Friday, May 8, 2026 – Walvis Bay, Namibia
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Walvis Bay, Namibia.
WALVIS BAY, NAMIBIA
Walvis Bay is a thriving port town
On the west coast of Namibia, Walvis Bay’s history spans centuries. The first people to live in the area were the Topnaar, who were hunter-gatherers and fishermen. They had lived in the area for centuries before the arrival of Europeans, in the late 18th century, when the Dutch East India Company established a trading post in Walvis Bay. It became a regular stop for ships traveling along the African coast.
In the mid-19th century, the city was annexed by the British Empire and became a strategic port for British ships traveling to India and Australia. The British built a lighthouse and a customs house, and the town grew as trade and commerce increased. The British also established a military base in Walvis Bay, which remained in operation until Namibia gained independence in 1990.
In the early 20th century, the town became a hub for the South African fishing industry, and it remained under South African control after Namibia gained independence. Walvis Bay was a contentious issue in the negotiations leading up to Namibia’s independence, as both Namibia and South Africa claimed sovereignty over the town.
In 1994, South Africa agreed to transfer control of Walvis Bay to Namibia as part of the country’s independence agreement. The transfer was completed in 1995, and the town became part of the newly independent Namibia.
Today, Walvis Bay is a thriving port town and a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The town has a diverse population, reflecting the many cultures and traditions that have shaped it over the centuries. Its strategic location on the coast has made it a vital hub for shipping and transportation, and its history is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the people who have called it home over the years.
SIGHTS
• Walvis Bay Lagoon
• Bird Sanctuary & Flamingo Viewing
• Dune 7
• Sandwich Harbor
• Walvis Bay Waterfront
• Walvis Bay Museum
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
Walvis Bay’s cuisine reflects its coastal location and multicultural Namibian heritage. Fresh Atlantic seafood is a highlight, particularly hake, kingklip, mussels, oysters, calamari, and rock lobster, often simply prepared to showcase natural flavors. Local dishes and influences include: Grilled or smoked fish, served with rice, potatoes, or vegetables, Oshikundu and mahangu-based sides, rooted in traditional Namibian cuisine. German-influenced fare such as sausages and hearty breads, a legacy of colonial history, and South African flavors, including braai-style grilled meats and chutney. Meals are typically relaxed and generous, pairing well with Namibian beers or South African wines, making Walvis Bay a destination where fresh ingredients and cultural influences come together beautifully.
Today’s Excursion – Namib Desert Adventure by 4×4
We had an up-close look at the Namib on this half-day adventure into the desert, topped off with refreshments in the desert.
Namib Desert
We departed from the pier on board our 4×4 and traveled along the scenic coastal road to the Musical Rocks situated in the ‘Moon Landscape’ in the rocky section of the Namib Desert. Enjoy the magnificent view of the Swakop River Canyon before continuing to the ‘Lichen Koppie’, a small hill littered with a wide variety of Lichen plants. See the blooming of life in these seemingly ‘dead’ plants when your guide gives them some precious water.
Swakop River, Moon Mountains & Welwitschia Plants
The safari travels farther along the Swakop River, a dry riverbed that seldom flows, to the ‘Moon Mountains,’ allowing time to explore this area of deep chasms and intriguing geological features before arriving at the world-famous Welwitschia Mirabilis plants. The Welwitschia plant was discovered in 1859 by Dr. Friedrich Welwitsch and has been recorded to live for up to 1,500 years. It is the most talked-about plant in the Botanical World and is considered the Paradox of the Namib.
Before we made our way back to the ship, we stopped en route at a special location, stopping for refreshments
ROCK THE BOAT
TONIGHT’S SHOW
Put on your dancing shoes and join us as we dance the night away with our collection of eclectic party hits. The Silversea Singers and Band will be sure to keep you swinging and swaying as those records keep playing for you to party throughout the entire evening!
Thursday, May 7, 2026 – Walvis Bay, Namibia
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Walvis Bay, Namibia.
