10 Best Places for Weekend Getaway From Durban, SA

08 Jun 2026Updated last time

Discover the Vibrant Charm of South Africa's Best Getaways

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the heart of South Africa's scenic beauty and cultural richness. From the majestic Drakensberg Mountains to the wildlife haven of Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park, and the artsy meanders of the Midlands, South Africa is a destination that beckons with an eclectic array of attractions. Each location is steeped in its own unique allure, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the vibrant landscapes, rich histories, and captivating wildlife that make these getaways truly enchanting. Whether you seek the serenity of mountain retreats, the thrill of a safari adventure, or the quaintness of country villages, these destinations promise experiences that resonate with the soul and create memories that last a lifetime.


Recommended Activities

  • 1

    Drakensberg Mountains

    The Drakensberg Mountains offer breathtaking views, incredible hiking trails, and a unique opportunity for adventure and relaxation. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its natural beauty and prehistoric San rock art.
  • 2

    Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park

    This is the oldest proclaimed nature reserve in Africa, boasting a high density of both rhino and lion populations. It's a key conservation area, offering visitors the chance to experience a Big Five safari and witness wildlife in their natural habitat.
  • 3

    The Midlands Meander

    The Midlands Meander route is renowned for its stunning scenery, artisanal foods, and craft shops. It's perfect for those wanting to explore a tranquil countryside, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience local arts and culture.
  • Ballito offers stunning beaches ideal for surfing and sunbathing, along with dolphin watching opportunities. The town has a laid-back coastal vibe, but also provides upmarket shopping and dining experiences.
  • 5

    iSimangaliso Wetland Park

    As a UNESCO World Heritage site, iSimangaliso Wetland Park features a remarkable diversity of ecosystems, from coral reefs and sandy beaches to wetlands and savannahs. It's an excellent location for bird-watching, game viewing, and aquatic adventures.
  • 6

    Royal Natal National Park

    Royal Natal National Park is home to the iconic Amphitheatre, a breathtaking cliff face and source of the Tugela Falls. Hiking here provides visitors with majestic mountain scenery and the opportunity to explore the natural landscape.
  • Margate is known for its beautiful beaches, warm Indian Ocean waters, and vibrant nightlife. It's a popular holiday destination that offers a variety of water sports and family-friendly attractions.
  • 8

    Pongola Game Reserve

    Pongola Game Reserve is one of the oldest reserves in South Africa, where visitors can indulge in exceptional big game viewing, including elephants and rhinos, in a less crowded and serene environment, complemented by activities like fishing and bird watching.
  • Howick is famous for its scenic waterfalls, including the Howick Falls, and it serves as a gateway to the Midlands Meander. It combines natural beauty with historical significance, as it's near the capture site of Nelson Mandela.
  • Scottburgh is a picturesque coastal town known for its lovely beaches and warm, subtropical climate. It's a great spot for swimming, surfing, and watching the abundant marine life. The town also offers a family-friendly atmosphere with parks and recreational activities.

Restaurants

  • Picture for The Test Kitchen

    The Test Kitchen

    An experimental and immersive dining experience with a tasting menu that is considered one of the best in the world.
  • Picture for Cube Tasting Kitchen

    Cube Tasting Kitchen

    24 Albrecht St, Jeppestown, Johannesburg, 2043, South Africa
    Offers a multi-course tasting menu in a unique cube-shaped space, focusing on molecular gastronomy and creative culinary techniques.
  • Picture for Cargo Hold Restaurant

    Cargo Hold Restaurant

    1 King Shaka Ave, Point, Durban, 4001, South Africa
    Nestled in the stern of the Phantom ship with an incredible aquarium view, providing guests with an under-the-sea dining experience.
  • Picture for Die Mystic Boer

    Die Mystic Boer

    This quirky venue offers a blend of bohemian decor, lively local music, and unique South African cuisine.
  • Picture for Truth Coffee Roasting

