uShaka Marine World – A Family Ocean Adventure

Africa’s largest marine theme park can be found on the stunning coast of KwaZulu Natal. It is called uShaka Marine World and it is one of the top attractions in Durban. This excellent family theme park makes good use of the strong Zulu heritage of the region, combining African images and décor with a wonderful variety of magical marine animals. It also features a recreated 1920 cargo ship wreck that, when combined with all its other attributes, helps to make it a leading Durban attraction.

The designers of the uShaka Marine World certainly did not leave any stone unturned when it came to creating some of the largest and most spectacular settings for the ocean adventures that can be enjoyed at the park. The recreated cargo ship wreck sets the scene for an exciting journey into the depths of the sea. It houses a stunning aquarium where visitors can explore the secrets of the ocean through a variety of themed viewing tanks. The aquarium is one of the five largest aquariums in the world and it boasts one of the largest collections of sharks in the southern hemisphere. You can even enter the shark tank in a cage for a closer encounter with these fearsome marine hunters. uShaka Marine World also has the largest dolphinarium in Africa with seating for 1200 people, a stunning penguin rookery and a delightful seal pool. For visitors who prefer to take a more hands-on approach, there is a touch pool, a dive tank and a snorkel reef to enjoy.

If the close encounter with the ‘Jaws’ family did not get your heart racing, you can take a walk to the Wet and Wild side of uShaka Marine World. Here you will find the heart jolting, freefall Plunge Slide. Or you can race against family members and friends on the Kamikaze, a 5 lane racer with plenty of thrills included. If a wild ride is not what you had in mind, the 450m river ride will take you around the uShaka Marine World park and through the wreck of the 1950 cargo ship at a leisurely pace. Sun worshipers can also relax on the small stretch of beach. Parents can settle down on the deck or lawn to keep a watchful eye on their adventurous children as they enjoy the pool.

After building up an appetite by the pool or on one of the many uShaka Marine World adventures, visitors can take a detour through the uShaka Village Walk. Here you will find a vast variety of restaurants, fast food outlets and other tantalizing places to eat – all with breathtaking ocean views. The uShaka Village Walk also features curio shops, outdoor activity sports shops and art and craft shops.

If you plan to spend some time at the beach you will find that the highest precautions are taken to ensure that you are safe and secure at all times. Surfing enthusiasts can hire boards and hit the waves, while first timers can hire surfing coaches to help them perfect their skills. You can also ride in a kayak with an experienced guide.

With so much excitement all at one place, uShaka Marine World will likely continue to be one of the most popular attractions in Durban for many years to come.

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