, with meaningful commentary that goes beyond a standard experience. Our signature approach focuses on context, history, culture, and connection. Included, is
a taste of Durban – The Best Bunny Chow in Durban (an authentic Indian curry cuisine).
On booking, you can customise your tour to focus specifically on Zulu cultural heritage or Indian cultural traditions, tailoring the experience to your interests.
Available options
Zulu Cultural Tour
Authentic Shisanyama <br/>Specific to Zulu heritage <br/>Pickup included
Signature Cultural and Historic Durban City Tour
Pickup included
Indian Cultural Tour
Visit local Indian Suburb<br/>Specific to Indian heritage <br/>Pickup included
In Depth Durban City Tour
Museums & temples : KwaMuhle Museum & Phansi Museum – A local Museum and Gallery
Hare Krishna Temple of Understanding
Local suburbs <br/>Duration: 10 hours: For more in depth experience of Durban & a full day out to immerse yourself in our culture & history <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
All entrance and admission fees included
Bottled water
All entrance and admission fees included
Should you wish you may enjoy a lcoal beer or other beverages with your meal
Lunch
Snacks
Air-conditioned vehicle
All inclusive tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
A visit to the Durban Botanic Gardens offers a peaceful escape into one of Africa’s oldest botanical gardens. Wander shaded paths, discover rare cycads and orchids, enjoy birdlife and calm water features, and take in the quiet beauty just minutes from the city. Your guide will share the stories and secrets hidden within the gardens.
2
Stop 2
A visit to Durban City Hall reveals one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Admire its grand Edwardian architecture, explore the historic interior, and gain insight into Durban’s civic history and cultural heritage at the heart of the city.
3
Stop 3
A visit to the Victoria Street Market is a sensory experience of colour, aroma, and culture. Wander through spice stalls, traditional mooti medicine shops, and vibrant traders, gaining insight into Durban’s rich Indian heritage and living traditions.
4
A Bunny Chow experience introduces you to Durban’s most iconic street food. Enjoy a freshly baked loaf filled with rich, flavourful curry, and learn about its local origins while tasting a dish that reflects the city’s diverse cultural roots and bold flavours.
5
Drive around Durban and stop at unique attractions as your guide shares the city’s unique history and vibrant culture. On booking, you can customise your tour to focus specifically on Zulu cultural heritage or Indian cultural traditions, tailoring the experience to your interests.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Durban
Durban is a vibrant coastal city in South Africa known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and warm tropical climate. It's a melting pot of cultures, offering a unique blend of African, Indian, and colonial influences.
Top Attractions
Golden Mile
A stretch of beautiful beaches along the Durban coastline, offering a variety of water sports, beach activities, and a vibrant promenade.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free to enter, activities vary in cost
uShaka Marine World
A popular theme park and marine park featuring a variety of attractions, including a water park, aquarium, and dolphin shows.
Entertainment
Full day
Moderate to expensive
Durban Botanical Gardens
A beautiful botanical garden featuring a variety of plant species, walking trails, and a heritage site.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free to enter, small fee for special exhibits
Victoria Street Market
A bustling market offering a variety of goods, including spices, textiles, and handmade crafts.
Market
1-2 hours
Budget to moderate
Durban Museum
A museum showcasing the natural and cultural history of Durban and the surrounding region.
Museum
1-2 hours
Budget
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bunny Chow
A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken, lamb, or beans. It's a popular street food in Durban.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Biltong
Dried, cured meat, similar to jerky, made from various types of meat such as beef, game, or ostrich.
Snack
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Bunny Chow
A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken, lamb, or beans. It's a popular street food in Durban.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Durban Curry
A spicy curry dish with roots in Indian cuisine, often made with chicken, lamb, or seafood, and flavored with local spices.
Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Popular Activities
Surfing
Hiking
Mountain biking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga
Cultural tours
Museum visits
Best Time to Visit
December to February
This is the summer season with warm temperatures, frequent rain showers, and bustling beaches. It's the peak tourist season with vibrant festivals and events.
23°C to 30°C
73°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Zulu, English
- Widely spoken: Zulu, English, Afrikaans, Xhosa
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
South African Rand (ZAR)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Durban is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and violent crime can occur, particularly in certain areas and at night. Exercise caution, be aware of your surroundings, and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night
Getting there
By air
- King Shaka International Airport • 35 km from city center
By train
Durban Station
By bus
Durban Bus Terminal, Grey Street Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
DART buses are affordable and convenient for getting around. They operate on dedicated bus lanes, making them faster than regular buses.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Berea
Morningside
Umgeni Road
Day trips
Valley of a Thousand Hills
30 km from Durban • Half day to full day
A scenic region known for its rolling hills, traditional Zulu villages, and cultural experiences. It offers a glimpse into rural Zulu life and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
St. Lucia
200 km from Durban • Full day or overnight
A coastal town in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife, and water activities. It's a popular destination for boat cruises, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting.
Drakensberg Mountains
250 km from Durban • Full day or overnight
A stunning mountain range known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a break from the city.
Festivals
Durban July • July
Durban International Film Festival • October
Sugar Rush Festival • December to January
Pro tips
- Visit the beach early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures
- Try local street food like bunny chow and samosas for an authentic Durban culinary experience
- Explore the city's cultural heritage by visiting the Victoria Street Market and the Durban Botanical Gardens
- Take a day trip to the Valley of a Thousand Hills for a scenic and cultural experience
- Attend a local event or festival, such as the Durban July or the Durban International Film Festival, for a unique and memorable experience
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