WALVIS BAY, NAMIBIA
Bird lovers paradise
Home to a beautiful lagoon, washed pale pink by a colony of resident flamingos, Walvis Bay is a colorful African call, where you can meet some of the continent’s most flamboyant wildlife. A small Namibian city on the Atlantic coast of southern Africa, it takes its name from Whale Bay, which gives a clue to the wonderful wildlife-watching opportunities available here. The deep waters blossom with high levels of plankton, drawing curious marine mammals in large numbers to feast. As Namibia’s only deep-water harbor, Walvis Bay is an important fishing center for the country, and its sunny shores and natural wonders make it a popular spot for holidaymakers.
Walvis Bay is a bird lover’s paradise, and hundreds of thousands of birds assemble here to make the most of the tidal lagoon. Boat tours can take you out amongst the preening crowds, or you can admire the flamingos, herons and carefully treading wading bird species from afar. Meet the pelicans at nearby Pelican Point – a sandy spit, which calms the waves heading for the waterfront. With whales and dolphins frolicking offshore too, there’s a wide variety of wildlife to see here.
On the cusp of the sun-scorched Namib Desert beyond, Dune 7 rises up to form the highest sand dune in the country, with sands piling up 380 meters. Perfect for a picnic, or a pulse-raising desert sport, like sand skiing or sandboarding. Climb to the top for views from its heights, or you can take a flight tour to see further afield and spot some of the extraordinary land animals that roam the landscapes. See the natural drama of Sandwich Harbor, where the golden sand dunes plummet directly into the ocean’s waves.
SIGHTS
• Dune
• Flamingo Lagoon
• Kuisebmond Stadium
• Sandwich Harbor
• Walvis Bay Waterfront
• Walvis Bay Museum
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
The local cuisine is a blend of fresh seafood, traditional Namibian flavors, and culinary influences from various cultures, evolving over the years.
The main shopping areas in Walvis Bay are Dunes Mall and The Waterfront. Dunes Mall: A single-level mall with a variety of stores, including clothing, groceries, pharmacies, and home decor. Located on the main road from the airport to the CBD.
The Waterfront: A shopping complex located along the harbor.
Features boutiques, souvenir shops, artisanal markets, cafes, restaurants, and bars. Offers a mix of retail therapy and seaside charm. A great place to find unique keepsakes and gifts.
We returned to the Walvis Bay, Namibia airport in the middle of the sand dunes and desert and were greeted back to the Silver Dawn, and our suite.
6:00 The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra: Enjoy listening and dancing to one of the greatest big bands of all-time, led by trombonist Jeff Bush.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
LEADING LADIES
TONIGHT’S SHOW
Join your World Cruise Ambassador, Eleanor, for Leading Ladies—a captivating musical journey honoring the iconic women who have shaped both her life and career.
From the timeless charm of Doris Day and Judy Garland to the brilliance of Barbra Streisand and Julie Andrews, Eleanor celebrates the enduring legacy of these legendary performers.
If you’ve seen the show before, get ready for fresh surprises and new material woven into this heartfelt tribute.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 – Johannesburg, South Africa
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Johannesburg, the capital of South Africa, after an Overland Excursion from Cape Town to Victoria Falls and back to Walvis Bay, Namibia.
I am posting some of our African Highlights pictures.
Tuesday, May 5, 2026 – Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Africa
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Africa.
A Mid-Voyage Land Adventure: Victoria Falls, the Smoke That Thunders Victoria Falls Overland Tour
We had breakfast and took pictures in The Palms Hotel before our tour of Victoria Falls.
