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

It’s the first of two consecutive long weekends, so there’s no excuse to stay indoors!  And KZN is delivering with theatre, markets, comedy, music and more! Here’s your no-fuss guide to what’s happening across KZN. Reintroductions Art Exhibition  Date: From Friday, 24 April  Times: Opens 6pm, runs for a month Venue: Art-ists Collective, 3 Southampton Street, Point Cost: Free A fresh group exhibition featuring local and visiting artists — expect bold, contemporary work and a strong sense of Durban’s creative community. Instagram: artistscollectivezaReintroductions, a group exhibition at Art-ists Collective A Woman Apart (Theatre) Dates: Friday, 24 – Sunday, 26 April Times: Various (3pm | 4pm | 7:30pm) Venue: Seabrooke's Theatre, 255 St Thomas Rd, Musgrave Cost: R150 via WhatsApp 069 433 9728 A powerful one-woman drama starring Kajal Maharaj, blending live performance with AI and video elements. Intimate, thought-provoking, and not your average theatre night. Instagram: kajalmaharajshriaA Woman Apart, starring Kajal Maharaj Comedy Games (Improv Night)  Date: Friday, 24 April Time: 7:30pm Venue: Rhumbelow Theatre Northlands Bowling Club, 50 Margaret Maytom Ave, Durban North Cost: R180 via Webtickets or 082 499 8636 Fast, funny, and completely unscripted, this improv show turns audience suggestions into pure chaos (in the best way). Facebook: Rhumbelow Theatre - NorthlandsComedy Games on at Rhumbelow Theatre Northlands Bowling Club Andre the Hilarious Hypnotist Dates

If you’ve been looking for a reason to swap your city plans for the bush, this might be it. One of Africa’s most endangered - and most fascinating - predators has just returned to a KwaZulu-Natal game reserve, giving wildlife lovers a rare chance to see something truly special in the wild. A newly established pack of African wild dogs has been introduced to Zimanga Private Game Reserve, making some significant strides in the conservation of ‘The Painted Wolf’. Why this matters African wild dogs aren’t just rare; they’re critically endangered, with fragmented populations across the continent. Spotting them in the wild is the kind of once-in-a-lifetime experience that serious safari-goers dream about. “With a lack of safe space as the key limiting factor, African wild dogs are no longer biologically independent; they are logistically dependent assets that require active life support,” explains Eugene Greyling, Carnivore Conservation Field Officer at Endangered Wildlife Trust. This new pack - two females and one male - forms part of a carefully managed national conservation effort led by various organisations, including Endangered Wildlife Trust and Wildlife ACT. This strategic movement between reserves keeps populations healthy, prevents inbreeding, and grows their numbers across the country. Without intervention, these animals simply wouldn’t survive long-term. Why Zimanga is the perfect spot Set in northern KZN, Zimanga Private Game Reserve is known for its stron

The stress of arriving at the airport only to remember your passport is in your bedside table at home is almost over. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), you could soon only head to the airport with nothing but your phone…well and your clothes, of course. No passport, no boarding pass, no paperwork.  In a series of international Proofs of Concept (PoCs), airlines, airports, and governments tested how digital identities stored on smartphones could replace traditional travel documents. These global trials have shown that contactless, biometric-enabled travel is working well in real-world conditions.  Instead of repeatedly showing your passport at every checkpoint, travellers used: Digital ID stored in mobile wallets Facial recognition and biometric verification Pre-shared identity data before arriving at the airport Why it matters for travellers For South Africans heading through busy hubs like OR Tambo International Airport or King Shaka International Airport, this could mean: Shorter queues Fewer document checks Faster processing through security and immigration A smoother overall travel experience Passengers in the trials were even able to complete parts of their journey before leaving home, with identity checks done in advance. These systems worked across multiple countries, airlines, and digital platforms. Travellers used a mix of global and national digital wallets — including Apple Wallet and Google Wallet IDs, as well as country-specific

The 4th edition of Ocean Festival is returning to Scottburgh on the KZN South Coast, and this time it’s going to be a long weekend escape! Running from 1 to 3 May 2026, with most of the action taking place at Scottburgh Main Beach and the Premier Hotel Cutty Sark, this is the most exciting Ocean Festival programme yet.  The three-day coastal celebration that promotes ocean health through a combination of water sports, wellness, live music, film viewings, and conservation-focused experiences… all with that laid-back KZN South Coast energy. Programme of events this year Friday, 1 May Kick things off early with a sunrise run, then ease into the day with beachside coffee sessions, a mural reveal by local artist Giffy, and the always-fun Granny Grommets Bodyboard Session. The afternoon brings Schools Tag Team Surf Contest, ocean boat trips to explore the nearby Aliwal Shoal – a Marine Protected Area and Hope Spot – plus the Ocean Festival Lifesaving Carnival, before wrapping up with an open-air movie night at Premier Hotel Cutty Sark.  Saturday, 2 May This is a full day of action anchored by the Ocean Festival Surf Pro, alongside beach Pilates, conservation Conversation Talks, and more ocean-based experiences. As the sun sets, the energy shifts to a live music evening at Premier Hotel Cutty Sark.  Sunday, 3 May Slow things down with sunrise yoga, then catch one of the weekend’s standout events - the Leatherback Rum Aliwal Shoal Surfski Challenge, drawing top paddlers from across t

