Lauren Anthony

Can you feel it? It is here! While the World Cup didn’t get off to a sterling start for South Africa as we, once again, played Mexico in the opener (we miss you Shabalala!) that 2010 buzz is resonating as football fever takes hold. The only question now is: Where to watch? Your couch at home is fine… but, let’s be honest, football is always better with a crowd! Fortunately, Durban has you sorted.  From beach bars and buzzing pubs to cosy Midlands firesides, here’s where you can catch every goal, upset and dramatic penalty shootout from 11 June to 19 July. This guide was written by Lauren Anthony, a KwaZulu-Natal-based lifestyle writer. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

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

If you’re planning a trip but only just realised you need to renew or apply for a passport – no worries! The hassle of travel has just been eased with the latest announcement from South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs. The department is upgrading its online booking system to modernise public services and remove some of the frustrating roadblocks that have plagued passport and ID applications. While digitised systems have been welcomed, one of the complaints from South Africans is the struggle to secure appointments at Home Affairs branches. Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber, explains, "For too long, ordinary South Africans were disadvantaged by criminals who exploited weaknesses in the previous booking system to hoard appointment slots and sell them for profit.” Now, the department has introduced a more secure system designed to protect legitimate users and improve access. The upgraded platform, now integrated into the MyHomeAffairsOnline system, requires you to create a verified profile linked to your South African ID number and email address before making a booking.  Whether you're renewing a passport ahead of an international getaway, applying for travel documents for the family, or finally ticking that dream destination off your bucket list, this more efficient booking process removes one of the biggest administrative headaches. The upgrade also forms part of Home Affairs’ wider digital transformation efforts, with public-private collaborations and tech upgrades ai

Saturday’s cold snap reminded us that there actually is such a thing as winter in Durban. It also brought with it the much-anticipated global phenomenon – the annual Sardine Run.  Wayne Harrison, the KZN Sharks Board spokesperson, reported that there had been netting at Port Edward early on Saturday morning, although anglers were battling against rough sea conditions to make the catch.  “There are a lot of dolphins around, gannets and terns, even the bronze whaler sharks were breaching out of the water this morning – so the Sardine Run is officially on!” Speaking to Time Out Durban on Monday morning, Harrison added that while it was still quiet, things were looking promising for the Sardine Run on the KZN South Coast. “I’m sitting at Umtentweni, and the surf size has dropped off completely. It’s much better conditions for netting today with the southwesterly wind getting up to about 40km/h.” “Yesterday (Sunday), there was activity off Port Edward, St Michael’s and Shelly Beach with a small amount netted at Port Edward. Things are looking good, though, for today.” Beachgoers are urged to exercise caution, with sharks tracking the sardine shoals at the moment. He noted: “Swimmers must bathe with discretion and check up with the lifeguards before getting into the water.” Also read: The world’s biggest biomass migration is about to happen on the KZN South Coast What is the Sardine Run? Every winter, between June and July, billions of sardines migrate north along South Africa's ea

9th Avenue Marina was officially named Best Restaurant in Durban 2026 at the 3rd annual South Africa Restaurant Awards, reaffirming its status as one of the city’s most celebrated culinary destinations. From luxury fine dining institutions to beloved neighbourhood favourites, the awards spotlight the resilience and creativity of South Africa’s hospitality industry, with Durban firmly in the national conversation.  For 9th Avenue Marina, the win marks a defining moment in a long and layered journey. A Durban dining institution 9th Avenue has been a celebrated part of Durban’s culinary landscape for over 25 years. Starting in Morningside, the restaurant quickly earned a reputation as one of Durban’s most respected fine dining destinations, continuing this tradition at its Durban Waterfront location. Ownership has evolved, with each custodian adding to its legacy.  Under its current leadership, the restaurant has taken a considered approach to evolution rather than reinvention. “Our approach has been to preserve the essence of what made 9th Avenue so beloved while introducing our own creative influences,” says Liyana Tembe, Director of 9th Avenue Marina. Instagram: 9thavenuemarina9th Avenue Marina An evolving legacy Since taking over operations, the team has introduced refined menu updates, including seafood-forward dishes that reflect Durban’s coastal identity and the return of favourites such as selected pasta dishes. But one of the standout innovations has been the restaura

