Durban
South AfricaWarm Indian Ocean city with surf, curry heritage, and a laid-back promenade.
🧭 First 48 hours
Clear, quick notes to get set up fast.
📶 SIM & data
RICA with passport at King Shaka or city malls (MTN/Vodacom).
💳 Money
Cards widely accepted.
🚖 Airport transfer
Uber/Bolt or official shuttles.
🚇 Get around
Uber/Bolt; car hire for North Coast.
🏨 Where to stay
Umhlanga (beach/modern), Morningside/Berea (central), CBD waterfront for events.
🛡️ Safety basics
Prefer rideshare after dark; avoid isolated beachfront at night.
⭐ Editor’s picks
Warm water, long promenades, and curry culture—Durban is easygoing with serious flavor.
Eat
CaneCutters — Multiple
Bunny chow institution—mutton or beans if you know, you know.
The Ocean Terrace — Umhlanga
Oyster Box classic with lighthouse views.
Little India — Morningside
Homestyle thalis and dosa heaven.
Coffee
Colombo Coffee — Glenwood
Roastery with heritage and seriously dialed shots.
Bean Green — Glenwood
Small café, big flavor—try the Bluff Roast.
Do & See
Moses Mabhida Stadium SkyCar — North Beach
Arc-top viewpoint over the coast.
Umhlanga Lighthouse — Umhlanga
Photo stop plus rock pools nearby.
Golden Mile Promenade — Beachfront
Cycle or stroll at sunrise when surfers paddle out.
Night
Florida Road bars — Morningside
Cocktail crawl along a lively strip.
Gin gardens & rooftops — Various
Casual sundowners after a beach day.