The Palm River Hotel’s idyllic location among towering indigenous trees offers panoramic views of the mighty Zambezi River. Located about 2.5 miles upstream from Victoria Falls, the hotel is a convenient riverside retreat after experiencing all the thrills of the world’s biggest waterfall. It’s located so close, in fact, that on a clear and wind-free day, you can hear the rumble and see the spray of the mighty ‘Smoke That Thunders’ from your room. The Palm River Hotel draws its style inspiration from Victoria Falls Town’s rich history and blends it with iconic Queenslander architecture – discerning travelers will love the high ceilings and spacious verandas that enhance the hotel’s luxurious, capacious feel.
Helicopter tour over Victoria Falls
After breakfast at the hotel, we met our guide and took a short transfer to the helipad. Upon arrival, receive your safety briefing before boarding your helicopter for an approximately 25-minute ‘Flight of Angels’. Upon seeing the Victoria Falls for the first time in 1855, David Livingstone famously wrote that ‘Scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight’. Little did he know that 150 years later, he could have that exact opportunity.
The best way to appreciate the true splendor of Victoria Falls is to view it from the air. Due to the helicopters’ proximity to the Zambezi River, they are over its spectacular scenery just a short time after lift-off. After take-off, the helicopter turns out towards the magnificent Victoria Falls. From here, our pilot flies left – and right-hand circuits over the Falls in both directions, giving you the best viewing, photographic, and video opportunities. A trip up the Zambezi River and back over Zambezi National Park completes your flight.
Lunch at The Lookout Cafe overlooking the Victoria Falls Gorge.
After the helicopter flight, we went to the Lookout Café for a delicious lunch accompanied by stunning panoramic views overlooking the gorge.
Walking tour of Victoria Falls
Following lunch, we took a guided walking tour of Victoria Falls. From the sight of the Falls to their smell and sound, this awe-inspiring sensory experience is truly humbling. While countless photo opportunities abound, no photograph can truly capture the feeling of seeing the mighty Falls for the first time. This awe-inspiring, 150-million-year-old natural wonder reaches its zenith around May of each year. Learn about the history of the Falls and its flora, fauna, and birdlife from your guide whilst winding your way through the rainforest. Our guides assisted us with photographs while visiting this most spectacular of waterfalls.
Zambezi Evening River Cruise
In the early evening, we departed for the short transfer to the Zambezi River jetty. Upon arrival, we embarked on the cruise for an unforgettable sunset cruise experience on the Zambezi River. We enjoyed the beautiful African sunset with its stunning colors and watched the elephants and hippos as they enjoyed the cooling water. At the conclusion of your sunset dinner cruise, disembark the vessel and re-boardedvour coach for the short transfer back to the The Palm Hotel.
Monday, May 4, 2026 – Cape Town, South Africa
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Cape Town, South Africa.
CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Also known as “Mother City.”
In the Bo-Kaap neighborhood, the call to prayer echoes through cobbled streets lined with brightly painted
houses, while the aroma of Malay curry fills the air. Flower sellers, newspaper hawkers, and lively markets
keep street life buzzing, and lampposts advertise a steady stream of festivals and cultural events.
Yet what you’ll ultimately remember about Cape Town is the grandeur of its setting. Table Mountain rises
dramatically above the city, with rugged mountains tumbling into the sea and the shifting blues of the
The Atlantic and Indian Oceans complete the scene. Francis Drake’s description of this as “the fairest Cape we
saw in the whole circumference of the earth” still feels remarkably accurate today.
Often compared to San Francisco, Cape Town has two things the city by the Bay does not: Table Mountain
and Africa. The mountain is central to the city’s identity, looming overhead in a way that must be experienced
firsthand. When afternoon clouds spill over its flat summit, the city below seems to pause in collective awe.
Beyond the urban core, pristine white-sand beaches, mountain trails, and outdoor pursuits—from surfing
and paragliding to mountain biking—offer endless possibilities. Much of the land near Strand and Waterkant
Streets were reclaimed from the sea, forming today’s Foreshore, a reminder of how Cape Town has continually
evolved alongside its extraordinary natural surroundings.
