Durban for the Business Traveler

Not many people know that warm sub-tropical Durban, with its kilometres of golden beaches, is home to one of the largest concentrations of people of Indian descent (Muslim, Hindu and Christian) outside India itself.

With its rich influences from the East, along with its colonial heritage and its location in the heartland of the famed Zulu Kingdom, and a diversity of other peoples, Durban offers a remarkable melange of people and cultures, reflected in its notable cuisine and it’s friendly and informal ambiance.

And from Durban it is an easy drive on excellent roads to some of the most beautiful places in South Africa.

Why go there?

Durban is one of South Africa's fastest growing urban areas with a population of 3.7 million people. A previous winner of the UN Award for Best Managed City in Africa, the local authorities are geared towards international conferences and go to great lengths to ensure their success. This conference city also goes the extra mile – from erecting welcoming banners to closing off roads to include street and beach parties in conference programmes.
Durban is in the heartland of the Zulu Kingdom and located in an area rich in scenic beauty – with majestic mountains, lush subtropical forests and many game and nature reserves, home to the much sought after "Big Five".

What about transport?

- The Durban International Airport is situated within 20 minutes of the International Convention Centre, the City's Central Business District (CBD) and beachfront hotels. The airport receives direct flights from various international destination and domestic services link the city to the rest of South Africa.
- A sophisticated road network serves Durban and transport is fast and reliable. Within Durban the Mynah Bus service ferries passengers between the north and south beaches, the CBD and surrounding suburbs.
- There are conventional metered taxis which can be summonsed by telephone. This is a service offered by all hotel reception staff.
- All the major car rental agencies have offices at the airports and in the cities.

Top-Rated Attractions

Durban Botanical Gardens
Sea World Aquarium
Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve
Waterworld
uShaka Marine World
Umgeni River Bird Park
Mitchell Park
Fitzsimons Snake Park
The Valley of a 1000 Hills
Umtamvuna Nature Reserve

For some couple ideas and activities, click here.

Will we be safe?

- In terms of safety, the Durban area is one of the safest in South Africa. The North Coast beach areas are also safe for families to relax and enjoy a day or an evening out, while the Durban beachfront and promenade enjoys a high police presence.
- Durban’s CBD in partnership with the metro police, South African Police(SAP) and Tourist Protection Unit have made a considerable effort to protect and safeguard tourists and civilians alike: from surveillance cameras and improved lighting on the beachfront, to security guards watching over most large shopping centres and many businesses .