Durban Walking Tours

Durban Walking Tours is a small guiding company that shows visitors and residents the parts of the city that are hard to explore alone. Its guides won the Durban Tourism Tour Guide award in 2022, 2023 and 2024, and the walks focus on the history, architecture, food and communities of the older parts of Durban, including the story of the Indian indentured labourers whose first ship arrived in 1860.

The programme covers several distinct areas. Point Walks explore the old harbour district at the southern end of the city centre. Grey Street Walks take you through the historic Indian commercial quarter around Dr Yusuf Dadoo Street, home to the Juma Masjid and the Madressa Arcade, and a Market Tour focuses on the city's trading markets. A Bangladesh Markets and Temples walk heads to markets and places of worship, Monastery Walks are also on the programme, and Florida Road Walks look at the Edwardian buildings and cafe culture of Morningside. There is also a Children Activity Tour designed for younger explorers.

Walking with a guide is the most comfortable way for first-time visitors to see Durban's busy city centre, as the guides know the routes and the history and can help you move confidently through crowded streets. The walks suit history buffs, food lovers, photographers, families and anyone curious about the Indian and Zulu heritage that shapes the city.

Walks run on set dates listed on the company's tour calendar, so check what is coming up before your trip and book in advance by phone, email or through the website. Confirm the meeting point for your route when you book. Wear comfortable shoes, a hat and sunscreen, carry water and only the cash you need, and leave valuables at your hotel. Ask whether food tastings are included on market and Grey Street walks.

Combining a guided walk with independent visits works well. After a Grey Street walk, for example, you could return to the Victoria Street Market to shop at your own pace or visit the free museums around City Hall. A Point walk pairs naturally with uShaka Marine World or a harbour cruise.