SIGHTS
- V&A Waterfront
- Chapman’s Peak Drive
- Bo-kaap
- Groot Constantia
- Bay Harbor Market
- Castle of Good Hope
- Constantia Valley
- Flying Dutchman Funicular
- St. George’s Cathedral
- National Library of South Africa
CUISINE AND SHOPPING
Cape Town’s cuisine and shopping scene reflect the city’s rich cultural diversity and creative spirit. Its food culture ranges from traditional Cape Malay dishes—such as fragrant curries, bobotie, and samoosas found in areas like Bo-Kaap, to fresh seafood, vibrant food markets, and world‑class dining inspired by both African and international
influences. Equally varied is the city’s shopping experience, from the bustling V&A Waterfront, with its mix of international brands, local designers, and artisan markets, to lively streets like Kloof Street and neighborhood markets offering handcrafted jewelry, fashion, art, and unique South African souvenirs. Together, Cape Town’s flavors and
retail experiences offer an engaging way to explore the city’s culture, creativity, and lifestyle.
World Cruise Overland Experience: Victoria Falls, the Smoke That Thunders
We embarked on a four-day overland tour to see Victoria Falls to explore one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. We flew from Cape Town to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. After arrival, we proceeded to the Boma restaurant for a traditional interactive dinner. This is not just another ethnic restaurant, but a unique cultural experience.
Excellent game meets, traditional dishes, traditional dancers, a Sangoma, and a fortune teller
Upon arrival at the Boma restaurant, we were welcomed with a traditional greeting in Shona Ndebele, the local languages. Next, we were invited to take part in a hand-washing ceremony before sampling traditional beer and snacks, a prelude to dinner. Excellent cuisine, including a variety of game meats and traditional Zimbabwean dishes, is accompanied by entertainment throughout your meal from traditional dancers, the Sangoma (a traditional storyteller), and a local fortune teller, who is available for fortune telling. We learned about the country’s folklore, culture, and heritage from a Sangoma. After dinner, we checked into The Palms Hotel.
Sunday, May 3, 2026 – Cape Town, South Africa.
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Cape Town, South Africa.
CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
The Tavern of the Seas
Sprawling across endless, staggeringly blue coastline and watched over by the iconic plane of Table Mountain, Cape Town is without doubt one of the world’s most beautiful cities. A blend of spectacular mountain scenery, multiculturalism, and relaxed ocean charm awaits in the Mother City, where you can venture out to rolling vineyards, dine in laid-back sea suburbs, or spend days exploring cool urban culture. Cape Town’s natural splendor fully reveals itself as the cable car rears sharply to the top of Table Mountain. From the summit, 3,500 feet above sea level, you can let the scale of the panoramic vistas of the city rolling down towards the ocean wash over you. Another heavenly perspective waits at the top of Lion’s Head’s tapering peak. A sharp hike and an early start is required, but the views of the morning sun painting Table Mountain honey-gold are some of Cape Town’s finest.
Cape Town’s glorious sunshine and inviting blue rollers can be a little deceiving – these oceans are anything but warm at times, with nothing between the peninsula’s end and Antarctica’s icy chill. This cool water has upsides though, bringing a colony of adorably cute African penguins to Boulders Beach. Boarded walkways offer the perfect vantage point to see the cute creatures dipping into the sea and lounging in the sun. Nearby, journey to the end of Africa at the Cape of Good Hope, where you can stand at the bottom of this mighty continent, watching out over the merging waves of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
Cape Town’s beauty is counterpointed by the ominous island form, which sits four miles offshore from the bustling restaurants and lazy seals of the lively V&A Waterfront. A living history lesson, you can sail in the ships that transported prisoners out to Robben Island, before a former prisoner tells of the traumas of life on this offshore prison. Your guide will show you the cramped cells, and render Mandela’s long walk to freedom in heartbreaking, visceral clarity.
