Lauren Anthony

Durban isn’t just a top holiday destination, it’s a pet-lover’s paradise too. From breezy beachfront cafés to countryside pubs with dedicated doggy menus, KZN offers plenty of spots where your furry companion is just as welcome as you are. So hook the leash, pack the treats, and plan a day trip with your favourite travel partner. Great food tastes even better when shared with someone who never judges your order and is always happy to see you. Basic etiquette While you may love and adore your pets, not everyone around you will feel the same. Being mindful and considerate of others sharing the space is essential. Most restaurants enforce a "leash-only" rule, so be sure to follow it at all times. Always clean up after your pet and remember to bring waste bags with you. But, without further ado, here are some of Durban and surrounds' paw-approved pitstops to raise the woof… 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

If you grew up in KZN, you’ve likely spent at least one childhood holiday riding horses, hiking, and swimming in streams found within the dramatic Drakensberg mountains. If not, then this is your sign to pack your bags and head for the hills, because the Drakensberg is unmatched in scenic beauty and outdoor fun! Speaking of packing, here’s a checklist to help you prepare for a one-day hike in the Drakensberg. Must-pack items: Water bottle Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes A warm jacket and waterproof clothing (mountain weather changes fast) Sunglasses First-aid kit Torch or headlamp, with extra batteries Nutritious snacks and meals to keep your energy up Navigation tools: a mobile GPS or compass, plus a map Power bank – better safe than sorry SPF Trekking pole(s) If you're camping overnight, add: Sleeping bag Toiletries Extra clothes and underwear – don’t forget thermals Tent and sleeping mat Plenty of food to last the duration of your trip Gas stove and necessary cooking accessories When is the best time to visit? It depends on what you’re looking for, but autumn (March–May) is generally the ideal time. During these months, temperatures are comfortably mild, skies are clear, rainfall is minimal, and the views are truly breathtaking. To make planning even easier, we’ve found a few Airbnbs near the Drakensberg that might be worth checking out. Click here to view. But without further ado, here are our top 10 reasons to visit the Berg (as we call it in KZN!): Time Out ma

When you think of Durban, what comes to mind? Golden beaches, warm weather, bold flavours? You wouldn’t be alone, and you wouldn’t be wrong. But this friendly coastal city has far more to offer than first meets the eye. From historic markets woven into the fabric of the city to Africa’s oldest surviving botanic garden, and local artists celebrating Durban’s rich biodiversity and ecosystems that make KwaZulu-Natal truly one-of-a-kind, there’s a deeper story just waiting to be discovered. And quite frankly, if Durban isn’t on your 'must-visit' list, seriously, what is wrong with you? And before you say it, no, we’re not being biased… well, maybe just a tiny bit. After all, we’ve got the official title to back us up: Durban was named one of Time Out’s Best Places to Travel in 2026. Whether you’re a curious local, a first-time visitor, or looking to impress at your next quiz night, here are 10 fun facts about Durban you might not know. 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

On Saturday, 6 June, Comrades legend Bruce Fordyce will be speaking at Piggly Wiggly Country Village, sharing insights just days before thousands of runners tackle the Ultimate Human Race. And fittingly, it will be hosted following the parkrun – an event he was instrumental in bringing to South Africa in 2011. What started as a handful of free community runs has since grown into more than 200 parkrun events across the country, helping thousands of South Africans discover a love for running. The long road of a legend Of course, Fordyce's legacy extends far beyond Saturday morning 5km runs! Fordyce won the Comrades Marathon a record nine times, including an astonishing eight consecutive victories between 1981 and 1988. He also claimed victory in the famous London to Brighton Ultramarathon three years in a row and held world records over 50 miles. His rise through the Comrades ranks is the stuff of running folklore. After finishing 43rd in his debut race in 1977, Fordyce steadily climbed the leaderboard before beginning his unprecedented winning streak just four years later. The 99th Comrades Marathon will be an ‘up run’ on Sunday, 14 June 2026, starting in Durban and finishing in Pietermaritzburg 12 hours after the official start. This talk will give runners and supporters the chance to hear directly from one of the race’s greatest champions.  Facebook: Bruce FordyceBruce Fordyce during the 1983 Comrades Marathon What you need to know Event: Bruce Fordyce Comrades Talk Date:

