uShaka Marine World: Durban's Aquatic Wonderland

Ushaka-marine-world-durban

One of Africa's Largest Marine Parks

uShaka Marine World stands as one of Africa's largest marine theme parks, spanning 16 hectares along Durban's Golden Mile beachfront. The park combines an impressive aquarium showcasing Indian Ocean marine life, a water park with thrilling slides, and live animal shows featuring dolphins and seals.

 

Sea World Aquarium

Sea World Aquarium ranks among the largest aquariums in the Southern Hemisphere. The facility features a unique design built around a shipwreck theme, with five connected vessels creating an underwater journey through different marine habitats.

 

Visitors walk through underwater tunnels surrounded by sharks, rays, and thousands of fish species native to the Indian Ocean. The aquarium houses over 10,000 marine animals representing more than 390 species.

 

Key exhibits include:

  • Shark tank with ragged-tooth sharks and other predator species
  • Turtle lagoon with endangered sea turtles
  • Penguin colony observation area
  • Interactive touch pools for hands-on experiences

 

The Snorkel Reef allows guests to swim alongside tropical fish in a safe, controlled environment. Certified divers can book shark cage diving experiences or open water dives in the main tank.

 

Wet 'n Wild Water Park

Wet 'n Wild offers relief from Durban's warm climate with water attractions for all ages. The park features multiple slides ranging from family-friendly tube rides to adrenaline-pumping speed slides.

 

The lazy river provides a relaxing float through tropical landscaping. Separate pools cater to toddlers, children, and adults. Most visitors spend 3-4 hours enjoying the water attractions.

 

Current pricing sits at R159 per person for all-day access during promotional periods. The water park operates separately from Sea World, requiring its own admission ticket.

 

Dolphin and Seal Shows

The Dolphin Stadium hosts daily performances showcasing the intelligence and agility of bottlenose dolphins. Trainers demonstrate natural behaviors while educating audiences about marine conservation.

 

Shows run at scheduled times throughout the day, typically lasting 20-30 minutes. The Seal Stadium features similar educational presentations with Cape fur seals performing trained behaviors.

 

Both venues seat hundreds of spectators with tiered seating for clear views. Arriving 15-20 minutes early secures better seats, especially during school holidays and weekends.

 

For more information on the park, visit their website.