TABLE MOUNTAIN
Table Mountain is Cape Town’s most famous landmark, revered for thousands of years by the Khoisan people, who called it Hoerikwaggo, meaning “Mountain in the Sea.” First climbed by a European in 1503, it later became a vital navigational beacon for ships arriving at the Cape. Today, with its iconic flat summit and panoramic views, Table Mountain remains a powerful symbol of the city’s natural beauty and history. The opening of the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway in 1929 made the summit accessible to visitors from around the world. Now protected as part of Table Mountain National Park, it is also recognized as one of the New7Wonders of Nature, celebrated for both its scenic splendor and cultural significance.
SIGHTS
• Cape Town Ostrich Ranch
• Nobel Square
• Maidens’ Cove
• City Hall
• Long March to Freedom
• Parliament of the Republic of South Africa
• St. George’s Mall
• Cape Town’s Little India
• Iziko Koopmans-De Wet House
We hired a private car for a tour to see the South African Penguins at Boulder Beach, then to Cape Point, and finally to Cape Hope.
South African Penguins at Boulders Beach
Cape of Good Hope – The most Southwestern location in Africa, and Cape Point with the lighthouse.
World Cruise Event – Diamonds Are Forever, May 3, 2026, Cape Town.
Cape Town will dazzle with the addition of “Diamonds Are Forever,” a Silversea-exclusive event at the world-class Vergelegen Conservatory, in partnership with South African Michelin-starred chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen. Unparalleled South African hospitality, celebrated cuisine, exceptional regional wines from the estate’s cellar, and a little added sparkle, all for a night to remember.
As dusk settled over South Africa’s storied, 18th-century Vergelegen Estate, we gathered beneath a chandeliered marquee for an extraordinary evening. Stars fall on this land of transformative brilliance – from the legendary Cullinan Diamond reborn as the Great Star of Africa to the athletic and artistic stars whose talents illuminate the world.
Gumboot dancers opened the night with ancestral fire. An orchestra carries it aloft. A magician mystifies us. A breathtaking Diamond Dance finale – luminous, unforgettable – brings the evening to its brilliant close.
An added bonus was capturing photos of fellow World Cruise couples kissing.
Saturday, May 2, 2026 – At Sea sailing to Cape Town, South Africa
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town, South America.
The Men’s Breakfast was in The Altantide Restaurant.
10:00 Destination Lecture with Chris McPherson: “Cape Town: A Meeting Point of Currents, Cultures, and Conversations”
Join Chris, your destination speaker, for an exploration into the history, culture, and cuisine of Cape Town, South Africa.
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Mark Lubienski: “Secret Intelligence: Spies in Sub-Saharan Africa”.
Meet the CIA’s chief poisoner, MI6’s “James Bond” in her 2CV, and the boss of BOSS – South Africa’s Bureau of State Security.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Dr. Harold S. Minkowitz, M.D.: “The Science of Happiness”.
Let’s explore together what can make us happier and the components of a richer life!
6:00 Farewell speech from Captain Ivo Botica and our Crew Parade.
See the crew who have worked hard to make your voyage extra special – followed by Farewell Showtime! Motown with Silversea Singers and Dancers.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
Friday, May 1, 2026 – Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Port Elizabeth, South Africa.
PORT ELIZABETH (GQEBERHA), SOUTH AFRICA
A Xhosa tale
Port Elizabeth is located in the homeland of the Xhosa people, the ethnic group from which Nelson Mandela
hails. In Xhosa culture, oral tradition and storytelling play a significant role, with the tale of Qamata being
one of the most prominent. Qamata is regarded as the primary deity responsible for the creation of the
world and this story is not only a fundamental aspect of the Xhosa creation myth but also highlights the
deep connection the people have with their land and the natural world, showcasing the complexity of Xhosa
cosmology.
According to legend, Qamata was one of the first two beings to exist, born from the primordial forces of the
sky and the earth. Entrusted with the task of shaping the earth, Qamata faced a formidable opponent in
Nkanyamba, a sea dragon and the nemesis of his mother.
