Experience Durban: your go-to destination for incredible value and memorable moments

If you’re looking for value for money, Durban is your destination.

Those were the words of Ronelle Pillay, regional revenue and sales manager at Southern Sun.

Southern Sun recently launched its annual SunBreaks Summer Campaign, which offers travellers discounted stays between December 1 and January 11, 2026.

“As much as we are about selling experiences and occupancy, the key is selling Durban as a destination,” said Pillay.

“It’s only through collaboration that we can truly make a difference in why travellers choose Durban for their next trip.”

She explained that the campaign was designed to provide value-for-money packages tailored specifically for the South African market.

“For Durban, we’ve always believed our edge is being the ultimate road-trip destination - not just for locals in KZN, but also for Gautengers looking for a long weekend or a four-night getaway. While the beach is always there, there’s so much more to explore.”

And explore we did.

In partnership with Durban Tourism, Southern Sun gave us a taste of what makes the city shine.

The second leg of our media hosting kicked off with breakfast at The Edward Hotel, a reminder that Durban is every bit the tropical destination it’s known to be.

We enjoyed an indulgent continental breakfast overlooking OR Tambo Parade (formerly Marine Parade).

Just a few kilometres from The Edward and Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani, a statue of Oliver Tambo will soon be unveiled - a fitting tribute in the heart of Durban’s beachfront.

After breakfast, we hit the road for a family-friendly adventure at Highstakes Venue in Cato Ridge.

Nestled on 150 hectares of scenic countryside, Highstakes offers something for everyone.

Adrenaline junkies can take their pick from quad biking, ziplining, paintball, archery, and clay pigeon shooting, while others can relax on the deck or enjoy a drink at the licensed bar.

I opted for the quad biking - simple, safe and exhilarating.

A quick briefing, helmet secured, and I was off!

From there, we made our way to PheZulu Safari Park in Botha’s Hill for a game drive.

We spotted antelope, wildebeest, and giraffes roaming freely in the conservancy and took in the breathtaking views of the Valley of a Thousand Hills.

Our final stop was back in Durban for lunch at Elements Café Bar at the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel in uMhlanga.

The Beverly Hills Hotel is a five-star gem synonymous with luxury, ocean views, and impeccable service.

Guests can choose from a range of elegant rooms and suites, many with private balconies overlooking the Indian Ocean.

I got a sneak peek of one of their cabanas, offering ground-level views of the pool and ocean, and a deluxe room on the seventh floor with sweeping 180-degree ocean views.

From the beachfront to the hills, Durban proved that value and experience can go hand in hand - a destination that’s not only affordable but unforgettable.