Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Durban. King Shaka International Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 75 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave DUR:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for South Africa. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Durban takes about 75 minutes by Airport Shuttle / Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is ZAR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
How to Get Into Durban
You have two main options for getting from King Shaka International Airport into town:
- Airport Shuttle / Taxi: About 75 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 95 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Durban, budget roughly $27 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $11 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $6 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Durban, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Durban:
Start with Moses Mabhida Stadium SkyCar. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Durban. Then, if time allows, make your way to Durban Golden Mile Beachfront. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
If you’d rather stay inside DUR — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Bidvest Premier Lounge
- Duty-Free Shopping
Eating Well on a Durban Layover
In Durban
If you make it into town, Britannia Hotel Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Wahooz @ uShaka Marine World.
Inside DUR
If you’re staying in the terminal, Mugg & Bean is your main option. Ocean Basket works too if you want something quick.
Luggage Storage Options
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At DUR, you’ll find bag storage at Luggage storage/lockers are not readily available within the terminal at King Shaka International Airport..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and DUR is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Durban and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at DUR.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Durban genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.