In one of their intense confrontations, Nkanyamba inflicted a grave injury on Qamata, hindering his ability
to create dry land amidst the endless ocean. In response, the Earth goddess, his mother, intervened by
casting large cattle made from reeds into the waters. These cattle miraculously transformed into landmasses,
giving rise to the continents.
Initially, these new lands were lifeless and barren. To remedy this, the Earth goddess began to populate
them with life. However, each night, Nkanyamba would drag the lands back beneath the waves, erasing the
creations of the Earth goddess.
To thwart this cycle, she fashioned four celestial beings from her own essence, who became the guardians
of the earth. These demi-gods assisted Qamata in his struggle against Nkanyamba, ultimately driving him
deep into the ocean. This victory allowed life to thrive without further interference.
SIGHTS
- Shamwari Private Game Reserve in
the Eastern Cape - South African Air Force Museum
- Storms River bridge
- The Campanile
- The Island Nature Reserve
- Van Stadens Wild Flower Reserve
- Fort Frederick, Eastern Cape
- Kragga Kamma Game Park
- Kwantu Private Game Reserve
- Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium
- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan
- CUISINE AND SHOPPING
Port Elizabeth has a diverse culinary scene with many local foods to try, including seafood, meat dishes, and baked goods. Locally grown oysters are a popular dish in Port Elizabeth. Biltong: A popular snack made from dried, cured, and spiced meat. Malva pudding: A sweet and sticky baked sponge pudding made with apricot jam and served with hot cream sauce.
There are plenty of places to shop in the Eastern Cape. From large shopping malls in Port Elizabeth to small boutique shops in Richmond Hill and country shops in the Gamtoos Valley there is a wide range of shopping in the Eastern Cape. Some of them are Greenacres, Baywest Mall, Walmer Park, Sunridge Village, MetLife Mall, Oceanside Surf Store, Pier 14, Moffet on Main Lifestyle Center, Cleary Park.
Today’s Excursion – Pumba Private Game Reserve – Safari & Lunch
We experienced the abundant wildlife and birdlife of the Pumba Private Game Reserve during this game drive.
Port Elizabeth, Pumba Private Game Reserve
The Pumba Private Game Reserve is a beautiful and expansive reserve spans over 14,826 acres of land, and offers the thrilling experience of spotting the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes) in their natural environment. Pumba also covers five of the seven biomes, and is the first of the eastern Cape game reserves to introduce a white lion breeding program.
Game Drive, Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Rhinos, Buffaloes, Giraffes, Zebras, Hippos, Birds
Upon arrival at the lodge and after refreshments and a comfort stop, we met our experienced ranger/guide and received our safety and tour instructions. Afterward, we begin our guided morning safari aboard an open-air, 4WD safari vehicle.
We experienced Pumba’s abundant game whilst marvelling at the exquisite natural beauty of the reserve. In addition to the amazing display of animals found at Pumba, the reserve is home to over 300 diverse bird species. Other animals you may observe during your game drive include giraffes, zebras, hippos, cheetahs, warthogs, hyenas, wild dogs, and more.
Lions
Elephants
Rhinos
Cape Buffalo
Zebras
The Rest
THE COUNTRY GENTLEMEN
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER DANIEL THOMPSON
Known for his rich bass-baritone voice, warm stage presence, and an understated style built on storytelling, authentic vocals, and musicianship,
Daniel Thompson is an award-winning vocalist and
guitarist from Sydney, Australia, who recently marked 30 years as a full-time entertainer.
At sea, Daniel brings the music of Johnny Cash to life with the storytelling and musical integrity that defined his touring years.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
35MM BLOCKBUSTER
TONIGHT’S SHOW
From the soundtracks of some of the world’s biggest movies, we present a selection of your favourite hit songs.
Memorable movies, with unforgettable music, featuring our Silversea singers and dancers, with the Silver Dawn Band.
