School holidays are the perfect opportunity to spend time together as a family. The current cost of living has meant that families have had to cut down on expenditure, so we have put together a list of budget-friendly activities that are free of charge, under R50, and under R100, that the whole family can enjoy.
Free of charge:
Westville Eco Trails
Explore this piece of paradise in the heart of Westville at 33A Beverley Drive. This pristine forest is a popular walking, trail running and mountain bike route home to diverse fauna, flora and birdlife. While visiting the Eco Trails is free of charge, donations are welcome to assist with maintenance.
www.westvillecc.co.za/activities/eco-trails
Palmiet Nature Reserve Westville
Located on Edgecliff Rd in Westville, you can expect spectacular cliffs, a flowing river, a tranquil forest and grassland. Over 150 birds and 170 tree species call this nature reserve home. It also offers 10km of trails, and you can join a guided trail on the 1st Sunday of the month at 8.30 am. There is no charge, but donations are welcome. The reserve also offers braai and picnic sites for your family to enjoy.
Beach
The gem of Durban, the beautiful Golden Mile, offers exquisite beaches stretching from Ushaka Beach to Blue Lagoon. The best beaches for the family to enjoy a day of swimming include North beach, known for its relatively calm waters for safe swimming and vibrant activities, and uShaka Beach, which is family-friendly and popular for kayaking, kite surfing and surfing.
Under R50:
The Fun Company Mini-Golf at The Pavillion Westville
Head out for mini-golf that offers fun for the whole family! You’ll receive a glow-in-the-dark golf ball, and you can choose to embark on the 9 or 18-hole miniature golf course. It costs R40 per person per round.
Umngeni Rail Train
The Inchanga Choo Choo runs on the last Sunday of each month unless their schedule states otherwise. You can enjoy a 3 hour morning ride or a 3 ½ hour afternoon ride. On both trips, the train stops at Inchanga where the Inchanga Conservancy organises a craft market with food and beverage stalls and a picnic area to relax. While you are there, visit the museum in the Station Master’s House next to the station. The train will be running on the 10th of July as part of a fundraiser. Tickets are R50 per person per ride.
Westville Swimming Pool
Pool days are one of the best ways to keep the kids entertained! We are so fortunate to have great weather in Durban that we can even enjoy the pool in winter. Westville Swimming Pool is on Saint James Avenue, Dawncliffe, Westville and the admission fee is R12. You will find friendly lifeguards on duty.
Under R100:
Giba Gorge
Just outside Pinetown lies Giba Gorge Adventure Park – perfect for adventure enthusiasts or anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors. There is something for all ages – whether it’s kids dashing around the BMX track, mountain bikers, trail runners and hikers making use of the trails or the families enjoying a picnic on the lawn or relaxing in the outdoor restaurant.
The entrance fees are as follows:
Adult Rider: R85
Child Rider (under 12yrs): R55
Pensioner rider: R55
Trail Runner: R45
Hiker/Walker: R35
Non-Rider/Walker: R20
Breakfast at Home Ground Kids & Coffee
Enjoy your coffee and breakfast while your kids play safely. This restaurant is at 6 Church Place, Westville and is a haven of endless fun for kids to enjoy while parents indulge in peace of mind and good food and coffee. View their delicious menu here: www.facebook.com/homegrounddbn/menu
The Fun Company Tenpin Bowling at The Pavillion Westville
No matter your age, tenpin bowling offers a fun day out for the whole family! The Fun Company at Pavillion offers 8 to 10 lanes, with an electronic scoring system and a glow-in-the-dark evening option and will cost you R70 per person per game.
www.thefuncompany.co.za/welcome-4/super-bowling
We hope this list helps you plan a budget-friendly holiday and allows you to explore some hidden gems in and around Durban West. Keep your eyes on our Instagram and Facebook pages to stay up to date with events and activities in Durban West!