    Truth Coffee Roasting

    Known for its steampunk décor, this café offers not just coffee but a full dining experience and has been cited as one of the world's best coffee shops.
  • Picture for Carnivore Restaurant

    Carnivore Restaurant

    69 Drift Blvd, Estate, Muldersdrift, 1747, South Africa
    A meat-lover's paradise that serves a selection of game meats in an African-themed setting, complete with traditional Maasai warrior servers.
  • Picture for Baobab Café
    South Africa
    Set under a giant Baobab tree, this café offers a natural and relaxing atmosphere to enjoy a light meal created with fresh local ingredients.
  • Picture for Modernist Cuisine

    Modernist Cuisine

    2 Avondrust Cir, Chapmans Peak, Cape Town, 7979, South Africa
    This avant-garde restaurant showcases the intersection of art and science with food, creating a unique modernist cuisine experience.

Hotels

  • The Oyster Box

    2 Lighthouse Rd, Umhlanga, uMhlanga, 4319, South Africa

    An iconic hotel known for its colonial charm, seafront lighthouse, and views of the Indian Ocean.
  • Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve

    R303, Koue Bokkeveld, Cederberg, 6836, South Africa

    Stay in unique cave suites or hut accommodations in this nature reserve located in the Cederberg Mountains.
  • The Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa

    This boutique hotel was once a power station and now offers a unique industrial-chic experience on Knysna's Thesen Island.
  • Tsala Treetop Lodge

    Off N2 10km W Of Plettenberg, Plettenberg Bay, 6600, South Africa

    Experience a luxurious stay high above the forest floor in tree-house suites nestled amidst the canopy of an ancient forest.
  • Giraffe Manor

    An exclusive boutique hotel reminiscent of the 1930s and famous for its resident herd of Rothschild's giraffes that may visit you during breakfast.
  • The Grand Daddy Boutique Hotel

    38 Long St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

    This hotel features a rooftop Airstream trailer park, offering guests a quirky and unique accommodation option in the heart of Cape Town.

Local Events & Happenings

  • Picture for Discovery Bank Pre-Sale | Andrea Bocelli | Cape Town

    Discovery Bank Pre-Sale | Andrea Bocelli | Cape Town

    DHL Stadium in Cape Town (55.97 mi)16 Apr 2025
    The event will take place at DHL Stadium in Cape Town.
  • Picture for Rory Petzer

    Rory Petzer

    Mardi Gras Theatre in Johannesburg (244.93 mi)28 Jun 2024
    The event will take place at Mardi Gras Theatre in Johannesburg.
  • Picture for Sonja en Tjokker

    Sonja en Tjokker

    Mardi Gras Theatre in Johannesburg (244.93 mi)29 Jun 2024
    The event will take place at Mardi Gras Theatre in Johannesburg.
  • Picture for Calabash South Africa 2025 | Robbie Williams

    Calabash South Africa 2025 | Robbie Williams

    FNB Stadium in Johannesburg (259.34 mi)18 Jan 2025
    The event will take place at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg.
  • Picture for Calabash 2025 | Green Day, The Offspring & Fokofpolisiekar

    Calabash 2025 | Green Day, The Offspring & Fokofpolisiekar

    FNB Stadium in Johannesburg (259.34 mi)19 Jan 2025
    The event will take place at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg.
  • Picture for Standard Bank Joy Of Jazz 2024

    Standard Bank Joy Of Jazz 2024

    Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg (263.23 mi)27 Sep 2024
    The event will take place at Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.
  • Picture for Standard Bank Joy Of Jazz 2024 - Weekend Package

    Standard Bank Joy Of Jazz 2024 - Weekend Package

    Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg (263.23 mi)28 Sep 2024
    The event will take place at Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.

Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Best Places to Stay in Durban, South Africa

    Getaways, if you are staying for a few weeks / months try to include some of the following shorter trips Drakensberg - our Mountain area for camping, hiking, river swims etc. ...

