Durban's summer revival: a local's guide to the city’s comeback

Summer is here, and Durban is ready to shine again.

That’s according to Southern Sun and Durban Tourism, who recently partnered to host a media experience aimed at encouraging locals to rediscover the city’s charm.

Durban is having a “comeback moment”, according to Samantha Croft, Southern Sun’s operations director for the KwaZulu-Natal region.

“People have started noticing the improvements and cleanliness in our city. It’s not just about the beaches - Durban has so much more to offer,” she explained.

“We’re really focusing on the local market. We understand that other cities might be first choices for international visitors, and that’s okay. It just means we need to make sure locals know there’s plenty for them to do here, too. Over the past year, things have genuinely improved.”

Hlengiwe Dube, the senior manager at Durban Tourism, echoed this sentiment, adding that Durban is determined to reclaim its place in South Africa’s tourism scene.

“We love our South Africans, we love our locals,” she says. “Hotels and establishments like Southern Sun run campaigns that allow locals to experience and participate in the tourism economy.”

Rediscovering Durban through a local’s eyes

As a Durban local, I had the chance to experience my own city as a tourist - and it gave me a new appreciation for what Durban has to offer.

Our first stop was a beach horse-riding adventure in Amanzimtoti, south of the city. As someone who’s grown up in the area, I couldn’t believe I had never tried this before.

Gary’s Horses, which has been operating for about 24 years, offers guided horse rides along the beach - a serene, scenic experience right on our doorstep.

I’ll admit, as an empath, horse riding isn’t quite for me. I’m too aware of the horses’ emotions and movements to fully relax and enjoy the ride. Still, being on the beach and interacting with the animals up close was a beautiful experience.

Exploring Durban’s story

We also toured the city and explored some of its historical landmarks - from the Durban Botanical Gardens to learning how the city got its name. As someone who loves history, discovering the origins of my hometown was incredibly fulfilling.

Durban is more than just where I live - it’s part of my story, and learning its history made me feel even more connected to it.

A taste of Durban’s nightlife

To wrap up the experience, we explored Durban’s nightlife and shisanyama culture at Mojo’s Carwash and Shisanyama in Mayville.

It’s no secret that South Africans love a good braai, and Mojo’s delivers on that front - lively atmosphere, good music, great food and that unmistakable Durban energy.

Final thoughts

Durban is stepping confidently back into the spotlight. With cleaner streets, revitalised attractions, and a renewed sense of local pride, the city is once again proving why it’s one of South Africa’s favourite destinations - not just for visitors, but for locals too.