Tuesday, April 29, 2026 – Durban, South Africa
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Durban, South Africa.
DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA
The home of “Bunny Chow”
Durban is a coastal city located on the eastern shore of South Africa, along the Indian Ocean. It is the largest city in the province of KwaZulu-Natal and is well known for its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and busy port—one of the largest in Africa. Durban has a rich cultural diversity, shaped by African, Indian, and European influences, which is reflected in its languages, traditions, and especially its food.
The city is famous for local dishes such as bunny chow, a popular street food that highlights Durban’s strong Indian heritage.
In addition to its cultural life, Durban is an important economic and tourism center. Visitors are drawn to attractions like the Golden Mile beachfront, uShaka Marine World, and nearby nature reserves and mountains. The city also plays a key role in trade, manufacturing, and transportation due to its strategic coastal location. With its mix of modern development, natural beauty, and cultural history, Durban is a unique and vibrant city in South Africa.
SIGHTS
• The Golden Mile and Beaches
• Umgeni River Bird
• Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple
• Kwa Muhle Museum
• Durban Natural Science Museum
• Mini Town
• Durban City Hall
CULTURE
One of the strongest expressions of Durban’s culture is its food, especially spicy curries and the famous bunny chow, which originated in the city. Religion also plays an important role, with Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, and traditional African beliefs practiced side by side. Cultural celebrations such as Diwali, Reed Dance festivals, and Heritage Day reflect this diversity. Along with a relaxed coastal lifestyle, love for sport (especially rugby, soccer, and surfing), and strong community values, Durban’s culture is a dynamic blend of tradition and modern urban life.
Today’s Excursion – Tala Private Game Reserve
Located in the KwaZulu-Natal hills is the wildlife conservancy of Tala Private Game Reserve, an area of indigenous acacia thornveld, open grassland, and sensitive wetland that provides an exceptional environment for game viewing and birdwatching.
Tala provides visitors with superb game viewing experiences in open game vehicles with highly knowledgeable and
experienced rangers and a tracker who will not fail to impress you with his bush skills. At Tala, the aim is to bring you closer to nature, to interact with the environment and animals, and to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the African bush. The reserve, which spans nearly 7,500 acres (3,000 hectares) and encompasses diverse natural environments, features well over 300 bird species, along with big game such as rhino, kudu, hippo, giraffe, and the rare sable antelope. Several distinctive and remarkable plant species are also found on Tala. The fiery aloe in full bloom, the imposing euphorbia, and the smell of the fragrant wild sage on a dewy morning make for wonderful, vivid memories.
First, the Zebras.
Next are the Rhinos.
Followed by Osterich, Nala, Kudus, Wildebeast, birds, hippos…
And, the highlights were the Giraffes.
Finally, a few miscellaneous pictures.
Dinner was at The Atlantide Restaurant
BEYOND THE ORIGINAL
TONIGHT’S SHOW
Beyond the Original” reimagines classics as male vocalists perform iconic female songs and vice versa.
With operatic flair, rich harmonies, and the Silver Dawn Band, our vocalists Beatrice, Mya, Mo, and Mujahid deliver unforgettable renditions blending classic, modern, and contemporary styles.
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 – Durban, South Africa
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Durban, South Africa.
DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA
The Surf City
What is it about South Africa’s third most popular city that draws people so much? Is it the vibrant waterfront, complete with street performers and sand artists? Is it the melting pot of ethnicity, with all cultures from Zulu to Indian finding a home here? Is it the laid-back lifestyle that has locals calling it simply “Durbs”? Is it the sweeping landscape? The clement climate? One visit to Durban will quickly make you see the reason people love it so much is a combination of all of the above.
Durban has always been a beach city, but it was the massive investment for the 2010 World Cup that really put it on the map. A huge revamp of the promenade has brought with it some fantastic eateries which serve up all kinds of “chow” from traditional bunny chow to bobotie (a sweet spiced mince dish with egg topping). Expect Asian influences wherever you go, too. Durban has the largest Indian population outside of India.
