The KZN Philharmonic holds various annual events, including the Music at the Lake, a series of light classical evenings held in the early spring and summer evenings, in the lovely botanical gardens. The NBS Sunset Proms are held throughout the year, and look out for the "Stars and Stripes" evening of U.S. music around July 4th. These are held at the Kingsmead Cricket grounds. For details of when these very special events are to be held, get in contact with the Philarmonic box office.
Built during the 1920's in Tudor Revival style, Playhouse was taken over by the Performing Arts Council in the 1980's. The Company's mission is to provide cultural education and entertainment in both an African and international context. Within the complex there are several theaters which house a variety of productions simultaneously. Alongside the production and performance work of its Drama and Dance departments, the Company's Education and Development department has an active program, presenting mobile theater to schools. Inquire at the Tourist Junction about guided tours of the Playhouse. Call for performance schedule.
Durban Botanic Gardens are regarded by many as some of South Africa's most beautiful city park lands. In 1850, the original curator, Mr. Mark Johnson McKen, laid the groundwork for what it is today. Specialties include the Earnest Thorpe Orchid House, a Herb Garden, a Sunken Garden and the Garden for the Blind. There is an information center and a tea garden. There are live concerts held in the park regularly, throughout the year, and audiences are welcome to bring along a picnic basket. Multiple concerts take place in the hall and the event spaces in the gardens. Workshops and exhibitions are also held.
The Umgeni River Bird Park is one of the finest bird parks in the world, with a spectacular collection of over 3,000 exotic and indigenous birds. A network of paths gives you a fine place to see lories, cockatoos and aras. It is set on the Umgeni River, which is at the edge of Durban city, close to the river mouth. There is a daily show which is highly recommended and an excellent way to see the birds in flight.
This stadium, named after the former General Secretary of the South African Communist Party, was constructed in the Durban sports precinct for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Its unique design allows it to both expand to 80,000-person capacity and reduce to hold 54,000 people. The modern structure includes a large arch which symbolizes the country's struggles and unification.
uShaka Sea World is a world of wonder and magic. This outstanding shipwreck-themed aquarium is linked to the dolphinarium where delightful dolphin, seal and penguin shows take place throughout the day. There's also a snorkeling lagoon and a touch pool. Scuba divers feed fish, giant turtles and stingrays by hand, and the sharks are awe-inspiring. Sea World is run by SAAMBR (The South African Association for Marine Biological Research), a non-government, non-profit association that also incorporates the Sea World Education Centre and the Oceanographic Research Institute.
St Paul's was originally built in 1853, but was rebuilt in 1906 after a fire destroyed the original buildings. The new church was built in a Neo-Gothic style. From the outside, it is not much to look at, but the interior is beautiful. There are commemorative plaques on the walls to some of Durban's early settlers and there is a lovely, wood ceiling complemented by the stained-glass chancel windows. The chapel of St. Nicolas on the left of the aisle was part of the Mission to Seamen between 1899 and 1989.
A gift from the Portuguese government installed on the Victoria Embankment in 1897 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of explorer Vasco Da Gama's first sighting and visit to Durban, which was then called the Natal coast, the Da Gama clock is in somewhat of a state of disrepair these days, but still a striking sight, nonetheless. Crafted from colorful and impressively intricate ironwork, this bell-shaped clock is a popular Durban attraction and one of the city's most historical. As well, its location along the popular and thoroughly modern Victoria Embankment, also called the Esplanade, make it a great addition to an afternoon stroll. In 1969 a new stone plaque that commemorates the 500th anniversary of Da Gama's birth was unveiled by the Portuguese ambassador.
This theater was created to showcase the talents of Durban's playwrights, musicians, and poets. A variety of shows are offered, from musical theater to drama, poetry, and comedy. Whatever genre you prefer, you're sure to find it at at the Catalina. During intermission, get a cold drink at the bar or take in the fabulous views of the harbor. See website for current listings.
African Kingdom Tours specializes in day and overnight tours including the Hluhluwe Game Park and St. Lucia tour and the Lesotho Via Sani Pass tour, which includes transportation via 4x4 and a trip to the highest pub in Africa. Longer tours include a three day trip in the Drakensburg Mountains. For those who are traveling through, several one-direction tours are also available. All tours include transportation and some food.
A dominant feature of the Clairwood landscape, Shree Siva Subramanium Alayam is one of the places where Hindus in the area worship. Another important aspect worth mentioning is the Kavadi celebrations which is celebrated with great aplomb in the 120-year-old temple.
Discover Durban's nightlife by visiting the Fahrenheit Executive Lounge and Nightclub. As the sun sets, the interiors are lit with psychedelic lighting and modern sound settings while the DJ spins some groovy numbers making the crowd burn the dance floor. While enjoying the lively ambiance of the club you could indulge in light snacks and drinks. The club also offers rental spaces for private events and parties where the venue can be decorated as per the requirement of the event.