Luxury Durban and Indian Ocean Coast Holidays
Overview
Brimming with beach fun, the regions along South Africa’s eastern coast make an ideal playground for luxury travellers to explore and unwind. Enjoy the Asian-inspired cuisine, relax in world-class hotels and sunbathe on pristine beaches, luxury Durban & Indian Coast holidays create a captivating getaway from the norm.
Durban, known as eThekweni in Zulu, is South Africa's third-largest city. Enhanced from an extensive makeover for 2010’s World Cup, Durban is a slick and sophisticated city, that offers plenty in the way of nightlife, fine dining, and excellent shopping. This city has a strong Southeast Asian influence, and you’ll experience this influence from the subcontinent in everything from the cuisine to the marketplaces.
Northern Durban is home to the Umhlanga Coastline, or the 'FunShine Coast'. This charming seaside community stretches from the Umgeni River in the south, to the Tongaat River in the north, and is well worth your time, as you’ll find gorgeous luxury hotels and world-class restaurants have gathered along its spectacular shores.
Then continue your adventure to Ballito, the Pearl of the Dolphin Coast. This town provides an inviting escape from the faster pace of Durban, thanks to its quaint small-town vibes. Willard Beach is the area’s main beach and the key attraction for this area, offering a dazzling stretch of sand, azure waters, and a family-friendly set-up. Celebrated natural attractions also surround this area, such as the rich fields of KwaZulu-Natal's midlands. Lastly, make some time for a trip to the Elephant Coast, where you'll find the wildlife reserve and the iSimangaliso Wetland
When To Visit
The winter season of June to August is a popular time to visit Durban. The climate throughout the year is typically warm and sunny, but most activities and events are held over this period, such as the International Film Festival and the Good Food and Wine Show.
The steady climate continues in locations such as the Elephant Coast, creating a fabulous year-round holiday option. November to January is a great time to track turtles, while your chances of seeing whales is highest from June to November.
Food & Drink
With restaurants catering for a wide array of tastes, the multicultural influences on this region of South Africa – particularly from India - has established a colourful fine dining experience.
Feast on menus ranging from gourmet seafood specialities, authentic Indian curries, South African Braai (barbecue), and international options from a range of global cuisines. Whether you opt for a bistro experience or go to a seaside restaurant, or dine al fresco on a reserve, you must try the award-winning wine of South Africa.
Passport & Visas
Be sure to keep hold of your identification at all times. It's a good idea to have a photocopy of your passport just in case. For tourism or business purposes up to 90 days, a visa isn't required. Find more advice at GOV.UK with information on passports, visas and travel.
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TRAVEL AWARE – PREPARING FOR SAFE AND HEALTHY TRAVEL ABROAD
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provide the latest travel advice by country including safety and security, entry requirements, travel warnings and health. For the latest FCDO advice please refer to travelaware.campaign.gov.uk
Current travel health information can be found by visiting travelhealthpro.org.uk/ a resource set up by the Department of Health. The advice can change on all sites so please check regularly for updates.