If your idea of a great morning includes pounding pavements with a well-deserved medal at the finish line, Durban’s upcoming race calendar is about to deliver. Whether you’re a world-class marathon runner or a casual jogger with a marathon bucket list, there’s a race for you in Durban.  1. The Durban International Marathon First up, the Durban International Marathon returns on 3 May 2026, and it’s shaping up to be bigger than ever. Following a record-breaking turnout of over 6,200 finishers last year, organisers are gearing up for an even more electric race day. Runners can choose between the 42km full marathon or a more accessible 10km race, both set along Durban’s scenic coastline. With a growing reputation on the global running circuit and a competitive prize purse attracting elite athletes, this is one for seasoned marathoners and those chasing a new personal best. 2. The Comrades Marathon No KZN running calendar is complete without the legendary Comrades Marathon, taking place on 14 June 2026. This year’s Up Run will see participants tackle an approximately 87km route from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, with a strict 12-hour cut-off. It’s one of the world’s most iconic ultramarathons, and arguably its toughest, drawing athletes from across the globe. Entries come with strict qualifying criteria, with runners needing to submit their qualifying details by 4 May 2026. 3. The SPAR Durban Challenge There’s also the much-loved SPAR Women’s Challenge Durban on 28 June 2026, now in

Skaters young and old, from groms to professionals, now have a new spot to practice their moves with the launch of The Lot Skatepark in Ballito.  This is a fresh, community-driven space set in the Ballito Junction Regional Mall, built around one core idea: making skateboarding accessible and fun.   This is the ideal space for: Beginners can build confidence in a safe environment Kids and teens can learn new skills through structured coaching Experienced riders can push their limits during open sessions Families and friends can connect through something active and different With a strong focus on progression, the park offers hands-on support, coaching, and an inviting atmosphere that encourages everyone to give it a go. What you can do at The Lot Whether you’re just starting out or already comfortable on a board, there’s something for every level:  Open skate sessions for more experienced riders Group lessons (beginner, intermediate, and adult) Private coaching for focused skill-building Birthday parties and private hire for a unique celebration Mobile skatepark experiences that can be brought to schools or events There’s even a fully stocked skate shop on-site, so you can gear up without leaving the park. The bigger vision is to grow this into one of South Africa’s most exciting skate communities, right on the KZN North Coast. View this post on Instagram A post shared by heath (@saint_sinjin) What you need to know  Location: Ballito Junction Mall, Leono

Tucked deep in the misty folds of the Karkloof is the beautiful Benvie Garden, which honestly feels like stepping into another world. Towering trees, dappled light, birdsong echoing through forest and lawn. It is the kind of place you plan to visit for an hour and somehow stay all afternoon. What is Benvie Garden? Established in 1882 by cabinet maker and tree enthusiast John Geekie, this 30-hectare arboretum has been nurtured by six generations of the same family. John and Jenny Robinson are currently the custodians of Benvie on behalf of the Geekie family. What began as a dream to recreate a Scottish garden in the Midlands has grown into one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most celebrated botanical sanctuaries. Designed as a circular walk, the garden guides you beneath a dramatic canopy of exotic trees sourced from around the world. Seeds once travelled by ship to Durban Harbour, by rail to Merrivale, and finally by ox wagon to the farm Nooitgedacht. Today, those trees stand tall, some over a century old. Alongside the floral beauty, Benvie is a paradise for birders. The garden and surrounding mistbelt forest are home to Cape Parrots, Orange Ground Thrushes, Knysna Turacos, White Starred Robins and Olive Woodpeckers. Follow the stream into the forest, and you might spot Narina Trogons or Forest Buzzards. What you need to know Where: D583, off Karkloof Road or York Road, Natal Midlands When: Spring brings azaleas, Azalea Mollis and clivias in full show. October belongs to t

If you’ve recently received a traffic fine via email or SMS, take a second look as it could be a scam. The Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA) is warning motorists about a surge in fake AARTO fine notifications, with fraudsters targeting unsuspecting drivers across the country. How the scam works You receive an SMS or email about an outstanding traffic violation. These messages often look convincing, but there are a few red flags: Threats that your licence will be blocked if you don’t pay urgently ‘Discounted’ fines (often 50% off) if paid immediately Links directing you to unofficial payment websites Here’s the key detail many scammers are banking on: The Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Act (AARTO) system has not yet been fully implemented nationwide. That means that traffic fines are not officially issued via email or SMS, but rather, legitimate notices are still served in person or via registered mail. If you receive a digital fine demanding urgent payment, double-check it before paying.  (This is not to say you shouldn’t pay fines, just ensure it’s a legitimate fine first!) How to verify a traffic fine Never click on links or make payments unless you’ve verified the fine directly. If you’re unsure whether a fine is legitimate, always check through official channels: Website: aarto.gov.za AARTO Call Centre: 086 122 7861 KZN tackles road safety  This warning comes at a time when authorities are tightening road safety across the province. Th

