Top KwaZulu-Natal Culture

Soak up the magic of Durban’s waterfront by night as you glide down the canals in a Venetian-style gondola. Let the glittering lights of Durban Point Waterfront, one of South Africa’s most celebrated new developments, slip by as you slide below bridges and down elegant waterways. Escape the bustle of the city for half an hour, with plenty to do once you return.

Learn about Durban’s history and get great city views at the same time with this luxury boat trip on the Durban Point Waterfront Canals. The tour reveals views of top attractions, and interesting facts about Durban and its famous residents—yet without the hassle of being stuck in crowds. Conveniently, the trip is capped at 12 travelers—which means ample space to sit back, relax, and enjoy the views.

Experience the journey through the storied Sani Pass while focusing on the scenery, since you'll have a guide/driver behind the wheel. No need to rent a car; you and your small group of just 15 people will be able to relax and enjoy the views while your 4x4 vehicle handles the hairpin curves of the treacherous road.

A half day Durban City tour introduces visitors to a vibrant, ethnically diverse city with a fascinating history. Durban offers a rich mix of cultures and cuisine, some of the world’s best beaches, and great weather all-year round. It is one of South Africa’s major cities, and is the largest city in KwaZulu-Natal. Included is a visit to the historic Durban Botanic Gardens, home to the legendary Wood’s Cycad (Encephalartos woodii), the rarest plants in the world and extinct in the wild. The tour explores Durban’s key landmarks, coastline, historic areas, and cultural neighbourhoods, with meaningful commentary that goes beyond a standard experience. Our signature approach focuses on context, history, culture, and connection. Included, is a taste of Durban – The Best Bunny Chow in Durban (an authentic Indian curry cuisine). On booking, you can customise your tour to focus specifically on Zulu cultural heritage or Indian cultural traditions, tailoring the experience to your interests.

Explore two countries in one day, without the hassle of planning logistics, on this 4x4 day trip into the mountain kingdom of Lesotho. Set out from Durban and pass through the exquisitely preserved Victorian city of Pietermaritzburg en route to the World Heritage Sani Pass, a steep pass rising 9,429 feet (2,870meters) above sea level. Once crossing the border (bring your passport), visit a traditional Sotho village filled with huts built around a central area filled with livestock.

Today is all about context, immersion and relevance. We will start where all things should, at the beginning. Meet the dancing curator of Phansi Museum who will introduce you to a vast collection of indigenous art and crafts before sampling Pan African Cuisine. Time to head to Isithumba — a living Zulu cultural village. A local resident will help you to explore the village on foot as you begin to understand a different way of life. If the ancestors are kind you may even meet the village chief or the local spiritual healer for an immersive exchange. The Markets of Warwick are our final stop. This curious quarter represents the beating heart of indigenous culture. Meet the Lime and Imphepho Gogos (female elders) and watch them create their goods before you witness the culture shock that is Muthi Bridge or as we like to call it — “Sangoma Central”. Unlock this mysterious place and get a feel for where the culture is heading.

One or more days ... A Registered Battlefields Guide brings back to life the drama and tragedy. What we discuss: The arrival of the Black tribes in Southern Africa The rise of the Zulu nation and the building of their army The arrival of the European/Dutch settlers The arrival of the British and the establishment of the British Colony The migration of the white population to the North (Great Trek) The Battle of Blood River The British Ultimatum and invasion of Zululand The origins of the Anglo/Boer war The control of the country by the Boer descendants and introduction of apartheid The eventual dismantling of white rule and the advent of democracy. The battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal attract historians, royalty, military scholars, tourists and family descendants.This has resulted in The Battlefields Tour of KwaZulu-Natal becoming world famous. Visit Isandlwana, Rorke's Drift, the Batshe Valley, Fugitives Drift Siege of Ladysmith, Spienkop, Churchill Capture Site And more ...

