On 30 April 2004, the world’s fifth-largest aquarium opened to the public. There is a reason why uShaka Marine World is first on our list of 30 Things to do in Durban – this is a universe of entertainment offering endless fun, excitement and uniqueness! Stick around and have an in-depth look at some of the things you can do at the world-class uShaka Marine World.
Planning a trip to Durban? Looking for things to do? Check out these pages below:
1. Dine at the Cargo Hold
Get onboard the Phantom Ship and prepare yourself for the best dining experience yet! Cargo Hold offers the opportunity to dine with the sharks while taking in spectacular views of their tank and the ocean. On the menu, you will find flavours from across the globe… and meals are prepared with only the finest of KZN’s local products.
Operating hours:
Monday & Tuesday (5 pm – 9 pm)
Wednesday – Saturday (12 pm – 9 pm)
Sunday (12 pm – 3 pm)
2. Watch an animal show
If dolphins or penguins hold a special place in your heart, these viewings at Sea World would undoubtedly be one of the best things to do at uShaka Marine World! The Dolphin Stadium houses up to 1200 spectators, so almost anyone can get the chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their prime. You can also head to the Penguin Rookery and see what over 63 African Penguins are up to!
Operating hours:
Dolphin show – Daily (11:30 am – 3 pm)
Penguin viewing – Daily (9 am – 5 pm)
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3. Encounter Dangerous Creatures
At Dangerous Creatures, you will be taken from fear to fascination! Explore this reptile exhibit that holds the world’s most venomous creatures. You can even snap a photo with the humongous on-site anaconda – don’t worry… it is just a sculpture, so you won’t be harmed in any way! This adventurous site can be found in uShaka Marine World’s Village Walk.
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday (10 am – 4:30 pm)
4. Swim at uShaka Beach
It is inevitable for uShaka Beach to make the list of things to do at uShaka Marine World! Being one of the best beaches in Durban, you can have your fair share of activities – from kayaking to kite surfing! These are especially put in place for you and the family to make the best memories to date!
The best thing about the beach is that it is open all year round with FREE entry!
5. Take a dive in Snorkel Lagoon
Now is your chance to take up snorkelling at Sea Animal Encounters Island. Get acquainted with the fish of the KZN coastline waters in the best way possible! Remember to bring along a towel and bathing suit that is suitable for this exhilarating excursion.
Operating hours: Monday & Tuesday (9:30 am – 4:30 pm)
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6. Do the Village Walk
What would your adventure at uShaka Marine World be without undertaking a shopping spree? Venture through the open-air Village Walk and visit the wide variety of curio shops, clothing stores and restaurants. It is open all year round with free entry. This will make for one unique shopping experience!
The restaurants are open for takeaway, delivery, call and collect as well as sit-down meals.
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday (9 am – 6 pm)
7. Experience Chimp & Zee
It’s a rope adventure park and it’s waiting to be challenged by you! Chimp & Zee has Africa’s longest continuous belay system and more – is there a better way to test your limits? Well-trained guides will supply you with the necessary gear and information to take on the journey.
Remember to bring along:
- Closed shoes (or take on the adventure barefoot!)
- Sunscreen
- Hair ties for longer hair
- Comfortable clothing
Operating hours:
Wednesday – Friday (10 am – 5 pm)
Saturday – Sunday (9 am – 5 pm)
A minimum height of 1.2 m and a maximum weight of 120 kg required
8. Get Wet ‘n Wild
Wet ‘n Wild caters to all – the young, the old, the adrenaline junkies and the less adventurous ones. At this fresh and fun water world you will find the following rides:
- Mamba Tunnel Slide
- The Body Tornado
- Cuda: Supertube
- Squid: Mini Supertube
- Torpedo: Kamikaze Speed Slide
- Zoom Zoom: Multi Lane Racer
- The Drop Zone (The Rush)
- Plunge: Free Fall Slide
- Jika Jika (Family Rafter)
Operating hours: Wednesday – Sunday (9 am – 5 pm)
9. Feed the animals
Take a step in the waters and make new friends by feeding uShaka Marine World’s beloved animals! Take a look at who you can feed at the aquarium and Sea World:
- Spotted Eagle Rays Feed (Booking is essential as limited space is available – should be made before 12 pm)
- Open Ocean Feed (Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Sunday – 11 am)
- Large Shark Feed (Wednesday, Friday & Sunday – 2 pm)
- Snorkel Lagoon Feed (Monday, Wednesday & Saturday – 11 am)
- Snorkel Lagoon Feed (Friday – 12 pm)
- Reef Predator Feed (Tuesday & Thursday – 12 pm)
- Reef Predator Feed (Saturday – 2 pm)
- Rocky Reef Feed (Tuesday & Thursday – 2 pm)
- Penguin Feed (Daily – 9:30 am & 4 pm)
10. Drink cocktails at Wahooz
This spot is believed to be the coolest lunch, cocktail and sundowners venue on the promenade! This is why visiting Wahooz is one of the top things to do at uShaka Marine World. If you make your way to this restaurant over the weekend, you can be treated to soothing live music while watching the sunset and chilling with your friends and family. You have to eat, right? So, why not do so at Wahooz?
Operating hours:
Monday – Friday (8 am – 5 pm)
Saturday & Sunday (8 am – 6 pm)