  • Making the most of a 2-day Durban Trip

    /r/Durban

    I've managed to book an insanely cheap flight to Durban so I'll be heading down to explore the area for 2 days next month (a Thursday morning to Saturday evening tri...

  • Quiet weekend away recommendations in kzn?

    /r/Durban

    Anywhere in the Champagne Valley (Drakensberg) near Underberg.

  • Any tips to travel Durban, Drakensberg and the surroundings?

    /r/askSouthAfrica

    Hire a car and drive around or ... is magical. Safety tips: it's safe overall, nothing to worry about, may encounter higher chargers if found speaking german, stick to En...

  • Hi Guys just booked a trip to South Africa that I an really excited about, Please my itinerary below and would love any advice?

    /r/askSouthAfrica

    Consider staying in Umhlanga or Ballito, both are lovely with great beaches. Fwiw, I prefer Ballito. I'll leave the Capetonians to comment on CT. ... From Durban, drive a...

  • South Africa: Where Should I Visit & What Itinerary Should I Follow?

    /r/CharlieTheTraveler

    Below is an article I wrote in which I explained where in South Africa I think you should visit, how much time I think you should spend at each of

  • Durban Adventure

    /r/Durban

    Holla trails in ballito and giba gorge are also good for trails, biking etc. Not sure if it's operating, but you can bungee off Moses mabhida stadium as well. Surf lesson...

  • Things to do in Durban

    /r/Durban

    32 votes, 32 comments. Hi everyone. Small family traveling to Durban during Christmas period and we are looking for some fun things to do or

  • Day trip to a game reserve

    /r/Durban

    Hluhluwe-Umfolozi game reserve. 2.5 hours from Durbs. Camp at Nyalazi campsite, very affordable ... Lake eland in Margate was really cool. Lots to do. And If I remember correc...

  • Suggestions for a Scenic 5-Day Road Trip: Johannesburg to Durban via Drakensberg & Midlands Meander

    /r/askSouthAfrica

    Ladysmith haven't been in some years grew up there but maybe bullers rest is still open if they interested in Anglo Boer war and history of area . Else go more via Draken...

  • Has anyone been to Durban, South Africa?

    /r/femaletravels

    Drakensberg - our Mountain area for camping, hiking, river swims etc. ... South Coast - Port Shepstone etc. great beaches Hluhluwe - our game park areas depending on your budg...

  • Where is the best place to go on a baecation in Durban?

    /r/askSouthAfrica

    Umdloti or Ballito. ... Umhlanga is your go to place. ... We once did besch holiday in July two years ago, stayed in Umhlanga and then went Durban for uShaka marine world and ...

  • Coming to visit Durbs after 15 years away - questions!!

    /r/Durban

    Town beaches are fine in the morning, but can get kind of sketchy durning the late afternoon/evening, in parts. Umhlanga beaches are nice and safe, as are most other popular n...

  • Planning a two-week coastal road trip from Durban to Cape Town - please recommend us your hidden gems

    /r/southafrica

    Be careful around Margate, Kokstad to East London. ... You absolutely must make a stop in Kenton on Sea. Between East London and Port Elizabeth. ... I would highly recommend t...

  • what is your South African Bucket-List

    /r/askSouthAfrica

    Kruger, Kgalagadi, Isimangaliso, Hluhluwe at every time of the year. Look for turtles laying eggs and the eggs hatching at Isimangaliso. Whale watching in Durban and Hermanus.

  • 7 Days Drakensberg: Where to stay and what hikes (day trips) do you recommend to a solo traveller?

    /r/travel

    I'll be heading to Durban soon and would love to explore Drakensberg for 7-8 days. I'll be renting a car and love to do day trips (hikes). Which places do you recomm...

  • Hidden gems in the Durban region for visitors?

    /r/askSouthAfrica

    We already have a few short multi-day trips planned (beach trip to Ballito staying at a rented house very close to Salt Rock hotel, hiking in the Berg, few nights at a game re...