Durban and its surroundings have a lot to offer, but it can be difficult to see without a car. Book this full-day group tour and see the city's key sites plus the PheZulu Cultural Village and Reptile Park. Experience Zulu culture, including a traditional Zulu dance performance, and see crocodiles and snakes. Then visit some of this busy port city's main highlights, including the bustling Victoria Street Market, the KwaMuhle Apartheid Museum, and the Durban Botanic Gardens.

Spend the day immersed in Zulu culture and African wildlife on this full-day tour from Durban. With round-trip transportation provided on this multi-stop tour, you'll skip the need to rent a car and be able to focus on the scenery during the drive. Stop first at the Tala Private Game Reserve, where you'll see and learn about African wildlife on a game drive. Head next for the Zulu Cultural Village and Reptile Park to learn about Zulu culture and reptile wildlife in South Africa.

Get a comprehensive overview of Durban's highlights and landmarks, with transportation in between, on this full-day tour. Listen as your guide delves deep into the history, culture, architecture, and environment of this South African city. Stops include the Moses Mabhida Stadium, Umhlanga Rocks Promenade, Ushaka Village Walk, City Hall, Victoria Street Market, Durban Botanic Gardens, and others.

Visit the Isandlwana Battlefields, where South African and British Colonial history was made in a major battle, on this full-day tour from Durban. With an historian guide to lead you, you'll learn about the great battle between the Zulu warriors and British troops in 1879. Stop at Rorke's Drift to visit the museum, as well as Buffalo River for lunch and refreshments. Entrance fees and round-trip transportation included.

Explore the creative heart of KwaZulu-Natal on this full-day Midlands Meander Tour, where charming country roads lead you through a rich tapestry of talented artisans, designer studios, and handcrafted delights. Wander vibrant craft markets, meet local makers, and discover unique goods including pottery, textiles, woodwork, jewellery and fine art, all infused with South African character and creativity. Travel through rolling countryside to the Mandela Capture Site, where Nelson Mandela was arrested in 1962, offering a meaningful insight into South Africa’s journey to freedom. Along the way enjoy scenic views of rolling hills, lush farmlands and peaceful countryside, with opportunities to savour delicious local cuisine and specialty treats. Delight in freshly made cheeses, farm-to-table produce, handcrafted chocolates, boutique wines, craft beers, speciality spirits, and seasonal treats as you meet passionate makers and learn the stories behind their craft.

Step back in time to the days when the British and Zulu were warring against each other on this day trip from Durban. Visit the Rorkes Drift and Isandlwana battlefield sites to learn about the 1879 Anglo-Zulu War that changed the course of South African history forever. You also learn about the events that led up to that war for a better understanding of the country’s history.

This day safari takes you to KwaZulu-Natal, a coastal province known for its beauty and diverse array of wildlife. The tour has two stops: the African Raptor Center, with over 100 birds of prey, and the Tala Private Game Reserve, home to kudu, hippo, buffalo, giraffe, wildebeest, eland, and other big game animals. Cover both sites in just half a day, a difficult feat to do on your own.

Discover the best that Durban, South Africa has to offer on this sightseeing tour through the city. In just a few hours, visit the city’s top sights including the Victoria Street Market, Moses Mabhida Stadium, the botanical gardens, and city hall. You also get free time to purchase a meal or walk around the uShaka Village Walk shopping mall.

Get a fresh and intimate perspective on Durban on this immersive city tour, with a maximum of six travelers and a wealth of local encounters. Stroll the botanical gardens with a horticulturalist; track down street art with a local artist; meet local merchants at Victoria Street Market; and meet the dancing curator of Phansi Museum, dedicated to South Africa's diverse art and design. All this, and artisan gelato too.

Durban is considered to be the home of the Zulu people, and on this fantastic day tour, you'll have an opportunity to not only learn about the history of the Zulu people in South Africa, but also about their day to day chalenges. On the first portion of the tour you'll visit the rural Zulu village of iSithumba. Situated about 45 min west of the Durban, this quiet and picturesque valley is home to the descendants of the Debe people. On arrival, you'll be greeted by local guides who live in the village and will take you on a 2 hour tour through the village. Highlights include visiting the iSisangoma (witch doctor), the Chief of the village and his wives, the local "spaza" and the life giving river. After the tour you'll get to enjoy lunch at one of the Valley of 1000 Hills best local restaurants before heading to PheZulu. PheZulu has been around for 25 years for good reason, the Zulu dance show is one of the best! After the 30 min show, you'll head back to Durban.

