February is an excellent time to visit Durban because it is during the city’s vibrant summer season. The atmosphere is electric with numerous events and festivals taking place throughout the month. One of the highlights is the Durban Jazz Festival, which attracts renowned local and international artists. The balmy weather provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s beaches, parks, and gardens. Additionally, February marks the start of the Sardine Run, a spectacular natural phenomenon where vast shoals of sardines migrate along the coast, attracting marine predators and creating an unforgettable sight.
Weather In Durban During February
February is one of the warmest months in Durban, South Africa.
- Average temperature: 24°C (75°F)
- Average high temperature: 29°C (84°F)
- Average low temperature: 21°C (70°F)
- Average rainfall: 110mm (4.3in)
- Average humidity: 75%
- Average sunshine: 8 hours per day
February is characterized by hot and humid days with occasional thunderstorms. The nights are warm and humid, with temperatures rarely dropping below 20°C (68°F).
The sea temperature averages 25°C (77°F), making it ideal for swimming and water sports.
Tips for visiting Durban in February:
- Bring sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Wear lightweight, breathable clothing.
- Be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.
Things To Do In Durban In February
Festivals and Celebrations in Durban, South Africa in February:
1. Durban Carnival: (held on a weekend in February)
- A vibrant street carnival featuring parades, music, dance, floats, and cultural performances showcasing the diverse heritage of Durban.
2. International Tattoo: (usually held in early February)
- A military and cultural extravaganza featuring marching bands, pipe bands, dancers, and performers from around the world.
3. Chinese New Year Celebrations: (late January or early February)
- Festive celebrations honoring Chinese culture, featuring lion dances, parades, and traditional performances at temples in and around Durban.
4. Sri Lankan Tamil Thai Pongal Festival: (mid-January to mid-February)
- A thanksgiving harvest festival celebrated by the Tamil community in Durban, marked by boiling sweet rice in clay pots and decorating homes with traditional items.
5. Durban Zulu Reed Dance: (held in early February)
- A traditional Zulu ceremony where young women perform a reed dance to celebrate nationhood and cultural heritage.
6. New Earth Music Festival: (usually held in late February)
- A music festival showcasing a wide range of genres, including rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronic music, featuring local and international artists.
Unique Things to See and Do in Durban in February:
- Visit the Durban Botanic Gardens: Admire an array of tropical and indigenous plants, including the iconic cycad collection.
- Explore Umhlanga Rocks: Discover upscale hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls along this scenic coastline.
- Take a Beach Safari at Mangrove Beach: Embark on a thrilling drive through untouched beaches, witnessing wildlife such as flamingos and crocodiles.
- Visit the Moses Mabhida Stadium: Admire the iconic archway and ascend the Big Swing for panoramic views of the city and coastline.
- Enjoy a Sundowner Cruise: Experience the breathtaking sunset over the Indian Ocean on a scenic boat trip.
Tourism In Durban, South Africa During February
During February, Durban’s tourism sector bustles with activity due to its prime location on the Indian Ocean coastline and numerous attractions. The city’s vibrant beachfront promenade, the Golden Mile, is a popular destination for sunseekers, bathers, and surfers. The uShaka Marine World, a world-renowned entertainment complex, offers an unforgettable experience with its thrilling water rides, dolphin and seal shows, and a diverse array of marine life. The Durban Botanic Gardens showcases a stunning collection of indigenous and exotic plants, providing a serene oasis within the city. For history enthusiasts, the Apartheid Museum serves as a poignant reminder of the city’s past and its struggle for freedom. The bustling Victoria Street Market is a haven for shoppers looking for unique curios, textiles, and souvenirs.