If winter in KZN had a colour palette, it would be fiery reds, oranges and sunburst yellows! This display of natural warmth will take centre stage at the Ashburton Aloe Festival on Saturday, 4 and Sunday, 5 July from 9am to 4pm.  This four-venue celebration of biodiversity and conservation invites you to enjoy a scenic meander within the Lower Mpushini Valley Conservancy. One ticket unlocks all four sites, giving you access to nature walks, local stalls, talks, food and family-friendly activities. One of the most popular stops is Impala Bend (Venue D), where Keith Brown will once again host Wildlife Feeding Time at 3.30pm on both days. Brown, who has played an active role in conservation efforts across the Lower Mpushini Valley for years, is well known for his hands-on involvement in anti-poaching awareness and wildlife protection. “This festival is about more than aloes in bloom,” says Brown. “It’s about connecting people to the land, to conservation, and to the incredible biodiversity we’re lucky to still have here in the Midlands.” Facebook: Ashburton Aloe FestivalImpala Bend at the Ashburton Aloe Festival You can also expect a packed conservation-inspired programme across the weekend, including:  Snake demonstrations Anti-poaching K9 displays Guided nature walks and talks Local arts and crafts Great refreshments Plant and aloe sales from Rocky Wonder Aloe Nursery (with special festival discounts) The Ashburton Aloe Festival marks its 20th birthday this year, continuin

Durban's tourism industry rolled out the red carpet this week as the city's biggest success stories were celebrated at the 5th Durban Tourism Business Awards. Themed Sapphire Elegance: Destination Pride and a Celebration of Durban's Tourism Excellence, the event marked a significant milestone for the programme. Hosted at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, the annual awards honoured businesses, entrepreneurs, and tourism personalities helping to put Durban on the map as one of South Africa's most exciting destinations. Durban's tourism sector showed up, with a record-breaking 401 entries received this year. Of those, 199 progressed to the adjudication stage. Speaking at the ceremony, Mayor Cyril Xaba praised the industry for its role in driving economic growth and creating jobs across the city: "The Durban Tourism Business Awards celebrate the businesses and individuals whose hard work, creativity and commitment continue to elevate Durban's tourism offering.” Notable award winners Among the night's big winners were Hollywoodbets Durban July, which took top honours in the Event Owners and Promoters category, while Durban favourite The Oyster Box secured two awards for Accommodation Hotel and Meetings, Exhibitions and Special Events. Other notable winners included Shongweni Farmers Market for Green Tourism, Phezulu Safari Park for Visitor Experience, and Travel Bug Tours & Safaris for Tour Operator of the Year. Exceptional achievement award winne

We've all spent time hunting down the perfect gift, only to fail when it comes to the gift wrapping itself. Either we find a reusable gift back, or wrap it in tacky paper that’s immediately tossed. An innovative new partnership aims to change the wrapping into part of the present itself! Gateway Theatre of Shopping in uMhlanga has unveiled From Art With Love, a year-long collaboration with Durban fashion designer Kathrin Kidger that transforms gift wrapping from an afterthought into an artform.  Available at Gateway's Gifting Concierge on Level 2, near Starbucks, the exclusive collection features limited-edition reusable fabric wraps designed to make gifting feel a little more special, and a lot more sustainable. Wrapping that’s worth keeping Instead of traditional paper, shoppers can choose from a range of vibrant fabric wraps that can be reused long after the gift has been opened. The collection is housed within a specially curated gifting space designed by Kidger herself, with options including bold prints, bright colours and inspired designs. Once the present has been unwrapped, the fabric can live on as a scarf, decorative accessory, keepsake or even be reused for another gift. Gateway Theatre of ShoppingDurban fashion designer Kathrin Kidger Known for her commitment to local craftsmanship and slow fashion principles, Kidger's involvement brings an artistic edge to what is often one of the most overlooked parts of gifting. The fabrics reflect her signature aesthetic: c

