Welcome to C.R.O.W. and the vibrant city of Durban! We are excited about having you join us as a volunteer.
This guide is designed to help you make the most of your time in South Africa, both during your volunteer duties and on your days off. You’ll find practical travel tips to safely and enjoyably explore Durban and other South African destinations.
Lace up your walking shoes, pack sunscreen, and get ready to experience the beauty of South Africa!
Getting Started in Durban
Durban is a coastal city known for its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and friendly locals. As you settle into this beautiful part of South Africa, here are some tips to help you navigate and feel at home from the moment you arrive.
Arrival tips:
Durban’s King Shaka International Airport is simple to navigate, and you will find free maps at the information desk to guide you during your stay.
To reach C.R.O.W. accommodations, you have a few transport options:
- Transportation options: From the airport, you have several options to reach the C.R.O.W. volunteer accommodations:
- Private taxis: Safe and reliable, available just outside arrivals—be sure to stick to official services.
- Ride-sharing services: Both Uber and Bolt operate in Durban.
- C.R.O.W.-assisted transfers: If you’d like, we can arrange this for you at your own cost.
Accommodation:
Volunteers stay in a cosy home, just 200 meters from the clinic, with a choice of shared or private accommodation. Shared accommodation include a communal kitchen, lounge, and garden with barbecue facilities.
Wi-Fi is available, and volunteers handle their own laundry using the provided washing machine. Shared cleaning responsibilities ensure a welcoming environment for all. For more details, visit our volunteer page.
Must-visit Attractions in Durban
Durban is a treasure trove of cultural and natural attractions, offering unique experiences that enrich your stay.
Here are some must-visit spots that promise memorable adventures:
uShaka Marine World
Estimated driving time from C.R.O.W.: 30 Minutes
Explore uShaka Marine World, one of the world’s largest aquariums and a hub for marine conservation. Enjoy thrilling water rides at Wet’n Wild, snorkel with exotic fish, or explore Sea World’s impressive exhibits for a fun-filled day.
Durban Botanic Gardens
Estimated driving time from C.R.O.W.: 30 Minutes
Visit Durban Botanic Gardens, Africa’s oldest botanical garden, showcasing local and exotic plants like cycads, orchids, and palms. Enjoy peaceful strolls or leisurely picnics in this beautifully landscaped oasis.
Umgeni River Bird Park
Estimated driving time from C.R.O.W.: 35 Minutes
Umgeni River Bird Park houses over 800 birds from 200 species, offering a unique insight into diverse avian life. Don’t miss the 11 am and 2 pm bird shows, where free-flying birds display natural behaviors
Giba Gorge Adventure Park
Estimated driving time from C.R.O.W.: 45 Minutes
For those who love a dose of adrenaline, Giba Gorge Adventure Park is the place to be. Located in the scenic Giba Valley near Pinetown, the park offers something for everyone. Whether mountain biking along well-maintained trails, tackling obstacle courses or enjoying a leisurely picnic, Giba Gorge caters to all ages and fitness levels.
Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve
Estimated driving time from C.R.O.W.: 2 Minutes
Located just 900 meters from C.R.O.W., this reserve combines natural beauty and history. Explore coastal forests and grasslands teeming with wildlife like zebra, duiker, vervet monkeys, and over 200 bird species. The Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve features Coedmore Castle and the Mary Stainbank Memorial Gallery, showcasing pioneering South African sculptures. Well-marked hiking and mountain bike trails, picnic areas, and accessible paths make it a must-visit.
Each attraction offers a unique way to experience Durban’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or both, you’ll find plenty to do during your time off from volunteering at C.R.O.W.
Travelling Beyond Durban
While Durban itself offers a wealth of attractions, the surrounding areas of KwaZulu-Natal provide breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural experiences that are well worth exploring during your days off.
Here are some destinations to consider for your travel adventures:
Midlands Meander
Estimated driving time from C.R.O.W.: 1 Hour, 45 Minutes
Venture into the heart of KwaZulu-Natal’s rolling hills and explore the Midlands Meander, a route that is as whimsical as it is beautiful. Known for its scenic drives that weave through charming villages, this area is a haven for artisans, craftsmen, and anyone who appreciates the finer things in life. Browse local artisan shops where you can find everything from handcrafted pottery and bespoke furniture to luxurious woven textiles and quirky sculptures. You can also visit the Nelson Mandela Capture Site in Howick, which commemorates the capture of Nelson Mandela with a visitor centre and a world-renowned sculpture.
Drakensberg Mountains
Estimated driving time from C.R.O.W.: 3 to 3.5 hours
The Drakensberg Mountains are a must-visit, offering stunning vistas and unique activities in each region. The Central Drakensberg, around 3 hours away, features family-friendly resorts and ancient San rock art. The Northern Drakensberg, 3 hours and 45 minutes from C.R.O.W., boasts the famous Amphitheatre and top hiking trails. The breathtaking Sani Pass is roughly 3.5 hours away.
