Things to do with kids in Durban
Durban is a fun and entertaining destination for those travelling with children. The famous Golden Mile beachfront offers gentle waves in which kids can splash and play, and wading pools for those too little to venture deep.
Shark nets protect most of Durban's coastline, making the ocean very safe. There are usually some funfair rides and other fun distractions along the beachfront, including the old gondola that allows a view of the beach from above.
Minitown in North Beach is another way to get a bird's eye view of the city, as it allows visitors to wander through miniaturised versions of buildings and landmarks. uShaka Marine World gives children an exciting educational experience in its massive aquarium. By contrast, parents can let kids loose in the Wet 'n Wild Water Park, which is home to numerous exciting water slides. Parents should pack sunscreen though, as the Durban sun can be brutal, especially in the summer months.
Gateway Theatre of Shopping in Umhlanga has much to offer children of all ages, and ensures there's a lot to do in Durban for kids and teenagers, with a massive indoor climbing wall, and a skate park designed by Tony Hawk. It also boasts an IMAX theatre, ten-pin bowling, a video arcade, indoor carnival rides, and go-kart racing. Gateway is the best place to head with kids on a rainy day.
For a relaxed afternoon picnic, the Durban Botanic Gardens are a scenic oasis in the middle of town. Otherwise, travellers can visit the manicured Mitchell Park, which has a restaurant and tea garden, a small and slightly dilapidated zoo, and a playground that features a special area specifically designed for handicapped children.
uShaka Marine World
uShaka Marine World is the largest marine theme park in Africa. The park is tastefully themed with African imagery and has five zones offering entertainment, dining, shops, water s…
KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board
For something fun and educational, parents should take their kids to the KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board. Located just nine miles (15km) north of Durban, it offers visitors the chance t…
Mini Town
Located on Durban's beachfront, this knee-high miniature replica of Durban makes a great outing for families and kids of all ages. It features moving models of planes and trains, a…
Umgeni River Bird Park
Tucked away near an industrial section of Durban North and the Umgeni River, the Umgeni River Bird Park houses an ever-growing bird population. Over 200 species of birds live as re…