
Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Durban, South Africa
1. Umhlanga Rocks
Charming coastal village offering a variety of restaurants and shops with breathtaking sea views.
- Beach Access: Direct access to beautiful beaches for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
- Diverse Dining Options: From casual eateries to fine dining, catering to a wide range of tastes.
- Close Proximity to Durban: Easily reachable by car or taxi in under an hour from the city center.
2. Ballito
Vibrant coastal town with a variety of beaches and water sports activities.
- Water Sports Activities: Offers a wide range of water sports such as surfing, paddle boarding, and kite surfing.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Boasts several family-friendly beaches with lifeguards on duty.
- Convenient Location: Ideal for a weekend getaway, being only an hour's drive north of Durban.
3. Pietermaritzburg
Historic city offering a peaceful retreat with colonial architecture and scenic landscapes.
- Rich History: Steeped in history, visit landmarks like City Hall and the railway station.
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by lush landscapes and the dramatic Drakensberg mountain range.
- Accessible from Durban: Easily reachable by car or train, just over an hour's travel from Durban.
4. Howick Falls
Stunning waterfall and natural reserve with hiking trails and birdwatching opportunities.
- Natural Beauty: Breathtaking views of the 100-meter high waterfall.
- Hiking and Birdwatching: Explore various hiking trails or enjoy birdwatching in the surrounding forest.
- Easy Day Trip: Ideal for a day trip from Durban, located less than an hour's drive away.
5. Midmar Dam
Popular recreational spot for watersports and picnicking.
- Watersports Activities: Offers activities like sailing, canoeing, and fishing.
- Picnic Areas: Beautiful picnic spots with stunning views of the dam.
- Accessible from Durban: Approximately an hour's drive from Durban, making it a convenient weekend getaway.
6. Natal Spa Hotel
Luxurious spa resort offering relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Spa Facilities: State-of-the-art spa facilities for ultimate relaxation.
- Restaurant and Bar Options: Variety of dining and drinking options, catering to different tastes.
- Golf Course: 18-hole golf course for golf enthusiasts.
7. Karkloof Safari Spa
Combines wildlife viewing with relaxation and wellness experiences.
- Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to view various species of African wildlife.
- Spa Facilities: Comprehensive spa offerings for rejuvenation and relaxation.
- Diverse Activities: Activities like horseback riding, hot air balloon rides, and quad biking available.
8. Scottburgh
Quiet coastal town with beautiful beaches and fishing opportunities.
- Fishing Opportunities: Popular spot for both recreational and professional fishermen.
- Beautiful Beaches: Stretches of pristine beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or picnicking.
- Easy Accessibility: Less than an hour's drive south from Durban, making it a convenient weekend getaway.
9. Dundee
Historical town with Victorian architecture and nearby battlefield sites.
- Rich History: Steeped in history, visit the Anglo-Zulu War museums.
- Victorian Architecture: Preserved Victorian buildings adding charm to the town.
- Battlefield Sites: Nearby battlefield sites offer insight into South Africa's history.
10. Amanzimtoti
Relaxing coastal town with a variety of beaches and family-friendly amenities.
- Family-Friendly Beaches: Beautiful, lifeguard-patrolled beaches ideal for families.
- Diverse Restaurants: A wide range of restaurants catering to different tastes.
- Close Proximity to Durban: Easily accessible by car or public transport, less than an hour's drive from the city.
11. Port Edward
Scenic coastal town offering fishing, boat trips, and hiking opportunities.
- Fishing Opportunities: Popular spot for both recreational and professional fishermen.
- Boat Trips: Scenic boat trips to explore the coastline and marine life.
- Hiking Trails: Several hiking trails offering beautiful views of the landscape.
12. KwaZulu-Natal Midlands
Scenic region with charming towns, artisanal shops, and scenic drives.
- Scenic Beauty: Beautiful landscapes of lush rolling hills and valleys.
- Artisanal Shops: Unique shops selling local crafts, art, and produce.
- Scenic Drives: Famous for scenic drives like the Midlands Meander.
13. Drakensberg Mountains
Stunning mountain range offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and breathtaking views.
- Hiking Opportunities: Various hiking trails catering to different skill levels.
- Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to spot wildlife like antelope and birdlife.
- Scenic Beauty: Breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
14. Ulundi
Historic town with rich Zulu culture and nearby battlefield sites.
- Rich History: Steeped in history, visit the Ulundi Museum.
- Zulu Culture: Opportunities to learn about and immerse yourself in Zulu culture.
- Battlefield Sites: Nearby battlefield sites offer insight into South Africa's history.
15. Greytown
Charming town with Victorian architecture and nearby wildlife reserves.
- Victorian Architecture: Preserved Victorian buildings adding charm to the town.
- Wildlife Reserves: Nearby wildlife reserves offer opportunities for safari experiences.
- Accessible from Durban: Less than two hours' drive south of Durban, making it a convenient weekend getaway.