Yes, March is a great time to visit Durban, South Africa. Here’s why:
Cultural Events:
- Durban International Film Festival: One of the largest film festivals on the African continent, showcasing a diverse range of local and international films.
- National Arts Festival Grahamstown: A renowned arts festival featuring theater, dance, music, and visual arts performances in Durban and nearby Grahamstown.
- Zulu Reed Dance: A traditional Zulu cultural event where young women perform a vibrant dance to demonstrate their grace and beauty.
Food and Wine:
- Durban International Food Fest: A culinary extravaganza celebrating the city’s diverse culinary scene with a range of food stalls, cooking demonstrations, and live music.
- Umhlanga Oyster Festival: A popular seafood festival with oyster tastings, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
Natural Beauty:
- Whale Watching: March is the peak whale-watching season, offering opportunities to spot humpback whales migrating along the coastline.
- Golden Mile Beach: A stretch of pristine coastline perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the ocean views.
- Umgeni River Bird Park: Home to over 2,000 birds from around the world, providing a glimpse into Durban’s rich avian diversity.
Other Attractions:
- Moses Mabhida Stadium: A world-renowned stadium that hosted matches during the 2010 FIFA World Cup. It offers breathtaking views from its SkyCar and Adventure Walk.
- uShaka Marine World: A large marine theme park with a variety of aquariums, dolphin shows, and other marine attractions.
- Victoria Street Market: A vibrant market with a mix of African crafts, souvenirs, and local cuisine.
Weather In Durban During March
March is the beginning of autumn in Durban, South Africa. The weather during this month is generally pleasant, with warm days and cool nights.
Temperature:
- Average high: 26°C (79°F)
- Average low: 18°C (64°F)
- Average temperature: 22°C (72°F)
Rainfall:
- Average rainfall: 120mm (4.7 inches)
- Number of rainy days: 10-12
Humidity:
- Average humidity: 75%
Wind:
- Average wind speed: 20 km/h (12 mph)
Sunshine:
- Average sunshine hours: 8-9 per day
Other:
- Clear skies are common, with occasional showers or thunderstorms.
- The days are shorter, with sunrise around 6:30am and sunset around 6:30pm.
- The ocean temperature is warm, averaging around 24°C (75°F).
- Overall, March is a good time to visit Durban for outdoor activities and beach vacations.
Things To Do In Durban In March
Festivals and Celebrations Unique to March in Durban:
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Durban Day Parade: Held on March 25, this parade celebrates the founding of Durban. Featuring floats, marching bands, and cultural performances, it’s a vibrant showcase of the city’s diversity.
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Durban International Film Festival (DIFF): Typically held in March or early April, DIFF showcases local and international films, including premieres, special screenings, and workshops.
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Franschhoek Literary Festival: Located in the nearby town of Franschhoek, this festival features renowned authors, literary discussions, and book signings. It may overlap with March.
Other Activities and Attractions in March:
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Visit the Golden Mile: Stroll along this iconic beachfront promenade, enjoying spectacular ocean views, golden sands, and various shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
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Explore uShaka Marine World: This massive theme park offers a combination of marine exhibits, water slides, and thrilling rides. Visit the dolphinarium, shark tank, and Penguin and Puffin exhibit.
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Go on a Wildlife Safari: Day trips to nearby game reserves, such as Phezulu Safari Park or Tala Private Game Reserve, allow you to spot elephants, rhinos, lions, and other African wildlife.
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Visit Moses Mabhida Stadium: Ascend the iconic “SkyCar” to the arch spanning the stadium for panoramic city views. Take a guided tour of the stadium for behind-the-scenes insights.
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Discover Victoria Street Market: This eclectic market in the heart of the city features stalls selling fresh produce, artisanal crafts, antiques, and food from various cultures.
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Attend a Local Zulu Traditional Dance Show: Engage with the rich cultural heritage of the Zulu people at a traditional dance performance. Experience the rhythmic beats of drums and witness performers adorned in vibrant costumes.
Tourism In Durban, South Africa During March
During March, Durban’s tourism scene flourishes as the city basks in the vibrant energy of festivals and cultural events celebrating its diverse heritage.
The Durban International Film Festival, renowned for showcasing a wide range of local and international films, attracts cinephiles and film enthusiasts alike. The event offers a platform for aspiring filmmakers to showcase their work and gain recognition.
Coinciding with the film festival is the Durban Music Experience, a vibrant celebration of music that brings together an eclectic mix of local and international musicians. From soulful jazz to energetic hip-hop, the festival caters to every musical taste, creating an unforgettable auditory experience.
Beyond these cultural events, Durban’s tourism offerings continue to captivate visitors. The iconic Golden Mile beachfront, with its mesmerizing views of the Indian Ocean, invites leisurely strolls, sunbathing, and swimming. The vibrant promenade bustles with activity as locals and tourists enjoy the array of restaurants, bars, and shops.
Adventure enthusiasts can embark on an adrenaline-pumping surf session at one of Durban’s renowned surf spots, such as North Beach or Addington Beach. The city’s warm waters and consistent waves provide an ideal setting for both beginners and experienced surfers.
For a deeper dive into Durban’s rich history and culture, visitors can explore the KwaZulu-Natal Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the province’s natural and cultural heritage. The BAT Centre, a repurposed industrial building, has transformed into a thriving cultural hub, offering a dynamic program of art exhibitions, workshops, and performances.
Durban’s culinary scene is a blend of traditional Zulu flavors and international influences, offering a delectable array of dining options. From authentic street food to fine-dining experiences, visitors can embark on a culinary journey that tantalizes their taste buds.
As the month progresses, the city gears up for the Easter weekend, which brings a surge of domestic and international tourists. The atmosphere in Durban is electric, with families and friends gathering for picnics, beach activities, and special events. The Easter weekend provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the vibrant local culture and festivities.
In summary, Durban’s tourism scene in March is a kaleidoscope of cultural extravaganzas, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights, offering a memorable and enriching experience for visitors of all ages and interests.