Townships are part and parcel of life for many around South Africa and Durban has one of the oldest townships of all, the KwaMashu township. What makes this tour so unique is you will have an opportunity to learn about what makes a township and how modern South Africa is dealing with townships today. While visiting the township, you will get to visit the Phoenix Settlement established by Mahatma Gandhi during his time in South Africa, as well as visit the Ohlanga Institute where Nelson Mandela cast the first free and fair election vote in South Africa. Time permitting, you will also have an opportunity to visit the 1860 Museum that records and celebrates the arrival of the Indians in 1860 and learn about how they changed life in Durban for the better!

Discover Durban’s vibrant spirit on an exciting full-day tour! Explore Gandhi’s House, a powerful museum of his fight against racial oppression, and drive through Inanda Township. Shop at Victoria Street Market and visit the Zulu Medicine Market to experience local traditions. Marvel at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium and take a Sky Car ride for breathtaking views. Relax at uShaka Marine World’s Village Walk with shopping, entertainment, and lunch options. Walk through Africa’s oldest botanical garden and delve into Durban’s history at KwaMuhle Museum, highlighting its apartheid past. Finish with quick stops at City Hall and the thriving harbor. An unforgettable journey into Durban’s culture, history, and stunning scenery!

Experience an exhilarating adventure to the majestic Kingdom of Lesotho. Departing from Underberg, we will ascend the iconic Sani Pass, climbing from 1,544 to 2,876 meters. You'll get to enjoy some shopping at the local curio shops before immersing yourself in the local culture with a visit to a Basotho home. With expert guidance throughout, this Sani Pass day tour offers rich insights into Lesotho’s history, fauna, and flora. Kindly Note: Prior reservations are essential in order to have lunch at the Highest Pub in Africa during the tour. Unfortunately due to the lodges limited capacity entry is granted only to guests that will be eating with them, this also means that the lodge is unfortunately unable to accommodate guests who wish solely to have a drink, use the WIFI, or restrooms.

 Alternatively we offer our guests the option of either having lunch at a lovely local Basotho restaurant, or feel free to bring along your own snacks and drinks for in the vehicle while on the tour.

A South African safari is best to be done from Durban as we are fortunate enough in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal to have the Oldest reserve in Africa, Hluhluwe Imfolozi and it is home to the Big 5 the Rhino, Elephant, Lion, Buffalo and Leopard. Pick up from your hotel in the Durban area, your qualified guide will ensure your Durban Safari Tour will be memorable as he shows off what wildlife Hluhluwe Imfolozi game reserve has to offer! Being a Big 5 Game reserve and malaria free, Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game reserve is our most popular Durban Safari Tour and our Tour of choice! Your Safari Tour with Tim Brown Tours will be unforgettable from beginning to end. WHY WE THINK YOU’LL LOVE IT ✓   Having the possibility of seeing the Big 5. ✓   Visiting the oldest protected reserve in Africa. ✓   Being in nature where seeing anything is possible while in the capable and safe hands of your qualified and experienced guide.

This comprehensive tour offers an excellent overview of the KwaZulu-Natal region. Stops include the Gandhi statue and City Hall in the capital city of Pietermaritzburg (the largest brick building in the southern hemisphere), the Nelson Mandela capture site statue and Apartheid Museum, and Howick Falls. You will also take a lengthy hike in Kamberg Nature Reserve to view ancient sandstone rock art.

Phezulu Cultural Village and Reptile Park. Here, enjoy an immersive Zulu cultural experience complete with a traditional dance performance The tour is a walking tour, lasting about 90 min (light activity). We'll get to meet the actual Chief/Headman of the village, as well as the Sangoma (traditional healer). We'll also get to walk down the river, a place of huge importance to the Zulu people, where young boys traditionally met their wives to be.