Durban from Within : An Immersive City Tour

Start the day strolling through Africa’s oldest surviving Botanical Gardens with our passionate horticulturalist tapping into its history and unique collection. Time to meet Mama Nkosi otherwise known as the dancing curator of one of the largest collections of traditional art as she reveals indigenous beliefs and tribal culture. Tuck into lunch (own cost) and sample the popular flavours of Durban — ever tried a bunny chow? With your energy levels restored, enter into the beating heart of the city — Victoria Street Market — and meet local merchants as they peddle their wares. Drive through the city centre as your guide brings it to life with historical anecdotes and an encyclopaedia of knowledge. Moses Mabhida Stadium isn’t just great to look at, it’s also terrific to jump off (own cost).

1. 1

   Durban Botanic Gardens

   45 min

   The first stop on this tour is the Durban Botanical Gardens. Here we will meet a passionate local horticulturalist who will help you unlock this living museum after all these gardens have museum status. Explore the gardens and which is home to the loneliest man on the planet (don't stress, it's a plant).

2. 2

   Phansi Museum

   1 hour

   Phansi Museum is home to one of the largest collections of indigenous art and craft in South Africa. Meet Phumzile, the dancing curator of the museum, as you explore South Africa's cultural diversity through art and design.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   30 min

   If you're looking for a keepsake from South Africa, there's no better place. Visit the KwaZulu Natal Society of the Arts and browse their gift shop. Everything sold at KZNSA is sourced from sustainable programmes throughout the province or from one of the many NGOs that partners with the gallery.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   1 hour

   If you've not heard about Durban's famous "Bunny Chow" by now, you're in for a happy surprise. Lunch is at CaneCutters Restaurant home to Durban's best "Bunny Chow" — well according to us and a few awards that is. Try the traditional "1/4 mutton bunny" or one of the various options from vegetarian to local delicacies. Lunch is at your own expense.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   1 hour

   There are 2 ways of visit the markets, the touristy way and the immersive way. We prefer the latter after all, the Victoria Street Market is only 1 of the many markets at Warwick Junction. Meet our colleagues from Asiye eTafuleni (a local NGO) that works intimately with the traders of the Markets. Explore the various sides to the markets from the Lime Ladies to Muthi Bridge and beyond.

6. 6

   Durban

   45 min

   Travel through the inner city as your guide unlocks the history and heritage with anecdotes and city secrets. Take in the colonial architecture and art deco buildings. Check out Moses Mabhida Stadium and if you are an adrenaline junkie, perhaps sign up for the BigRush (Jump off the Tallest Swing on the planet).

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.