Amanzimtoti is just over 20kms south of Durban centre and is an attractive nature resort. The Amanzimtoti Bird sanctuary features a captivating self-guided trail, which winds through the forest. There are three hides from which you can see many of the 150 species of bird which visit the large expanse of open water in the sanctuary. You don't have to be serious about birds as the sanctuary offers a very scenic day out, but they do add their own happy music to the environment.
A large, modern, motor driven Catamaran with a 60 person capacity. Hakuna Matata Charters take regular one and a half hour trips into Durban harbor and out to sea, along the north coast. Hakuna Matata is also available for charters. An exciting and safe way to view Durban's coastline. Visit website for more details.
Combine a trip to see the beautiful architecture of the Durban City Hall with a visit inside to see the exhibits that make up the Durban Natural Science Museum. This is a fascinating place for young and old alike, providing a first-hand introduction to the natural sciences, with a vast array of displays such as the life-size reconstruction of Tyrannosaurus Rex and the mummy of Peten-Amen who lived in Egypt some 2300 years ago. There is also the popular Kwazulwazi Science Centre, with models of human torsos, glowing rocks, computers, microscopes and much, much more to explore.
The Mitchell Park Zoo was initially set to be an ostrich farm, but when the plan didn't work, it was later turned into a vibrant zoo. An extensive collection of exotic birds, tropical fish, small animals and reptiles are housed in this pleasing setting. There are also spacious lawns for picnics. Easily accessed from the far end of Musgrave road.
A short distance to the east of the Dick King statue at the bottom of Gardiner Street is the Maritime museum. It is set on-board three South African ships - two tug boats, the Ulundi and the JR More, and a minesweeper, the SAS Durban. There are artifacts, photographs and memorabilia relating to Durbans long-standing relationship with the sea, and what better place to house such a museum, than on three seafaring vessels. As a result, the whole experience gives even the hardiest landlubber a taste of the sea.
Set in fine gardens, this model, Old Fort is a reconstruction of the basic defenses set up by the 27th Regiment, the Inniskiling Fusiliers. The original site was constructed to help protect the soldiers and the British population of the town from the Afrikaners who came and besieged Durban following their victory at the battle of Congella, in 1842. The Irishmen held out for a month when relief arrived from Grahamstown brought by the epic ride of Dick King. The military museum inside the fort is also a wonderful attraction. The Old Fort ranks as one of the National Heritage sites in Durban