If it feels like everyone in Durban suddenly owns a padel racket, you’re not wrong! Padel has exploded across South Africa over the past few years, transforming from a niche sport into one of the country’s biggest lifestyle crazes. With Durban’s great year-round weather, it’s no surprise this has become one of the province’s fastest-growing sports.  And this weekend, it’s bringing the heat to Ballito.  The Karibu Pro Padel Festival takes place this weekend (5 to 7 June 2026) at Karibu Restaurant and Padel in Ballito, attracting some of South Africa’s top padel players for a high-energy weekend.  Alongside the top-class competition, visitors can look forward to live music, great food, and family-friendly fun. What’s the obsession with Padel? “What makes padel so unique is its ability to bring people back into a health and fitness environment while remaining highly social,” says Event Organiser Courtney Challis-Chandler.  “Whether you played squash, tennis, hockey, or soccer years ago, padel has given many people a platform to reconnect with sport in an accessible and enjoyable way.” That social side is a huge part of why Durban and Ballito have embraced it so quickly. Beyond the fun of the game, Padel is all about the post-game coffee and social community off the court.  “Karibu Padel is a family-friendly destination where people can enjoy a game of Padel, spend time fishing in the dam, share a meal, have a drink, and simply enjoy the outdoors. It truly offers something for ev

Big changes are planned for one of the KZN North Coast’s most familiar trading spots. The Tongaat Early Morning Market is getting a full refurbishment to improve safety and cleanliness while enhancing the overall shopping experience. While upgrades are underway, traders will temporarily relocate to the Parks Open Field at 1 Edmund Morewood Street in oThongathi, where trading will continue for approximately three months. The market will still operate on Saturdays only, from 6am to 1pm, keeping the early-morning ritual very much alive for regular shoppers. What’s changing at the market? The refurbishment is a fairly significant one, with the municipality stripping things back to rebuild and modernise key infrastructure. Upgrades include: Removal and safe disposal of the old asbestos roofing Installation of new roof structures and sheeting Repairs to rainwater drainage systems Plumbing upgrades General painting and maintenance works A boost for traders and shoppers According to Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Thembo Ntuli:  “The refurbishment of the Tongaat Early Morning Market will create a safer, cleaner, and more accessible trading environment for both traders and shoppers. These improvements will also enhance the appearance of the market and boost customer confidence in the facility,” said Councillor Ntuli. For many locals, the market is part of a weekly routine as well as an important community meeting point. It also plays a key

A day at the beach is the perfect way to relax and connect with friends and family, but it’s also something many of us take for granted. For many people living with disabilities, accessing public beaches remains incredibly difficult. Now, one determined Scottburgh local is changing that. Adaptive surfer and adventurer, Sue Martin, is leading a community-driven campaign to bring Scottburgh Main Beach its first all-terrain beach wheelchair. After launching the Scottburgh Beach Wheelchair Drive through BackaBuddy, Sue has already raised nearly the full R60 000 needed to purchase the specialist chair, with a small amount left to go towards final touches such as secure storage, paint and protective covers. “I’m ever thankful to everyone who has supported the campaign so far,” says Sue. “We are almost there and can’t wait to bring the wheelchair to Scottburgh Beach.” Promoting inclusivity for bathers She explains that Scottburgh Main Beach is keen to achieve Blue Flag Beach status, and inclusivity is a major part of that. While adaptive equipment is stored by the NPO, Made for More in Durban, as well as the Wheels on Waves sandcruisers at Amanzimtoti Beach, there’s nothing currently available on the KZN South Coast.  Once the wheelchair arrives, it will be available free of charge for anyone living with a disability to use at Scottburgh Main Beach. Visitors will simply swap an ID document for the chair during use, making it an easy and accessible community resource. “The beach whee

In the quaint village of Howick, a significant conservation effort is helping rewrite the future for hundreds of South Africa’s tortoises.  FreeMe Wildlife, one of KwaZulu-Natal’s best-known wildlife rehabilitation centres, has a long-running tortoise rehabilitation and release programme that’s tackling a surprisingly massive problem: the number of tortoises being kept illegally, injured, abandoned or removed from the wild. And the project is growing. Over the past nine years, FreeMe Wildlife has led a collaborative national initiative focused on the legal and responsible release of tortoises back into suitable wild habitats. Working alongside organisations - including Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, South African National Biodiversity Institute, the NSPCA, Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, The Bateleurs, and many more - the team has already completed multiple successful tortoise releases across the country. But getting a tortoise back into the wild is a lot more complicated than simply opening a gate. “Tortoises come into our care under various circumstances, including confiscations, surrenders, escaped pets, vehicle injuries and attacks by domestic animals,” explains FreeMe Wildlife Centre Manager Elishia Goosen. “Once they arrive, they go through a rigorous process that includes quarantine periods, regular health checks, DNA testing and veterinary clearance before any permits for release can even be considered.” Because of the growing demand, FreeMe Wildlife h

