10 family-friendly things to do in and around Durban

KwaZulu-Natal’s golden stretches of beach together with its warm subtropical climate, make this northern part of South Africa a perfect, family-escape playground.

The province is also home to the oldest protected reserve in Africa, the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, and is well loved for its mountains and savannah populated by big game. Durban as its City Stay darling is a popular surfing holiday experience. It is also dotted with child-friendly attractions from its extensive seafront promenade through to the adventure theme park and aquarium of uShaka Marine World.

These are the Top 10 family-friendly experiences in Kwa-Zulu Natal, that we love & are sure to keep your family entertained:

1. Explore The iSimangaliso Wetland Park, an outstanding natural wetland and coastal area also named South Africa's first world heritage site back in 1999. Seasonal Activities are constantly updated so be sure to keep an eye out for when the Turtle Hatching season starts from November each year.. this is something truly spectacular
2. Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is not only the oldest proclaimed game reserve in South Africa but it is also the closest reserve to Durban where you can spot the Big Five.
3. Tap into the beauty of the Midlands Meander and stop in at the mystical Howick Falls, with a pretty easy 1 hour walk & free entry this is a fabulous experience for those selfie-loving teens (or parents!) Previous visitors to the site have posted their Howick Falls reviews on TripAdvisor helping make the trip as easy to plan as possible!
4. Explore the Land of a Thousand Hills with a tour on the Umgeni Steam Train Railways' Imchanga Choo Choo... this is an incredible non-profit organisation dedicated to the preservation of the Railway of South Africa & with affordable tickets, it's a no brainer on a fun day out for the family!
5. Check out the Mzinyathi Falls and Rasta Caves by booking a tour with a guide to make the most of this experience. Green Corridor Wild Inanda Tour is a great starting point to book that.
6. Another Natural attraction to add to your itinerary includes the beautiful Beachwood Mangroves Reserve.
7. Durban Botanical Gardens is ideal for a family picnic.
8. In the heart of city of Durban take a Moses Mabhida Stadium SkyCar tour and experience its viewing platform. There is also the Big Swing ride (not quite a bungee, but close) for those feeling a bit more adventurous.
9. The little ones are sure to enjoy the thrill of Mini Town along the Durban promenade. Otherwise hire a bike and enjoy the promenade at your leisure.
10. You’ll make some spectacular memories with a Sunset Catamaran cruise, there are a number of operators to choose from.