If you live in the beautiful city of Durban you might frequent the beaches, but do you know of all the other fun activities in the area? In this article, we will list all the outdoor kids activities in Durban that will keep your child entertained and active.
The Importance of Outdoor Activities
Getting your kids outdoors is extremely important, especially when a child is homeschooled or is enrolled in an online school. In traditional schools, children are encouraged to play outside and interact with their peers at least once a day. Not only does this allow them to move their bodies and play, but it also gives them a chance to take in some fresh air.
Play has always been an important part of education, and homeschooling parents sometimes need some fresh ideas on ways to engage their children's creativity and curiosity through play and outdoor activities.
10 Things to Do in Durban with Kids
Now that you know why it’s important to get your child out of the house and into the great outdoors, let's jump into a list of 10 fun things to do with your kids in Durban.
1. uShaka Marine World
While uShaka Marine World is one of the best-known attractions in Durban, and you have probably been there before, we can’t leave it off of this list. uShaka is Africa’s largest aquarium, meaning that your kids can wonder at the sight of these marine creatures while learning about life under the sea.
They also have a theme park where children can enjoy rides, slides, pools and more. There are even feeding times for some of the marine life that kids can join in on, making uShaka Marine World is the perfect full-day outing!
You can find out more about all of their various activities and offerings here.
2. Funworld
If you are on the hunt for a new theme park, then Funworld is the place for you and your children. Located on a beachfront, this amusement park has a large variety of rides that both kids and adults can enjoy. Entrance to this park is free, with you only having to pay for the rides you wish to experience.
You can find out more about all they have to offer here.
3. Groovy Balls Park
If your children are quite active and enjoy a bit of exhilaration, then the Groovy Balls Park could be the perfect family outing. Here children are secured into large transparent plastic balls. The children can then roll along the ground or downhill depending on the amount of excitement you desire. They also have an off-road go-kart track for those children that love all things with wheels.
You can find out more about this fun and exhilarating activity by visiting their Facebook Page here.
4. Hillcrest Paintball
Paintball is another extremely fun activity for children of varying ages. At Hillcrest Paintball, children will be able to choose between two settings consisting of “African Bushveld” or “Swat-Team-Style”. The minimum group size required is 4, making this the perfect venue for a playdate or even a party.
You can read more about this experience and make a booking on their website.
5. Isle of Capri Cruises
Whether you want to take your kids whale watching or desire a relaxing cruise around the harbour with the wind in their hair and sun on their faces, Isle of Capri Cruises has an option for you. They have a wide variety of cruises to choose from, allowing you to take your children on an ocean adventure. The best part is that their pricing is very reasonable!
You can view all of their options on their website.
6. Crocodile Creek
If your kids are fascinated by dinosaurs and other reptiles then Crocodile Creek is the place to be. They have a wide variety of crocodiles to spectate. Each group is led on a guided tour where the majesty of these ancient reptiles is showcased. After the tour, children can enjoy the play area and you can even sit down to have a bite to eat.
You can find out more about Crocodile Creek here.
7. Umgeni River Bird Park
If crocodiles don’t particularly interest your child, but they are fascinated by birds, then the Umgeni River Bird Park might just be the perfect destination for your family. They have an astonishing variety of birds with 220 different species to behold. Set in a lush landscape with cliffs, waterfalls, and ponds, this park is as beautiful as it is interesting and educational. Who knows, your child might even pick up birdwatching as a hobby.
You can find out more on their Facebook Page by clicking here.
8. Flag Animal Farm
If your kids are into cuddly farm animals then they can have fun petting, feeding, and spending time with goats, chickens, and other farm animals at the Flag Animal Farm. They can also take pony rides, train rides, learn how to milk cows and more! They can even see a real live wolf as the Flag Animal Farm has two wolves on the property. All of the animals at this farm have been rescued and given a loving and safe environment to thrive.
You can find out more about the Flag Animal Farm and its activities here.
9. Mitchell Park Zoo
For a more diverse look at animal life and to encounter exotic animals such as elephants, you can visit the Mitchell Park Zoo. Originally an ostrich farm, this zoo has flourished into a haven where children can learn about and see animals from all corners of the globe.
You can find the Mitchell Park Zoo’s location by clicking here.
10. Paradise Valley
If you are in the mood for a day surrounded by nature and a walk along picturesque trails, then Paradise Valley is the perfect destination. Here, you will be able to walk along the famous Umbilo River and even see a beautiful waterfall. This is a wonderful way for you and your children to get in touch with nature.
You can find out more about the valley and its 4 beautiful trails by visiting their website.
Connecting with Other Homeschooling Families
When partaking in these activities and visiting these places, it can be the perfect opportunity to organise a play date. If you find it difficult to connect with other parents as a homeschooling parent, you can join a homeschooling group that is specific to the Durban area. Here, you can reach out to other parents, and organise a date and time to meet up, so that your children can make new friends.
One of the groups you can join is the KwaZulu-Natal Homeschooling Association. You can find the Facebook Group here.
You can also join the CambriLearn Facebook Group as parents often connect with one another there. You can join our Facebook Group here.
Now that you have the means to connect to other homeschooling parents and know about all the outdoor kids activities in Durban, there will be no more questions concerning what to do on the weekends!