Durban’s market and foodies are in for a treat this May because the hugely popular Pavilion Night Market is officially making its return. On Saturday, 30 May, The Pavilion Shopping Centre will transform its undercover rooftop parking space into a buzzing after-hours market filled with local makers, live music, street food and laid-back weekend energy.  Running from 3pm to 10pm, the Pavilion Night Market has become one of Durban’s favourite evening events, drawing crowds looking for something a little different from the usual mall experience. Adding to the atmosphere is a live music line-up that’ll carry the evening from relaxed afternoon browsing into full night-market mode. Visitors can catch performances from acoustic soul-pop duo Second Note, Pietermaritzburg favourites Many Moore, and Durban-based folk and indie performer Zoe Wright, whose ukulele-driven sets have become a regular crowd-pleaser. The market will take place at the centre’s Undercover area, accessible via Entrance 5 and Entrance 6. Plus, entry is completely free! Whether you’re planning a casual date night, a family outing, a catch-up with friends or simply looking for an excuse to wander through food stalls with something warm in hand, this one-night-only event is worth adding to your Durban social calendar. Instagram: thepavilionsaPavilion Night Market What you need to know Event: Pavilion Night Market Date: Saturday, 30 May 2026 Time: 3pm to 10pm Venue: The Pavilion Shopping Centre Access: Entrance 5 o

The annual calendar highlight, the Horings & Dorings Hluhluwe Festival, returns to the farming town on 29 and 30 May 2026 at Zulu Croc. This proudly quirky Zululand festival is an entertaining country-style gathering that combines local music with farming culture, outdoor family fun, and incredible Hluhluwe flavour.  The name Horings & Dorings – translated to Horns and Thorns – sums up the region perfectly in that it’s exactly what is farmed here: pineapples and animals with horns! Horings & Dorings is an open-air festival that leans hard into its rural roots, with something for everyone. Great programme of events This year’s artist lineup includes popular South African performers like Andriëtte Norman, Gerhard Steyn, Liezel Pieters, Jan Rhaap, Prop, Zaan Sonnekus, Tamlyn Wessels, and Wynand & Chereé Strydom. But the entertainment goes way beyond the stage. Children will be kept entertained with inflatables and outdoor fun, with great competitions for festivalgoers: Pineapple planting competitions Beer-drinking relays Bokdrol spoeg contests (if you’re not sure what that is, best you go!) Mr & Mrs Ananas Wild West competitions The Hluhluwe Farm Jam for quads, dirt bikes and side-by-sides The event is family-friendly, with plenty of space to relax, dance, eat and soak up that unmistakable Zululand hospitality. Tables and chairs are supplied, although guests are welcome to bring their own camping chairs for maximum comfort. There will also be food vendors, a cash bar and card

In the thick of South Africa’s conservation battlefields, far from the comfort of our many visitor centres and game lodges, there’s an intense war being fought against poaching. On the frontline is Howick-born ranger and K9 specialist Nick Duranty (33), whose work spans some of the country’s most high-risk anti-poaching zones. Duranty has spent more than 15 years working across reserves - including Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands, Hluhluwe in KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape - supporting ranger teams and training K9.  “My work takes me wherever I’m needed,” he explains. “Whether that’s helping anti-poaching units on reserves, supporting conservation teams in the field, or assisting the police during operations.” Partnering with the non-profit organisation, Task Force Rhino, Duranty forms part of a growing network supporting rangers and reserves that are often under-resourced and overstretched. The organisation focuses on providing training, operational support, equipment, and K9 assistance to conservation teams on the ground. At the heart of Duranty’s work is his partnership with working dogs, a critical asset in modern anti-poaching operations: “I have dogs deployed in different areas across South Africa, but my own personal working dog is K9 Nitus. He is my partner, and we’ve been through a lot together. A good K9 can make an enormous difference in the field.” Facebook: Nick DurantyNick Duranty and K9 Nitus Also read: Here’s your chance to spot one of Africa’s rarest