If you’re stumped on how to celebrate Father’s Day on Sunday, 21 2026 – the Midlands Motor Show has you covered! Returning to Stockowners Outdoor Park (Tweedie offramp near Howick in KwaZulu-Natal), the motor show brings more than 100 incredible vehicles for a family-friendly celebration of all things motoring.  Visitors can check out: Vintage and classic car displays Motorcycles and custom builds Live music throughout the day Market stalls and local vendors Craft beer and drinks Delicious food trucks and coffee vendors A dedicated kids' zone Pet-friendly spaces From beautifully restored vintage classics and custom-built bikes to modern performance machines, visitors can spend the day admiring some of the region's most impressive automotive displays while enjoying live music, great food, market stalls and a relaxed countryside atmosphere. And the really great news is that the event also supports the uMngeni SPCA, with every ticket purchased contributing towards animal welfare in the region. What you need to know Event: Midlands Motor Show 2026 Date: Sunday, 21 June 2026  Venue: Stockowners Outdoor Park, KZN Midlands Time: From 9am Tickets: R50 via Webtickets | R70 at the gate | Kids U12 free Pet-friendly: Yes Beneficiary: uMngeni SPCA Accomodation: Book here If you're still wondering what to do for Father's Day, this is an easy choice: classic cars, bikes, craft drinks, good food and a beautiful KZN Midlands setting. What more could dad ask for? TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 📍 T

There are trails… and then there is Zuka! An epic two-day run taking place from 21 to 23 August 2026 at Zuka Private Game Reserve. Set within the internationally renowned Munyawana Conservancy - home to world-famous reserves including Phinda Private Game Reserve and Zuka Private Game Reserve - this is one of the most spectacular wilderness areas in Africa and proudly brought to you by African Footprints Travel…the creators behind Beats in the Bush. For one weekend only, runners gain access to trails that wind through genuine Big 5 territory, crossing wild African bushveld where elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard roam free. There are no tar roads. No fence lines. No crowds. Just raw African wilderness and some of the most beautiful trail running imaginable. Tackling the run  The routes are challenging, rewarding and designed to showcase the very best of this remarkable wilderness area. Day 1: 20km Epic Route | 8km Scenic Route Day 2: 17km Epic Route | 7km Scenic Route  Every route is fully marked, professionally managed and supported by experienced marshals, medics and event crews. Rough race…but with a touch of luxury  What makes Zuka special is what happens when the running stops. After conquering the trails, you'll climb aboard an open safari vehicle and head out across one of KwaZulu-Natal's premier wildlife destinations for an unforgettable Big 5 game drive and beautiful sundowners.  You'll return to a beautiful safari lodge, incredible meals, live music and a w

The 57th Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill returns to Willard Beach in KwaDukuza from 4 to 18 July 2026 with its epic programme of world-class surfing, live music, beach fun, and extreme sports on the KZN North Coast. Themed Wave of Unity, this year’s festival draws inspiration from two major global sporting milestones: the 2026 World Cup and the 50th anniversary of the World Surf League (WSL) World Tour. “This year’s Ballito Pro celebrates the powerful connection between surfing, music, youth culture, and the ocean,” says festival organiser Collette Bundy. “The festival creates a unique space where people from all walks of life can come together on one of South Africa’s most iconic coastlines.” Hosted in KwaDukuza for a 17th consecutive year, the Ballito Pro has grown into one of the country’s biggest sporting and lifestyle festivals, attracting thousands of visitors to the region each winter. It also marks Stop No. 1 of the 2026 WSL Challenger Series, the pathway to the elite Championship Tour, and will see defending champion – Durban’s own Luke Thompson - return to compete on home waves. Instagram: theballitopro/Pierre Tostee2025 Ballito Pro winner Luke Thompson Beyond the surfing action, you can look forward to: Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona (free for both nights!) Corona Sunset Sessions Battle of the DJs Competition Extreme sports showcases, including skateboarding and BMX activations Surf & Turf celebrity events featuring surfers, soccer stars, and ru

