Little girl with Santa Claus near Christmas tree in room
Liudmila Chernetska | Little girl with Santa Claus
Liudmila Chernetska

Where to see Santa Claus in Durban

Ho, ho, ho! Santa's on a Durban adventure and here's where you can spot him!

Amy Fraser
Advertising

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The lights are twinkling, sunsets linger a little longer, beach days sneak between the festive chaos, everyone’s a bit more relaxed, and Christmas is right around the corner.

But before we get too carried away with the holiday cheer, a quick shout-out to the real MVPs of the season: parents. Often overshadowed by the jolly man who shows up once a year, you’re the ones creating the true magic. From Elf on the Shelf antics and advent calendars to cookie decorating, festive movies, and strategically placed snacks for Santa, trust me, as a 27-year-old, these are the moments that stick. They’re the memories that make the season unforgettable and keep the wonder alive.

And now, without further ado, here’s your ultimate guide to spotting Santa Claus in Durban. Snap a photo, wish yourself a little luck, and get ready for your child’s heart-melting Christmas list – because we all know who’s really buying those gifts (the elves, of course!).

While you're in the shopping mood, check out our list of the best places to thrift, bargain hunt and shop in Durban!

TIME OUT RECOMMENDS:

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

Where to see Santa Claus in Durban

1. Durban Botanic Gardens

For the ninth year in a row, the Durban Botanic Gardens Trail of Lights is back from 5 December to 3 January, and it’s bursting with festive magic! The event is set to welcome none other than Santa Claus himself, along with a dazzling line-up of activities including live entertainment, Santa’s Workshop, ziplining, and an array of delicious festive treats. 

Cost: Entry fee starts from R85 per person. Photos with Santa are an additional cost, priced at R80 for a digital print or R100 for a printed copy.

Address: Durban Botanic Gardens, John Zikhali Road

2. Gateway Theatre Of Shopping

From 12 to 24 December, Santa will be touching down with his sleigh at Gateway. Guests hoping to capture a festive photo can find him at Entrance 2 on the Ground Floor, near Game, where he will be available daily between 10am and 4pm. 

Cost: Free, as all photos are taken with your phone.

Address: 1 Palm Boulevard, Umhlanga Ridge 

Advertising

3. Galleria Mall

Whether you’ve been naughty or nice this year, get ready because Galleria Mall is hosting Santa Claus and the Grinch himself from 8 to 24 December, daily from 10am to 6pm.

Cost for a photo with Santa:
• A6: R50
• A5: R80
• A4: R100

Cost for a photo with the Grinch:
• A6: R40
• A5: R60
• A4: R80

Address: Cnr Moss Kolnik & Arbour Road, Amanzimtoti

4. The Pavilion

The Pavilion Shopping Centre is decking the halls and rolling out the red carpet as Santa makes his grand arrival from 11 to 24 December, daily from 9am to 7pm on the cinema level. And remember, he knows if you’ve been naughty or nice… so it’s best to stay on the good list!

Cost: Image packages range from R85 to R230, depending on the size and combo selected.

Address: Jack Martens Dr, Dawncliffe, Westville

Advertising

5. La Lucia Mall

Sjoe, Santa is a busy guy! From 12 to 24 December, he’ll be making a pit stop at Lucia Mall from 10am to 4pm, ready to hear all about your Christmas wishlist. You can find him at Entrance 1 near Pick n Pay.
Cost: R100 for an A5 photo.

Address: 90 William Campbell Dr, La Lucia, uMhlanga

6. The Workshop Shopping Centre

From rocking around the Christmas tree to capturing that perfect moment with Santa, The Workshop Shopping Centre is dialling up the holiday magic. Guests can enjoy live music and Santa photos from 17 to 24 December, between 10am and 2pm.

Cost: Free

Address: 99 Samora Machel (Aliwal) Street

Recommended
    You may also like
    You may also like
    Advertising