Although there is little evidence, it is known that the city of eThekwini – Durban in Zulu – was inhabited by hunter-gatherers thousands of years ago. It was first sighted by Vasco de Gama in 1497, but it was not until 1824 that the British settlers raised the Union Jack. This was after King Shaka gifted “25-mile strip of coast a hundred miles in depth” to Henry Francis Fynn after Fynn helped him recover from a stab wound. It remained part of the British Commonwealth until 1960, when it became part of the Republic of South Africa. The city’s Euro-African heritage remains to this day.
SIGHTS
• Durban Beach Front
• Durban Botanic Gardens
• Durban City Hall
• Durban Natural Science Museum
• Hollywoodbets Kings
• Park Stadium
• Kwa Muhle Museum
• Mitchell Park Zoo
• Moses Mabhida Stadium
• Phansi Museum
• PheZulu Safari Park
• Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple
• Ushaka Beach
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
Gateway Theatre of Shopping is the ultimate shopping, leisure, and entertainment haven! Gateway is the largest retail
destination in the city, offering an uNrivaled experience that caters to all ages and interests.
The Victoria Street Market, where the scents of spices and the vibrancy of local crafts create an unforgettable experience.
The bunny chow – the Durban specialty – is unique to the city and consists of a quarter loaf of bread hollowed out and filled with a curry of your choice. The dish is also called a ‘kota’ in many parts of the country. The original bunny chows were made only with vegetarian fillings and were known as bean bunny chows.
Today’s Excursion – Valley of a Thousand Hills
Meet modern and olden day African tribal culture in the traditional and spectacular homeland of the Zulu on this half-day
exploration of the ‘Valley of a Thousand Hills’.
Phezulu Safari Park
Depart the pier aboard your coach and drive via the national road for approximately one hour towards the Phezulu Safari Park. In this geographically wondrous part of the world shaped first by the windings of the great Mgeni River, then by the culture of the Zulu tribes, and finally by the coming of European man, the hills still beat to the Zulu drum.
As you journey into the valley, learn how historically these tranquil rolling hills belie the blood-soaked drama that unfolded almost two centuries ago. It was then that the Zulu King Shaka, known to historians as the ‘Black Napoleon’,
subjugated the tribes that today make up the Kingdom of the Zulu.
Zulu People, Dances, and Witch Doctor
Your visit to Phezulu (an open-air museum) creates the opportunity to discover first-hand the intricacies, ethnic customs, and beliefs of the Zulu people. Here, Zulu tales and history are depicted in energetic, costumed song and dance by the renowned Gasa clan, who have been performing unique plays for over 40 years. Dances of courtship and betrothal, of the throwing of the Sangoma’s (witch doctor) bones, of war, and of birth, set to the mesmerizing beat of the Zulu drum, take you into another world.
Traditional Huts, Refreshments, Optional Reptile Park guided tour
Afterward, explore the Zulu cultural village with its traditional beehive huts and fascinating glimpses into African tribal culture. Learn what the different coloured beads that adorn the skirts actually represent and how the women make bread and beer. After enjoying some refreshments, opt for a guided tour of Phezulu’s impressive reptile park or browse a wealth of ethnic home crafts for sale in the well-stocked curio shop, including pottery, Zulu fabric art, woodcarving, beadwork, and other curios.
Reptile Park
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER DANIEL THOMPSON
Known for his rich bass-baritone voice, warm stage presence, and an understated style built on storytelling, authentic vocals, and musicianship, Daniel Thompson is an award-winning vocalist and guitarist from Sydney, Australia, who recently marked 30 years as a
full-time entertainer.
At sea, Daniel brings Johnny Cash’s music to life with the storytelling and musical integrity that defined his touring years.
His two shows—Johnny Cash: The Man in Black and The Country Gentlemen—celebrate songs that have crossed genres and stayed with audiences for decades.
