Durban Natural Science Museum
About This Museum
Tucked away on the second floor of the grand Durban City Hall, this place is a true gem for anyone curious about our planet. It feels wonderfully old-school, a refreshingly authentic cabinet-of-curiosity experience in a world of flashy interactive screens. You're immediately greeted by the towering skeleton of a whale, which sets the stage for a journey through deep time. It’s the kind of museum where you can spend an hour just marveling at the sheer diversity of African birds or getting lost in the stories told by ancient fossils.
Collection Highlights
The star of the show is undoubtedly 'Phila,' the massive, suspended fin whale skeleton that looms over the main hall. Don't miss the incredibly lifelike bird gallery, which feels like walking through a forest frozen in time, and the fascinating collection of Egyptian mummies that adds a touch of human history to the natural world.
Visitor Information
The best part? Entry is completely free, though donations are welcome to help them keep this treasure going. It's located right in the heart of downtown Durban inside the City Hall building, making it a perfect, affordable escape from the city bustle.
Architecture & Building
The museum is housed within the majestic, early 20th-century Durban City Hall, a beautiful neo-Baroque building with a grand stone facade, ornate details, and a stately clock tower that dominates the city center.
Contact & Location
Address: 4000, eThekwini Ward 33, eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Phone: +27 31 311 2256
