World by City

Theme parks

uShaka Marine World

Open in Maps
uShaka Marine World

Overview

uShaka Marine World is a coastal theme park in Durban that opened in 2000. Visitors go primarily to see its large aquarium, which houses approximately 10,000 species of marine life, alongside outdoor water park attractions and educational exhibits.

Getting There

Located at the southern end of Durban's beachfront, the park is roughly 3 kilometres from the city centre. A direct taxi or rideshare drive from downtown takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic.

Time to Spend

Allow 3 to 5 hours to explore the aquarium galleries and walk through the grounds at a comfortable pace.

When to Visit

Arrive in the morning to view exhibits before foot traffic increases. The venue gets crowded during weekends, public holidays, and school vacation periods. Durban has warm coastal weather year-round, though summer months bring higher heat and humidity.

Nearby Attractions

You can combine your visit with other sights in the area:

  • South Beach, Durban (1km): A beachfront area accessible along the seaside promenade.
  • Salisbury Island, Durban (1.9km): Situated across Durban Harbour.
  • The Cenotaph (2km): A historic war memorial located in central Durban.
  • Durban South Africa Temple (2km): Located a short drive away in the city.

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

This place may not appear in the results — some sites are free to enter or sell tickets only at the gate.

Stays near uShaka Marine World

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

Map and place data © OpenStreetMap contributors

uShaka Marine World Nearby stays

Check prices and availability on the booking sites.

Pick your dates — we'll search Durban hotels for you

Choose dates and guests, and the buttons below will open search results with your criteria. Prices differ between sites, so compare before you book.

Hotel membership

Staying at Accor hotels often? ALL Accor+ Explorer

A paid annual membership. It includes two free nights a year across Asia-Pacific, 30% off dining and 15% off drinks, and 15% off stays at more than 4,500 hotels worldwide.

Explore the membership

Itineraries including this place

Good to visit alongside