Durban and KwaZulu-Natal are the centrepiece of South Africa’s playground. The surrounding areas are lush and subtropical with beautiful sandy beaches, spectacular mountain ranges, excellent fishing and plenty to see. Some of the best game reserves in the country can be found right on the doorstep. The mild climate makes for perfect conditions for a motorhome getaway.
In case you would like to explore more of South Africa in your camper hire, you could head to Johannesburg or discover the neighbouring countries that are Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia.
Durban motorhome rental, get the best deals
Your Durban campervan hire in South Africa is the ideal cost-effective way to see a stunning part of South Africa. Whether you plan to laze along the beautiful beaches or get up close and personal with some extraordinary wildlife, there is no shortage of holiday destinations.
At Motorhome Republic, you can search through all of your RV options in one place. Just enter the details of your trip to see a tailored list of Durbancampervan rentals. We will deliver a variety of vehicles ranging in size and you can compare all of the options. Large, RV-style motorhomes make for a comfortable way to travel, while the smaller, converted-van type is easy to manoeuvre and park in the city.
Big five Durban road trips
Just an hour’s drive from Durban is the Tala Game Reserve. It’s home to 380 species of birds and big game—including rhinos, wildebeests, bok, warthogs, hippos and giraffes. You can explore the park yourself on a self-drive safari, or get a guide to lead you on a walk or as part of a game drive.
If you’re looking for the big five, the Hluhluwe Umfolozi Game Reserve on the north coast of KwaZulu-Natal has them all, and 84 different animals to boot.
North-west of Durban is Inanda, a township brimming with history. Mahatma Gandhi acted as an Indian expat lawyer in 1904 as he developed his passive-resistance philosophy. John Dube, first president of the African National Congress, was born here in 1871 and opened the local Ohlange Institute where, in 1994, Nelson Mandela voted in South Africa’s first democratic elections.
Visit Shakaland to experience the day-to-day activities of local Zulu people. It’s a pleasant journey though the tropical beauty of Zululand and nKwalini Valley until you come to a hilltop overlooking the uMhlatusi River, the birthplace of Shaka. Learn about the culture and traditions of Zulu life and enjoy the local beer and entertainment.
KwaZulu Natal is a popular year-round holiday resort. There are forests, blue lagoons, golden beaches, rocky coves and the warm Indian Ocean. You can try surfing or scuba diving, but if you get the chance, watch the phenomenon of the sardine run. Every winter, millions of sardines migrate up the coast, accompanied by dolphins and other animals which feed on them, and people come from around the country to scoop up buckets of this easy haul.
Motorhome camping – sites and sounds in Durban
Eco Park has spacious camping sites for caravans and motorhomes. It’s well run and in a great location to act as a base for your trip. Talk to the more than helpful owners about your plans. Around 15 km from Durban CBD, hidden in a valley, by the Umbilo River and between subtropical forest and cliffs, Queensburgh is a family run Caravan Park. The facilties are modern and well equipped and the staff friendly. It’s tranquil and clean and still only a short drive from the city.
Situated only 30 minutes south of Durban isthe campsite nicknamed ‘The one on the beach’.The Scottburgh Campsite and Caravan Park on the Umdoni Coast walks down onto the beach and is ideal for large family getaways.
If you are travelling to Cape Town, the Mountain Zebra National Park campsite is a lovely stop if you have the time. Book well in advance.
Walk on the wild side – the must-seesof Durban
Swim with the sharks at uShakaMarine World, or experience walking on the bottom of the ocean among the rays, tuna and sardines. There’s also the Wild Water Park which is a great place to take the family.
Durban has the highest concentration of Indians outside the country itself. Explore the Indian district by taking a guided walking tour of the city’s Indian heritage and history. The tour also stops at markets where you can purchase traditional sari, spices and fabrics.
Golden sand beaches edge the coast around the city. Nicknamed the “Mile”,it’s actually around a four-mile stretch from Blue Lagoon south to Addington Beach and Durban Harbor. You can take a dip in the water, build sandcastles, or jog/bike along the wide brick paved walk.
Beaches on the KwaZulu Natal coastline are the only ones in South Africa protected by shark nets, so attacks are very rare. Waters are warm, and with 300-plus days of sunshine, nearly everyday is the perfect opportunity to hit the beach.
Plants from the dinosaur eras are growing in the Durban Botanic Gardens. The gardens have been open since 1849 and house a plethora of flora.
Durban is known for its spicy curries. A locally invented dish called a “bunny” is worth a taste. It’s a half loaf of bread hollowed out and filled with mutton, chicken, or vegetable curry. Try a beer and bunny at Goundens.
Durban motorhome guide
A couple of handy things to know for your campervan holiday in Durban:
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There are between 130 and 160 different species of snakes in South Africa -most of them are not dangerous to humans. The Black Mamba and Puff Adder are snakes to look out for.
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December through February is South Africa’s main holiday period, when temperatures are at their peak.
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Remember to register to camp at information centres.