If you’ve considered buying an electric vehicle (EV) but are worried about charging stations, we’ve got some great news. South Africa’s first off-grid, solar-powered EV charging network has launched along the busy N3 corridor, making Durban-bound road trips that much easier.  With another fuel hike looming and petrol prices continuing to squeeze holiday budgets, more South Africans have been turning to EVs as a practical long-term option. Recent AutoTrader data showed EV searches in South Africa jumped by 45% year-on-year between February and March 2026, while engagement surged by over 200%. A once futuristic vehicle is now becoming part of everyday life, with EVs appearing more frequently on KZN roads and dealership floors. The power behind the project The project has been developed by Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE) with backing from the Development Bank of Southern Africa through a R100 million investment. The first station, CHARGE N3 Roadside, officially launched at the Reitz Interchange (exit 107) in the Free State, while a second one CHARGE N3 Tugela at the Colenso - Winterton Interchange (Exit 207), opened in KwaZulu-Natal this week. With Durban a prime spot for beach holidays, KZN Midlands weekends, business trips or family getaways, the N3 positioning couldn’t be better! “By building off-grid EV charging infrastructure along key transport corridors like the N3, we are reducing dependence on volatile fuel prices while creating greater energy and transport cost stability o

If wedding bells are in your future, you’re going to want to head to the KZN Midlands this Sunday (24 May 2026) for the Brahman Hills Bridal Expo. Undeniably the province’s wedding capital, it’s fitting that the bridal expo – featuring top wedding suppliers, creatives and planners – is hosted in the KZN Midlands.  “Couples want a wedding that reflects who they are, but they also want the confidence that every part of the experience will be handled with excellence,” says Brahman Hills Director and wedding expert, Onwaba Gonyora. “The Brahman Hills Bridal Expo brings those two things together. It gives couples access to trusted specialists, practical guidance and a setting where they can begin shaping a day that’s as seamless as it is meaningful.” What (and who) you can expect Dreamy décor Elegant wedding gowns Delicious wedding cakes Experienced photographers Groovy DJs Entertainment specialists  Wedding experts  Photographers Celebrants Florists Gifting specialists Event stylists …all in one of the KZN Midlands' most sought-after wedding venues. Brahman Hills is also a top lifestyle destination, known for its beautiful gardens, luxury accommodation, spa experiences and sweeping countryside views.  Even if you’re not planning a wedding, the setting alone is worth the drive. It’s also making headlines for another reason: construction is currently underway on what is expected to become the world’s largest labyrinth. The enormous 22-hectare Serenity Garden development will incl

Durban’s surfers are among the world’s best, and local longboarder, Christy Gilmour (25), is proving this by qualifying for the prestigious World Longboard Tour and the ISA World Longboard Championships. For the Durban surfer, the moment was emotional and years in the making. Recalling the moment she won the World Surf League Africa Longboard Qualifying Series 1000 at the Surf Emporium SA Longboard Championship at Jeffreys Bay earlier this month, she said: “Wow, I was definitely nervous, but I knew I just needed one more wave and to do everything I could on that wave to get the score I needed.” Now, she’s preparing to take on some of the world’s best surfers across four international tour stops spanning California, Australia, the Philippines and El Salvador. Christy’s World Longboard Tour Schedule Huntington, California: 25 to 29 July 2026 Bells Beach, Australia: 25 to 29 November 2026 La Union, Philippines: 20 to 24 January 2027 El Sunzal, El Salvador: 13 to 21 March 2027 She has also qualified for the ISA World Longboard Championships in El Salvador from 13 to 19 November 2026.  But while qualifying is a massive achievement, competing on the international circuit comes at a cost. Gilmour estimates she will need to raise between R400 000 and R450 000 to compete across the self-funded tour. Supplied / Kody McGregorChristy Gilmour of South Africa surfs in the Final at the Surf Emporium SA Longboard Championship on May 2, 2026 at Jeffreys Bay, Eastern Cape, South Africa A D

The much-loved uMhlanga Viewing Deck at the end of the promenade has officially reopened, restoring one of Durban’s most photographed coastal lookout points after it was badly damaged in a fire in 2022.  eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Director, Mandla Nsele, said, “The City can confirm that the repair and reinstatement of the uMhlanga viewing deck were completed over a period of two months. The total cost incurred for the repair of the deck amounts to R650 000.” “During the reinstatement process, the Coastal Engineering team experienced challenges related to the extent of damage. Notably, more sandbags had been burnt than initially anticipated, which resulted in a slight increase in project costs,” he said. For regular promenade walkers and sunrise chasers who have missed the deck, the structure remains unchanged in footprint, although safety measures have been implemented.  “The deck has been reinstated to its original size and dimensions, with no expansion or reduction,” Nsele confirmed. “No fire-retardant coating has been applied to the deck. However, the relevant authorities have installed a fire hose and hydrant near the site to enhance fire response capability.” Why uMhlanga is a top coastal escape With its polished promenade and beautiful beaches, uMhlanga continues to hold its place as one of the province’s premier tourism hotspots. Whether you’re in town for a weekend staycation or visiting from further away, there’s lots to do in Umhl