Durban Tourism is pleased to welcome Essence Festival Durban back to South Africa from September 26 to October 1, 2017.
.The event will take place at Durban’s International Convention Centre, located just minutes from the city’s magnificent “Golden Mile” beachfront. Bishop T.D. Jakes will serve as the festival’s headline act.
Essence’s “party with a purpose” will feature world-famous speakers, local artists, and international performers, celebrating the spirit of the African continent

A number of travel packages are available from South African Airways Vacations, with prices starting at $1,999 per person for a six-night stay in Durban at a leading four-star hotel, including airfare from New York (JFK) or Washington Dulles (IAD). The 12-day Ultimate South Africa & Essence Festival package starts at $2,699 per person and includes:

  • Two nights in Johannesburg, including a day on the “Journey to Freedom” tour
  • Three nights in Cape Town, including a full-day cultural tour of Robben Island and local townships
  • Four nights in Durban during the Essence Festival
  • Round-trip economy air
  • Round-trip airport transfersEssence Durban
  • Daily breakfast

Extension packages featuring big five safaris and Zulu cultural immersion programs are also available. Full details about the festival and travel packages is available at www.essence.com/festival-durban.