Durban

Vibrant Durban, the third largest city in South Africa and a major port, is an exciting cosmopolitan mix of Indian, African and English as well as Zulu cultures. The climate is warmer in the winter than the Western cape so its sandy beaches, protected by shark nets, are a year-round attraction. Victorian buildings stand side by side with bazaars, mosques and temples. Recent developments include the uShaka Marine World with the fifth largest aquarium in the world. There are numerous museums, one of the most fascinating being the Kwa Muhle Museum devoted to the last two centuries of Durban history during colonial and apartheid eras. There are some lovely botanical gardens and a Bird Park and the excellent diving area of Aliwal Shoal is around 30mins drive from the city. Durban is an ideal setting off point for the KwaZulu-Natal game parks, wetlands, historic battlefields, and the Drakensberg Mountains and coast.