Durban Shopping and Districts

(Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa)

Durban has some great places to shop, from open-air markets and small independent stores, to a multitude of high street chains and massive shopping centres. It's certainly well worth experiencing at least one visit to one of Durban's famous shopping centres during your stay.

It is also a good idea to take time out to venture into the centre of Durban to browse its many specialist shops, including those selling wine and food, and soak up the downtown atmosphere.

When to Shop and Opening Hours

Shops in Durban generally open from 09:00 to 18:00. However, the city's shopping centres do tend to stay open longer in the evening, particularly at the weekend. The larger centres may also have occasional special late night opening hours during the year.

Where to Shop

The Gateway Mall, situated in Umhlanga, is reputed to be the largest shopping centre in the southern hemisphere. It has a wide variety of shops, a supermarket, over 30 restaurants and some unusual entertainment facilities. These include a Wavepool, where you can learn to surf, and even a rock climbing wall.

The Pavilion opens its doors to more than 1.7 million shoppers every month and rates highly among Durban's most popular shopping centres. Located in the city's Westville district, the Pavilion is home to shops that sell everything from gifts and jewellery to fashion and mobile phones. There are also restaurants, cinemas and banking facilities.

Other shopping centres include Richdens Village Centre, located in the picturesque Kloof district, and the Sanlam Centre in Pinetown, on the outskirts of Durban.

Visitors who venture out into the city for shopping won't be disappointed. There are plenty of department stores and high street chains to satisfy the most ardent shopper and to sample South African fashion, there are boutiques too.

Gifts to take back home can be found at Durban's street markets, including Victoria Street Market and The Workshop, an outdoor market that sells pretty much everything. The Golden Hours Rustic Market in Durban North is held every Sunday and sells toys, food, pottery and homewares.

If you fancy a spot of haggling whilst shopping, Durban's beachfront vendors are usually prepared to bargain on a range of African curios.