Hluhluwe Game Reserve
Estimated driving time from C.R.O.W.: 3 Hours, 15 Minutes
Hluhluwe Game Reserve, Africa’s oldest nature reserve, is renowned for its rhino conservation, which helped save the white rhino from extinction. Thrilling game drives offer opportunities to spot the Big Five and learn about vital conservation efforts. Elephant interactions, a volunteer favorite, can also be combined with your visit, making for an unforgettable experience.
St Lucia and the iSimangaliso Wetland Park
Estimated driving time from C.R.O.W.: 3 Hours
Head to St Lucia and immerse yourself in the spectacular iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. This area boasts some of the most pristine wetland environments in the world, with opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, and an impressive array of birdlife. Enjoy activities like guided wildlife tours, snorkelling in the coastal waters, or kayaking among the mangroves.
Weekend Getaways and Extended Travel
Exploring South Africa can be one of the most rewarding experiences as a volunteer at C.R.O.W.. While Durban offers a rich mix of cultural and natural attractions, taking longer trips to some of the country’s iconic destinations, like Cape Town and Kruger National Park, can profoundly enhance your South African adventure.
Cape Town, known as the Mother City, is a stunning cosmopolitan city that sits beneath the watchful gaze of Table Mountain. Explore the vibrant streets, visit the historic Robben Island, or relax on the beautiful beaches. Don’t miss the chance to take a cable car up Table Mountain for a panoramic view of the city and beyond.
Kruger National Park is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. As one of Africa’s largest game reserves, it offers some of the best opportunities to see the Big Five in their natural habitat. Embark on a safari adventure, either self-driven or guided, and witness the incredible biodiversity that makes this park world-famous. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for game viewing, as animals are most active during the cooler parts of the day.
Planning your Trips
Volunteering at C.R.O.W. offers enough flexibility to make the most of your time in South Africa, including planning longer trips to iconic destinations like Cape Town or Kruger National Park. Our volunteer coordinator has a thorough understanding of various activities and will happily assist you in organising and planning your trips.
Here’s some practical advice on planning:
- Maximise Your Days Off: As a volunteer, you’ll have two days off each week, which you can use for short local trips. For longer journeys that require more travel time, consider speaking with volunteer coordinators at C.R.O.W. about shifting your days off to create a longer break. This way, you can have extended travel periods without missing out on your volunteer commitments.
- Travel Planning: Start planning your trips as early as possible. This includes booking any necessary accommodations and transport options ahead of time, especially during peak tourist seasons. Utilise travel apps and websites to find the best deals and ensure all your bookings are in place before you go.
- Pack Appropriately: For weekend getaways, pack light, but be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially if you’re heading to the mountains or the bush. For city trips like Cape Town, carry comfortable walking shoes and a versatile wardrobe that can go from day to night.
- Stay Connected: Keep in touch with your volunteer coordinator and fellow volunteers while travelling. This ensures everyone is informed of your whereabouts and expected return, contributing to a safer travel experience.
Exploring South Africa’s iconic locations can significantly enrich your volunteering stint. Each trip offers a unique opportunity to understand this diverse country better, from its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife to its complex history and vibrant cultures.
Travel Safety and Etiquette
To ensure your trips are as enjoyable and safe as possible, here are some practical safety tips and etiquette guidelines to keep in mind:
Safety Tips:
- Stay Informed: Research safety concerns for your destination ahead of time.
- Secure Valuables: Keep items out of sight, especially in crowded areas.
- Travel in Groups: Explore with fellow volunteers or guided tours, especially at night.
- Local Emergency Numbers: Carry local emergency numbers and embassy details.
FAQs for Foreign Volunteers
1. What should I know about obtaining a travel visa for volunteering in South Africa? For detailed information on obtaining a travel visa to volunteer in South Africa, please visit our comprehensive visa guide.
2. When is the best time to visit Durban? The ideal time to visit Durban is during the pleasant spring months, from August to November, or the mild autumn months, from February to May. During these months, the weather is ideal with minimal rainfall, creating perfect conditions for volunteering and exploring. From September to March, the centre enters its bustling baby season, offering volunteers an opportunity to contribute to the care and rehabilitation of young wildlife during this lively and rewarding period.
3. Are digital payments accepted in Durban? Digital payments are widely accepted in Durban, especially in urban areas and at major tourist spots. Most businesses, from hotels to restaurants, will accept credit cards or mobile payments. However, carrying a small amount of cash for purchases in more rural areas or smaller stores where digital payment systems might not be as prevalent is a good idea.
4. What languages are spoken in Durban, and should I learn any local phrases? English is the primary language spoken in Durban and is used in most settings. However, Durban is a culturally diverse city where Zulu is also commonly spoken. Learning a few basic greetings in Zulu will be appreciated and enhance your interactions with local residents. For example, greeting someone with “Sawubona” (Hello in Zulu) shows respect and interest in the local culture.
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As you embark on your volunteer journey with C.R.O.W. in the beautiful city of Durban, remember that your adventure extends far beyond the impactful work you’ll do here. South Africa is rich in diversity, history, and natural beauty, offering endless opportunities for exploration and personal growth.
Explore, discover, and connect—and let South Africa leave its mark on your heart.