Durban ranks among the world’s top travel destinations for 2026

The travel superstars at Time Out have spoken! In its newly released list of The Best Places to Travel in 2026, Durban has clinched a well-deserved 14th spot, cementing its status as South Africa’s coolest coastal city and a global destination worth shouting about.

Durbs finds itself in fabulous company, coming in just below Australia’s dreamy Rottnest Island, and ahead of Saint Helena Island, a paradise for off-grid adventurers.

Sitting pretty in the number one spot is the Canadian Rockies, a breathtaking wilderness now home to a hotly anticipated new thermal spa destination.

Other headline destinations in the top 20 include:

• Rabat, Morocco (2): Stepping into the spotlight with new cultural icons
• Algodões, Brazil (3): Pristine beaches with barefoot energy
• Hamburg, Germany (4): Adding major new cultural landmarks
• Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand (5): A hiker’s high-altitude heaven

Why Durban?

For years, Durban has been overshadowed by Cape Town’s mountains, Joburg’s buzz, and the Kruger National Park's, well, wildlife, probably!

But 2026 marks the year the spotlight finally swings East.

Durban delivers that unbeatable mix of seaside chill, cultural richness, and nature-based adventure that global travellers crave.

Warm ocean. Warm weather. Even warmer people. And a REALLY warm curry that will change your life.

Here are some of the incredible highlights of Durban (and surrounds):

• Golden beaches, balmy water, and world-class surf
• The exciting new Club Med ‘Beach and Safari’ resort launching in July 2026
• Big 5 adventures in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, iSimangaliso, and beyond
• Majestic Drakensberg escapes just a road trip away
• The Midlands Meander for craft, cuisine, and creativity
• Flavour-filled cuisine drawing on the rich cultural influences of Durban
• Historical and cultural sites and tours across the Zulu Kingdom
• A laid-back atmosphere and famously friendly locals

Really, what doesn’t Durban have?

Read: The best things to do in Durban

Durban’s moment has arrived

Visitors from across the world are about to discover South Africa’s favourite playground. And once they’ve experienced this unbeatable vibe, we’re betting Durban climbs even higher.

14th today... Top 10 tomorrow.

The world is finally catching on to what locals already know: Durban is magic!

TIME OUT RECOMMENDS:

😋 The best restaurants in Durban
🏨 The best hotels in Durban
🛏️ Where to stay in Durban