DurbanOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt

From Colonial Outpost to Modern Metropolis

Durban's story begins with the arrival of European traders in the early 19th century. In 1824, a group of 25 men led by Lieutenant F.G. Farewell established a settlement on the northern shore of the Bay of Natal. They purchased the land from the Zulu King Shaka, renaming the area Port Natal. The town of Durban itself was founded in 1835 and named after Sir Benjamin D'Urban, then governor of the Cape Colony.

Throughout the 19th century, Durban's location as a port fueled its growth. The city became a hub for trade, particularly with the influx of Indian indentured laborers starting in 1860 to work in the sugarcane fields of Natal. This migration shaped Durban's cultural landscape, with a significant Indian community developing in the city. The Victoria Street Market, for instance, traces its origins back to these early Indian traders in the 1890s.

Echoes of the Past in Stone and Steel

Durban's architecture reflects its layered history. The Old Court House, built in the mid-1860s, stands as the oldest public building in the central business district. It witnessed events like the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879, where it was loop-holed for defense, and later served as a recruitment center during both World Wars. Just a few meters away, the Durban City Hall, completed in 1910, is an example of Edwardian neo-Baroque architecture, designed by Stanley Hudson as a replica of Belfast City Hall in Northern Ireland. Its facade, adorned with allegorical statues, speaks to the city's aspirations during the early 20th century.

• —Old Court House Museum — This is the oldest public building in Durban's CBD, built in the mid-1860s. It houses exhibitions detailing the region's early history, including replicas of Henry Francis Fynn's cottage and a 19th-century haberdashery store.
• —Juma Musjid Mosque — Also known as the Grey Street Mosque, this Sunni Islam mosque was established in 1881. Its architecture, rebuilt in 1927, features two minarets with golden domes and geometric designs.
• —Durban City Hall — Completed in 1910, this Edwardian neo-Baroque building is almost an exact replica of Belfast City Hall. Inside, you will find the Durban Art Gallery and the Natural Science Museum, which houses a dodo skeleton and an Egyptian mummy.
• —Victoria Street Market (now J.B. Marks Road) — Dating back to 1890, this market reflects Durban's Indian heritage. It is a two-story bazaar with hundreds of stalls selling spices, traditional artwork, clothing, and fresh produce.
• —Mahatma Gandhi Statue (Old Court House Museum grounds) — A statue of Mahatma Gandhi stands in front of the Old Court House Museum, commemorating his time as a lawyer in Durban and his early activism against racial oppression.
• —Point Waterfront — This revitalized area near the old maritime terminal offers a modern take on Durban's coastal appeal, with opportunities for boat cruises and harbor views.

The best time to visit Durban is during its winter months, from May to September. During this period, the weather is generally dry and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 24°C. This cooler, drier climate is suitable for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and beaches without the humidity of summer. Rainfall is at its lowest in June. The shoulder seasons of April and October also offer good value with fewer crowds. Avoid the summer months from November to March if you prefer to escape hot, humid weather and frequent thunderstorms.

King Shaka International Airport (DUR) is approximately 35-40 kilometers north of central Durban. The journey to the city center by car or taxi typically takes 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. There is no direct train connection from the airport. Shuttle buses are available, with a journey time of around 30 minutes and a fare of about 100 ZAR to the city center. Uber and Bolt are widely available and often cheaper than metered taxis for getting around the city.

Within Durban, the People Mover bus service is an efficient way to navigate the city and beachfront, with buses running every 15 minutes from 6 AM to 11 PM. A single trip costs around R6, and a full-day pass is available. The People Mover buses are wheelchair-friendly and offer free Wi-Fi on some routes. Walking is feasible in certain areas like the Golden Mile, but for longer distances or exploring different neighborhoods, public transport or ride-hailing services are recommended.