This Sunday, Durban’s streets will be the backdrop for a high-speed spectacle as the annual Tour Durban returns, bringing a fresh format. Thousands of cyclists are expected to descend on Durban North for one of the city’s most popular road races, with entries still pouring in from across KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. This year’s field is looking incredibly competitive with some of South Africa’s top riders lining up, including defending contender Josh Rheeders, who will be looking to go one better after narrowly missing out last year. He’s set to face tough competition from competitors like Daniyal Matthews, Scott Blount and rising KZN talent David Shelly.  Adding to the excitement, Cycling South Africa is backing the event with an unofficial National Inter-Club Challenge, giving teams across the country a chance to battle it out for bragging rights. There are lots of local KZN teams in the mix, but Team Siata, who have been a prominent force at the event, are favoured to take the team title with a young squad that includes Nyakallo Sekhethela, Muhammad Fortune, Ntsako Sarila, ZamaJibhela Mazibuko and eSwatini junior national champion Sivuyile Gulwako.  What’s new this year? The 2026 race introduces a revamped format, making it easier than ever to catch the action. The elite races will include a lap-based format, designed to bring high-speed racing closer to spectators. Look out for: 6am: KZN Cycling Schools Road Series Final 6.30am: Recreational Ride (perfect for social cyclist

April in KwaZulu-Natal is usually when the province eases into milder autumn days, but it’s also a month that can turn volatile. The devastating April 2022 Durban floods are a stark reminder of just how destructive conditions can become when severe weather systems take hold. As the Easter period winds down, residents and holidaymakers are being urged to stay alert as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) issues a Level 2 warning for eThekwini and a more serious Level 4 warning for northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal. Also read: KZN experiences second tornado in two years…but sunny skies on the horizon What to expect For Durban and surrounding areas, the Level 2 warning signals potentially disruptive weather, including: Heavy downpours Strong, damaging winds Intense lightning and possible hail Localised flooding and dangerous driving conditions Further north - including areas like Newcastle, Vryheid, Ladysmith and Jozini - the Level 4 warning indicates a significantly higher risk, with the potential for: Widespread flooding of roads, bridges, and settlements Structural damage from hail and strong winds Increased fire risk due to lightning strikes Major travel disruptions across key routes The unstable weather is being driven by a combination of a high-pressure system moving over the east and a developing cut-off low inland, known for producing intense storm activity. Tips for keeping safe  eThekwini Municipality has confirmed that disaster management teams and emergency ser

If you’re planning a getaway to Durban this May, just a quick heads up – uShaka’s Wet ‘n Wild will be temporarily closing part of its offering for a short period. The park’s popular Wet ‘n Wild Waterpark will be closed from 4 May to 23 May 2026 for essential maintenance and upgrades. The work is scheduled during the quieter, low-season period and will focus on key attractions, including some of the park’s biggest slides and pool resurfacing. The good news? The rest of uShaka remains open! You can still enjoy: Sea World – Africa’s largest aquarium with a variety of marine life.  Kids World – Haven for kids aged 2 to 12 years.  Chimp & Zee - Rope adventure park with the longest continuous belay* system in Africa! Dangerous Creatures – Home to the world’s most venomous snakes Durban is still open for play Even better news for holidaymakers: all of Durban’s beaches remain open and safe for swimming, making it the perfect time to swap water slides for ocean dips. And when it comes to Durban, winter still means warm water ocean swimming.  From the Golden Mile to uMhlanga’s iconic promenade, the coastline is always buzzing with activity. You can stop by a beachfront café, hire a bike for a ride along the promenade, or enjoy a long, lazy lunch by the sea. If you’re keen to mix things up, there’s no shortage of nearby adventures: KZN North Coast: Boutique shopping, tidal pools, and laid-back beach towns like Ballito and Umhlanga. KZN South Coast: Golfing, family-friendly beaches, a

Set along the fast-growing Upper Highway corridor in KwaZulu-Natal, Westown is emerging as one of South Africa’s most exciting mixed-use developments, built around the increasingly popular ‘15-minute neighbourhood’ concept. This is premised on the idea that everything you need, from coffee shops to healthcare, is just a short walk away. Part of a massive R15 billion investment, Westown is being developed into a fully integrated urban node where people can live, work, shop, and unwind in one place. This forms part of the larger Shongweni Urban Development, with long-term plans to create over 23,000 jobs and reshape the economic landscape of Durban’s Outer West. At the heart of it all is Westown Square, a high-street-style retail and lifestyle destination that’s already drawing crowds with its blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment. But this is just the beginning. The broader vision includes residential estates, healthcare facilities, green spaces, and business hubs, all connected within a carefully planned environment designed to reduce travel time and enhance everyday convenience. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Westown Shongweni (@westown_shongweni) Why investors are rushing in The latest buzz comes from Kaleido, a new residential development within Westown, where more than half of the available homes sold within just three hours of launch. This follows Westown’s first residential development, Shongweni Eco-Park, which launched in