Durban & the Dolphin Coast
Why visit Durban & the Dolphin Coast?
The city of Durban is the gateway to KwaZulu-Natal. North of Durban is a stretch of coastline known as the Dolphin Coast where pods of bottle-nosed dolphins may be seen riding the waves just offshore. Pretty towns and lively resorts line the coast, where you’ll find beautiful beaches, a warm welcome and fabulous accommodation choices - from 5-star hotels and stylish beach houses to friendly B&Bs, our team will be happy to advise.
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Highlights of Durban & the Dolphin Coast
- Umhlanga Rocks is a short drive from Durban airport. It is an upscale coastal resort with an iconic red and white lighthouse, Whalebone Pier, promenade and choice of hotels, cafés and restaurants.
- The vibrant town of Ballito is also a short drive from the airport. It has a holiday feel, with a good choice of cafés and restaurants, as well as Blue Flag beaches and a popular tidal pool at Thompsons Bay. The Ballito Lifestyle Centre has a range of shops and popular eateries.
- From June to November humpback whales migrate along the coast, at times close enough to be spotted form the shore. Boat trips can also be arranged.
- The beaches around Ballito are well known to surfers for their excellent waves. Kite boarding and deep-sea fishing are also popular activities.
- Durban, a busy coastal town, has a sub-tropical climate and is the gateway to KwaZulu-Natal. The beautiful Botanical Gardens are worth a visit and a guided tour of the local markets will provide insights into Zulu cultures and traditions. The strong Indian influence is reflected in the exceptional cuisine, a traditional Bunny Chow (curry in a bun) is hard to resist!
Places to stay on the Dolphin Coast
"The best trip we have ever had and we have had some wonderful holidays. Africa is a very special place - we will definitely be returning to South Africa."
Mr S via The Travel Shop
" Just want to say a huge thank you for organising this honeymoon for us! It’s been even better than we ever imagined it could be. I couldn’t even tell you a highlight because I felt like we had one every day! "
Mr & Mrs R
"African Pride throughout have been professional and patient with the group's changing needs. I couldn’t recommend African Pride highly enough. It was a holiday that we all now hold as one of the best we have ever had!! Thank you."
Mr B
Explore Durban and the Dolphin Coast Your Way
A stay here is mostly to relax and recuperate and to enjoy the ocean views from one of the many beautiful hotels dotted along the coastline from Durban. However, for those looking for some exploring during their stay then there is lots on offer. Speak to one of the Africa Pride team for full details.
Local Day Tours
Historically Durban’s most popular day trips were either city tours or Zulu cultural visits in the surrounding countryside. Today we can offer smaller guided tours that sympathetically offer a deeper understanding into the local cultures of the area.
Longer Day Tours
With so much to experience in KZN, full day trips can be taken from the Durban area to give a glimpse of the some of the area’s highlights. These can include a hiking trip in the Drakensberg, a safari experience in one of the parks or to Sani Pass for an exhilarating 4x4 road trip.
Beach Stays
A beach stay is often intended for relaxation and unwinding, a welcome pause before continuing with your travels or before you return home. The area offers plenty of ways to do just that, from peaceful beach walks and rejuvenating spa treatments to a round of golf or a bit of retail therapy—all within easy reach.
Be inspired...
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DiscoverWhen to travel to Durban & the Dolphin Coast
KwaZulu-Natal is a year-round destination to visit, but as it covers such a vast area, the climate varies. We would recommend the best time to visit from April - September.
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Why Travel with African Pride
Be inspired by the African Pride Brochure
Explore some of the best experiences that Africa and the Indian Ocean has to offer in the African Pride brochure.
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How to plan a holiday
Your choice of holiday and safari to Africa & the Indian Ocean will be unique to you.
Using our extensive knowledge, experience and passion for Africa built up over many years, we are perfectly placed to tailor your personalised itinerary.
Choose your preferred destinations or experiences to include in a holiday
Talk to your travel adviser or us about your holiday requirements
We use our expertise to design an ideal holiday based on your preferences
We use the latest deals and offers for the best price available at the time
Special occasion? We can suggest little extras and hidden gems
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