The best small town experiences near Durban

Stretching across 1.3 million hectares in northern KwaZulu-Natal, iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Located just five minutes north of the town of St Lucia, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife.

The park boasts Africa’s biggest population of hippos, the world’s oldest living fish, the coelacanth, leatherback sea turtles, as well as African rhino, elephants, migrating whales, lions, crocodiles, and more than 520 bird species.

iSimangaliso offers once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to experience these remarkable animals in their natural habitat, including:

• Horseback beach and safari rides
• Boat cruises
• Game drives
• Whale watching
• Bird watching

As always, visitors are encouraged to respect the park, its wildlife, and their natural habitats by maintaining a safe viewing distance at all times.

Distance from Durban: iSimangaliso Wetland Park is approximately 234 km (about 2 hours 40 minutes) from Durban, making it ideal for either a day trip or an overnight getaway.

Accommodation: Book here. 

If you’re looking for more bang for your buck, or in this case your petrol, plan a weekend or extended stay in Ballito, where you can enjoy something new and exciting every day of your trip.

Visiting during the summer? The Litchi Harvest is a must. Expect lively food stalls, tractor rides, and, of course, the chance to pick your own juicy litchis straight from the trees.

For the active type, or the true thalassophile (yes, that’s someone who needs to be near the ocean at all times), a horseback ride along the beach is right up your alley.

Prefer a touch of luxury and your own White Lotus moment? Zimbali is calling. This tropical coastal resort and residential estate is home to an 18-hole Ernie Els Signature Golf Course, lavish villas, and world-class five-star resorts.

Distance from Durban: A quick 36-minute (46.6 km) drive from Durban will take you straight to Ballito.

Accommodation: Book here.

The annual Sardine Run is a natural phenomenon that takes place during the winter months of June and July along the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, particularly around Port Edward, transforming the ocean into a glittering sea of silver.

This spectacular event involves the mass migration of millions of sardines, which in turn attracts a variety of predators, including dolphins, sharks, whales, seabirds, and game fish. As a result, it is considered one of the most thrilling marine events to witness from the beach.

For something a bit more rare, check out the Red Desert - a desert that breaks all the rules and proudly holds the title of 'The World’s Smallest Desert'. The Red Desert is home to archaeological artefacts dating back millions of years scattered across the sand. These include stone tools from the rare Sangoan culture, making this area one of only a handful of such sites in South Africa.

Distance from Durban: Port Edward is roughly an hour and 50 minutes from Durban.

Accommodation: Book here.

If you’re craving an escape from city life and a chance to reconnect with nature, PheZulu Safari Park in Botha’s Hill, a small town just outside Hillcrest, offers the perfect retreat.

The park features a scenic one-hour game drive through the Valley of a Thousand Hills. Visitors can also explore the PheZulu Reptile Park, home to crocodiles, snakes, and tortoises, or immerse themselves in local heritage with a traditional Zulu dance performance and a guided cultural village tour.

Distance from Durban: PheZulu Safari Park is approximately 38 minutes (37.7 km) from Durban.

Accommodation: Book here.

eMkhomazi, also known as Umkomaas, is a small coastal town on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal. If you happen to have an interesting desire (which may sound a little judgmental, but who am I to judge) to go swimming or even cage diving with sharks, this is the place to do it.

Aliwal Dive Centre was one of the very first dive charter operations in Umkomaas, established in 1995. They offer shark cage diving and snorkeling, with a team that collectively has over 66 years of experience in diving and shark encounters. Reef dives are also available, and if you find yourself wanting to make this more than a once-off thrill, they offer a diving school to help you get certified.

If you prefer to keep your feet firmly on dry land, the Umkomaas Golf Course offers 18 holes with sweeping ocean views, perfect for watching others live out their 'Little Mermaid moment' in the sea.

Distance from Durban: Ideal for a quick day trip, eMkhomazi is just 38 minutes (50.4 km) from Durban.

Accommodation: Book here.

Situated just south of the Mpambanyoni River mouth, Scottburgh is a laid-back coastal town known for its golden beaches and family-friendly vibe. Ideal for swimming, surfing, and diving, it’s a seaside escape suited to all ages.

If you’re on the hunt (no pun intended… okay, maybe a little) for something a bit more snappy, the Crocworld Conservation Centre is a must-visit. From crocodile feedings to snakes, birds, and a charming animal farm, there’s plenty to see, so don’t forget your camera.

Distance from Durban: Scottburgh is just 59 km (about a 44-minute drive) from Durban, making it perfect for a relaxed day trip.

Accommodation: Book here.

Howick is a town that plays an important role in South Africa’s history and enduring legacy. It is home to the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, where a striking sculpture and Visitor Centre mark the spot near which Nelson Mandela was arrested at a police roadblock in 1962 – his final moment of freedom before 27 years of imprisonment.

Howick is also renowned for the breathtaking Howick Falls, a must-visit for nature lovers who enjoy hiking, exploration, and experiencing the country’s natural beauty.

Distance from Durban: Howick is approximately 99 km from Durban, with a travel time of around 1 hour and 15 minutes by car.

Accomodation: Book here.

Imagine this: the sun dipping toward the horizon, ocean waves as your soundtrack, the wind in your hair, and your mode of transport? A horse. On the beach. Can it get any better?

Amanzimtoti is a popular coastal town and holiday destination in KwaZulu-Natal, known for its laid-back charm and golden beaches. These shores are perfect for recreational beach horse rides, offered by operators such as Garys Beach Rides, where guests are accompanied by an expert guide for a safe and unforgettable experience.

Travelling with kids? Splash Water World is a must-visit family favourite, boasting 10 different water slides suitable for all ages. There are also braai facilities on site, because water slides and a braai? Honestly, who could say no?

Distance from Durban: Amanzimtoti is just 27 km south of Durban.

Accomodation: Book here.