King Shaka International Airport
Durban, South Africa · Since 2010
Last updated:
About DUR
King Shaka International Airport is a modern airport opened in 2010, serving Durban and the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. Built to replace the old Durban International Airport, it features a striking pier-based design inspired by local Zulu culture. The airport handles both domestic and international flights.
Terminals
Main Terminal
Single modern terminal with domestic and international sections. Features a distinctive arch-shaped roof inspired by Zulu culture. Clean, efficient layout with good amenities throughout.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at DUR
Airlink
Main Terminal
CemAir
Emirates
Main Terminal
Eswatini Air
Ethiopian Airlines
Main Terminal
FlexFlight
FlySafair
Main Terminal
LIFT
Showing 8 of 11 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
Metered taxis, Uber, King Shaka Shuttle, rental cars
Taxi
$25-35
25-40 min to city center
Public Transport
$5-8
40-60 min to city center
Parking at DUR
Well-organized parking with covered and open-air options, plus premium valet parking....
Parkade (Covered)
Surface Parking
Valet Parking
Airport Lounges
SLOW Lounge
Main Terminal
Stylish South African lounge brand offering local wines, craft beers, biltong, and hot meals. Shower facilities and comfortable seating. Popular with domestic and international travelers.
Bidvest Premier Lounge
Main Terminal
Reliable South African lounge offering buffet food, drinks, and fast Wi-Fi in a comfortable setting.
Shongololo Lounge
Main Terminal
Domestic lounge with rest areas, light meals, and beverages. Named after the large African millipede, a local icon.
Where to Stay
Nearby Hotels
Garden Court Umhlanga
Umhlanga Ridge, 15 minutes from airport
Comfortable hotel in the Umhlanga area. Pool, restaurant, and easy highway access to the airport.
Radisson Blu Hotel Umhlanga
Umhlanga Rocks beachfront, 20 minutes from airport
Beachfront luxury hotel ideal for longer layovers. Pool, spa, ocean views, and excellent dining.
Food & Dining
Mugg & Bean
Café/International
Main Terminal (Airside)
Popular South African café chain serving generous portions of coffee, breakfast, burgers, and comfort food. Known for bottomless coffee.
5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Ocean Basket
Seafood
Main Terminal (Landside)
South African seafood chain offering fresh fish, calamari, prawns, and sushi. Good value for quality seafood.
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Kauai
Healthy/Juice Bar
Main Terminal (Airside)
Health-focused South African chain serving smoothies, wraps, salads, and fresh juices. Popular breakfast spot.
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Car Rental
Europcar South Africa
Arrivals Hall, Ground Level
Wide vehicle selection. Collect at the Arrivals hall counter. Book online for best rates.
Hertz South Africa
Arrivals Hall, Ground Level
Reliable fleet. GPS rental recommended for navigating KwaZulu-Natal.
First Car Rental
Arrivals Hall, Ground Level
South African company with competitive prices. Good budget option.
What to Do During a Layover
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Gateway Theatre of Shopping
One of Africa's largest shopping centers in Umhlanga, just 15 minutes from the airport. Features wave pool, rock climbing, IMAX cinema, and hundreds of stores.
Durban Beachfront Promenade
Stroll along the famous Golden Mile beachfront with its Art Deco buildings, surfing culture, and Indian Ocean views.
uShaka Marine World
World-class aquarium and theme park on Durban's beachfront. Features sea animal encounters, water rides, and a beautiful beachside promenade. About 35 minutes from the airport.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Speed Rating: ●●●●○
- Power Outlets: Type M (South African), Type C
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: $5-8 per bag per day
- Showers: $10 (in SLOW Lounge)
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
- Pet Relief Areas
Money & Currency
- Currency: South African Rand (ZAR)
- Exchange: Arrivals hall and departures airside
- Hours: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Tipping: 10-15% at restaurants is standard. Tip taxi drivers, porters, and car guards.
Travelex and Bidvest Bank operate exchange desks. ATMs offer competitive rates with international cards.
Smoking Areas
Designated outdoor smoking areas on the departure and arrivals levels
Insider Tips
The airport is about 35 km north of Durban city center. Uber is widely available and the most cost-effective option. The Dube TradePort area near the airport has hotels and restaurants.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Free Wi-Fi, currency exchange, ATMs, duty-free shops, restaurants, prayer rooms, VIP lounges, medical center, kids play area