Under $100: Durban

Durban is South Africa’s most popular tourist destination, with plenty to do in a day for 1,391 South African Rand. Here’s how to use it spend it wisely.

© Lcswart | Dreamstime

The city’s bus system is in need of an upgrade, so the best way to get around is by car. Taxis are relatively common, safe and inexpensive, though keep in mind they do not rove and need to be called ahead of time. Minibus taxis or combis are cheaper and can be hailed from the street, though they are directed toward commuters and stick to set routes.

Start your day peacefully and fully relaxed by visiting one of the city’s many meditation centers. Meditate in Durban offers classes for people of all experience levels for R40, in addition to hosting workshops and meditation events with special guests around the year.

Spider Murphy shaping surfboards © Chris Van Lennep | Dreamstime

Durban’s Golden Mile is the perfect place to practice your new skills. It gets extremely crowded during Christmastime, but in the off-season the place is much more hospitable. This four-mile stretch of golden sand has bikes, sandcastles, kites and a beautiful view of the Indian Ocean. For a quick bite, head to Bike & Bean where you can get a rich espresso before renting one of their bikes for R50. Rollerblades, skateboards, boogie boards and tandem bikes are also available.

There are several beaches along the Golden Mile; Blue Lagoon is good for picnics and fishing, while North Beach has several points for surfers. You can also check out Bay of Plenty’s skate park and the many market vendors selling Zulu art and crafts. Durban is a great surfing town as well, with many schools like Learn 2 Surf offering private lessons for R200.

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You’ve probably worked up an appetite by now, and it is highly recommended you go to one of the city’s many Indian restaurants. Durban has one of the largest Indian populations outside the country, and they’ve even created a curry dish unique to South Africa called Bunny Chow, which is a hollowed loaf of bread filled with curry. If you want a taste while hanging out at the Golden Mile, head to Jaipur Palace in Durban North.

Close out your night at Origin, one of the city’s most respected nightclubs. South Africa’s electronic music scene has been growing in the past decade, with Durban leading the charge for nightlife and international DJs. Entrance is usually R100 after 10 p.m. for high-profile events.