Things to see in Durban

Established in 1849, the gardens feature a variety of plants but the main collections are cycads, orchids, bromeliads and palms, plus 80 heritage trees, some of which are more than 100 years old. Highlights include an orchid house, a herb garden, a sunken garden and the garden for the blind. The Kwazulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra performs at a lake on selected Sundays throughout the year.

Daily 0730-1715 (winter); daily 0730-1745 (summer).

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Housed in the notorious former Native Administration Department, from which Durban's labour control system was administered in apartheid times, this museum tells the tale of darker times, and aims to offer an unbiased interpretation of life for ordinary South Africans under the old regime. Ironically, the building itself it something to admire with its arch lined verandag and copper-covered entrance doors.

Mon-Sat 0830-1600.

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Although open by appointment only (the best way to see this museum is as part of an organised tour) this is well worth the effort. It includes the Mashu Museum of Ethnology, a major collection of native cultural items, and a major photographic and literary archive.

Mon-Tues and Fri 0900-1500.

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Once a Court House and now a museum, this is the oldest public building in Durban which survived both the South African Wars and the Bhambatha Uprising. In the 21st century, it was a canteen and recruitment centre during the two World Wars. The building was often visited by MK Gandhi as a young Durban lawyer, who went on to challenge life under colonial rule. Now, the largest history museum in the city, it features the "Durban Room", an early pharmacy and a haberdashery store.

Mon-Sat 0830-1600, Sun 1100-1600.

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