Getting to Durban

Durban is a well-connected destination with multiple travel options, whether you're arriving by air, road, rail, or sea. Here’s a guide to help you plan your journey.

Arriving in Durban by Air

Durban’s King Shaka International Airport (DUR) welcomes flights from around the world, with many international routes requiring just one connection.

International Flights

• Emirates: Offers direct flights from Dubai (DXB) to Durban (DUR).
• South African Airways: Connects travelers through Johannesburg (JNB).
• Other international airlines operating routes into Durban include Ethiopian Airlines, British Airways, Qatar Airways, and more.

For the best flight options, check your preferred travel booking site.

Domestic Flights

South Africa’s domestic airlines offer frequent flights to Durban, with travel times of:
✈️ Johannesburg to Durban – Approx. 45 minutes
✈️ Cape Town to Durban – Approx. 2 hours

Major domestic carriers include FlySafair, Airlink, Lift, and South African Airways.

Flight Times to Durban

International Flight Durations (Including Stopovers)
🌍 Dubai to Durban – 7 to 8 hours
🌍 New York to Durban – 17 hours
🌍 Sydney to Durban – 17 hours
🌍 Toronto to Durban – 21 hours
🌍 Los Angeles to Durban – 25 hours

Domestic Flight Durations
🇿🇦 Johannesburg to Durban – 45 minutes
🇿🇦 Cape Town to Durban – 2 hours

Arriving in Durban by Road

Durban’s road network is modern and well-maintained, making it easy for self-drive travelers.

🚗 Driving in Durban

• Left-hand side driving is observed in South Africa.
• Speed Limits: 120 km/h on highways, 60 km/h in urban areas.
• Driving licenses: International driving permits (IDP) are recommended, but licenses in English with a photo are generally accepted.
• Minimum driving age: 18 years (some car rentals require drivers to be 23+ years old).

Distances & Travel Times

🛣️ Johannesburg to Durban – 570 km (354 miles) via the N3 Freeway (5.5 to 6 hours)
🛣️ Cape Town to Durban – 1,600 km (997 miles) via the N1 & N3 Freeways (16-18 hours)

Bus & Coach Travel

Long-distance buses connect Durban to major South African cities. Popular operators include:
🚌 Greyhound
🚌 Intercape
🚌 Citiliner

⏳ Approximate Travel Times by Bus
🛣️ Johannesburg to Durban – 6 to 8 hours
🛣️ Cape Town to Durban – 16 to 18 hours

Train Travel to Durban

🚆 Shosholoza Meyl is the only passenger train service between Johannesburg and Durban.
⏳ Journey time: 15 hours

Arriving by Cruise Ship

🚢 Durban has one of Africa’s largest passenger terminals, the Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal.

• Major cruise liners dock here, including MSC Cruises, which operates routes between Durban, Mozambique, Mauritius, and Cape Town.
• Durban’s cruise terminal is set for major upgrades, making it a world-class port for international travelers.

Visitor Safety Tips

While Durban is a vibrant and welcoming city, personal safety is key to an enjoyable visit. Keep in mind the following:

🔹 Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas.
🔹 Avoid displaying valuable items in public spaces.
🔹 Use registered taxis, ride-hailing apps (Uber/Bolt), or hotel transport.
🔹 Be cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs.
🔹 At night, stick to well-lit, busy areas and travel in groups where possible.

For emergencies, dial 10111 for police or 112 from a mobile phone.