In the build-up to one of South Africa’s most glamorous horse racing events, organisers have confirmed an impressive line-up of local music heavyweights, led by Durban’s very own Zakes Bantwini. The Grammy Award-winning artist will headline the Pulse Stage at Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse! "KZN, it's always good to be home!" said Bantwini. "I've got something special prepared for you at the Hollywoodbets Durban July. It's going to be a great one, hope to see you all there!" He’ll be joined by the chart-topping trio Mi Casa, rising singer-songwriters Will Rayz and Will Linley, Afro-pop sensation Angel Mazibuko, Motown-inspired supergroup Supreme 3, and electronic music veteran Tamara Dey. Will Linley says performing at the event is a childhood dream come true: "As a kid, I would always watch the race with my father, so it's pretty unreal to be a part of such an awesome event." Adding to the excitement, organisers recently announced that celebrated performer Anlia Etzebeth – wife of Springbok legend, Eben, will perform the national anthem before the big race. Also read: Saddle up! Durban July unveils ‘Country Allure’ as the 2026 theme Durban’s biggest day out Now celebrating its 130th running, the Hollywoodbets Durban July remains one of South Africa's most iconic social and sporting events.  Each year, more than 40,000 visitors descend on Durban for the spectacle, generating hundreds of millions of rand for the local economy and filling hotels, restaurants and tourism att

On Saturday, 27 June 2026, you can enjoy the day out in the sunshine with some live music, delicious food and a perfectly crafted gin cocktail at the much-loved Schweppes Durban Gin Festival taking place at Beachwood Country Club.  The event will bring together some of South Africa’s finest craft gin makers for an afternoon of great flavours, good vibes and live entertainment. Taking place on the sprawling lawns of one of this great Durban venue, the festival has earned a reputation as one of the country's premier gin events, attracting everyone from serious gin enthusiasts to groups of friends looking for a memorable winter outing. This year’s event promises another winning mix of premium gin tastings, food vendors and live performances, with South African music stars Kyle Deutsch and Sketchy Bongo leading the entertainment line-up. But the real stars of the show are, of course, the gins. Festival-goers will get the chance to discover a range of boutique distilleries from around the country, including Durban’s own Distillery 031 alongside craft producers such as 25 Degrees South, Avhashoni, Natif Gin, and Urbanature. The festival also plays an important role in supporting South Africa’s growing craft spirits industry, providing smaller distilleries with a valuable platform to showcase their products directly to consumers.  What you need to know  Event: Schweppes Durban Gin Festival 2026 Date: Saturday, 27 June 2026 Venue: Beachwood Country Club, Durban Time: Gates open at 1

Sometimes a story captures the public imagination in the most unexpected way.  What started as a missing coffee machine has turned into one of the most heartwarming stories to emerge from Durban this year, with South Africans rallying behind Hawks investigator Warrant Officer Karl Sander and helping raise more than R500,000 through an online crowdfunding campaign. Sander, a senior narcotics investigator with the KwaZulu-Natal Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), made headlines during testimony before the Madlanga Commission this week when he revealed that after his coffee machine disappeared from a police facility, he was accused of stealing it and subjected to a polygraph test.  Sander was not only exonerated through the polygraph, but his testimony struck a chord with the country when they learned the value of a simple cup of coffee for those in such demanding careers.   The testimony prompted Durban-based paramedic and emergency services personality Kyle van Reenen to launch a crowdfunding campaign with a goal of raising R5 000 to replace the stolen machine.   What happened next surprised everyone. More than just a coffee machine  The campaign quickly gained momentum, attracting donations from people across South Africa and pushing the total beyond R500,000 in just three days.  Sander’s integrity has become a beacon of hope for many South Africans. As one contributor commented:  “Thank you for being South Africa's HERO, we needed one. Sorry for everything