Travel to Durban

historically important port from the colonial era

Durban is located in the KwaZulu Natal region of South Africa.

The first settlement was established here in 1823, when a British ship sought shelter from a storm in the broad bay. The captain named the place Salisbury and Farewell Islands, shortly after establishing trade relations with Shaka the legendary king of the Zulu tribe.

In 1839 the Boer Voortrekkers established the Republic of Natalia, siting their capital at Pietermaritzburg, 50 km inland from Durban. In 1842 a substantial battle took place when British forces (worried that they might lose control of the port) attacked a Boer encampment, after which the Boers besieged the town for 20 days, until a relief force arrived from Grahamstown.

The British then went on to develop Durban into a major trading port.

The subsequent introduction of sugar plantations to the area saw huge numbers of indentured workers being brought in from India, many of whom stayed on to develop into the vibrant community which is a major feature of modern life in the city. Curry is a way of life here in Durban.

We are very rarely asked to include Durban in trips. When we do it tends to be for guests who are visiting relatives in the area, following a cricket tour, or visiting on business.

some pleasant small hotels