Cidade Turismo
South Africa

Before you go

Your trip to Umhlanga.

Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.

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Umhlanga – KwaZulu-Natal Destination Durban and the northern coast

How to get there

  • Aeroporto Internacional King Shaka (DUR) La Mercy · 18 km

Approximate road distances. Check flights and bus schedules before you travel.

From King Shaka Airport (DUR), Umhlanga is about 18 km via the N2 and the M4, roughly a 20-minute drive. From Durban city centre it’s about 15 km via the M4. Taxis and ride-hailing apps serve the area well.

How many days

Two or three days for the beach, the promenade and a visit to the Sharks Board. Umhlanga also serves as a base to visit Durban and Ballito.

When to go

Winter is dry and mild, with pleasant beach weather. Summer is hot and humid, and beaches are crowded in December and January.

The seasons shown are the most usual ones; nature doesn't always follow the calendar.

Do you need a car?

Not needed for the seafront and town centre, which are walkable. For the Sharks Board, Durban and Ballito, ride‑hailing apps and taxis are the solution.

Suggested itinerary

An order that works

Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.

One day in Umhlanga
  1. Morning
    Promenade and lighthouse

    Walk along the promenade from the lighthouse to the pier, stopping at the beaches.

  2. Afternoon
    Sharks Board

    Visit the KZN Sharks Board and attend the presentation about the coastal sharks.

  3. Late afternoon
    Umhlanga lagoon

    Take the trail through the lagoon reserve to the beach, between the coastal forest and the dunes.

  4. Evening
    Dinner in the village

    Dine at a village restaurant near the beach.

Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.

Before you go

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Umhlanga?

Walk the lighthouse promenade, go to the beach, visit the KZN Sharks Board and the Umhlanga lagoon reserve.

How far is Umhlanga from Durban?

About 15 km north of the city centre, roughly 20 minutes.

Is Umhlanga close to the airport?

Yes, about 18 km from King Shaka Airport.

Do Umhlanga’s beaches have lifeguards?

Yes, the main beaches have lifeguards and shark-protection nets.

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