🚍 Overview of Public Transport in Durban

Durban, located in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, offers several modes of public transportation for tourists:

1. Buses

2. Minibus Taxis

3. Trains

4. Uber/Taxi Services

Each has its advantages and quirks, so knowing how to navigate them will save you time and money.

🚌 1. Buses

Durban Transport (DT)

• Network: DT buses cover the main city areas, including the beachfront (Golden Mile), Durban Central, and Umlazi.

• Tickets: Purchase onboard or at bus terminals. Cash is often required.

• Pros: Affordable and relatively safe.

• Cons: Limited frequency outside central routes.

People Mover Bus (City Sightseeing)

• Route: Designed for tourists along the Golden Mile beachfront.

• Ticket: Purchase a day-pass for unlimited travel.

• Pros: Hop-on, hop-off convenience; great for sightseeing.

🚖 2. Minibus Taxis

• Function: These are privately operated vans covering almost every route in Durban.

• Cost: Cheaper than buses; cash only.

• Pros: Extensive network.

• Cons: Can be confusing for first-time visitors; often crowded; not ideal for tourists unfamiliar with routes.

Tip: Ask locals or your hotel staff for safe and recommended taxi routes.

🚆 3. Trains

• Operator: Metrorail KwaZulu-Natal

• Routes: Connects Durban Central with suburbs like Amanzimtoti, Pinetown, and Chatsworth.

• Pros: Scenic coastal rides; cheap fares.

• Cons: Safety can be a concern, especially after dark.

Tip: Stick to daytime travel and keep belongings secure.

🚗 4. Ride-Hailing Services

• Uber & Bolt: Widely available in Durban.

• Pros: Convenient, cashless, door-to-door service.

• Cons: More expensive than public buses or taxis.

💡 Tips for Tourists

1. Plan Your Route: Download apps like Uber, Moovit, or Google Maps to check bus and train schedules.

2. Safety First: Avoid empty buses or trains late at night; keep valuables secure.

3. Cash & Cards: Carry small cash for buses and minibus taxis; most ride-hailing services accept cards.

4. Ask Locals: Hotel staff or guesthouse hosts often provide the best advice on safe routes.

5. Time Your Travel: Durban traffic can be heavy during peak hours (7–9 AM and 4–6 PM).

🌊 Must-Visit Spots Accessible by Public Transport

• Durban Beachfront (Golden Mile) – DT bus & People Mover

• uShaka Marine World – People Mover or taxi

• Moses Mabhida Stadium – DT bus or Uber

• Victoria Street Market – DT bus or taxi

• Mahatma Gandhi Road / Indian Quarter – Minibus taxi or Uber

Using Durban’s public transport can be affordable and fun if you plan ahead. For tourists, combining buses for sightseeing with Uber or Bolt for convenience is often the easiest approach.