Planning to take the kids out but you have no idea where to start because you are as new to your surroundings as the kids are? Never fear moms and dads. Here are a few places the kids are guaranteed to enjoy.

Durban Ice Rink

What child doesn't enjoy gliding along a floor of ice like a super star?

The Durban Ice Rink is a place for great fun, entertainment, music and dance and even relaxation for the adults who are not daring enough to join the kids.

The park is open from ten in the morning every day of the week till either ten or ten thirty at night.

Address: 81 Somtseu Road, Durban.
Contact details: (031) 267 2414
Price: R25 for morning or afternoon sessions, R30 for evening sessions.

uShaka Marine World

uShaka Marine World really is a world in its own. It spans over 15 hectares of prime beachfront, is Africa's largest marine theme park and home to the fifth-largest aquarium in the world.

There's a lot to do, from taking the wild water rides, visiting the huge aquarium, watching dolphin displays, sampling excellent cuisine at the restaurants, fun-filled water slides in Wet 'n Wild - or simply a lazy day sunbathing on uShaka Beach.

Its fun for everyone and kids will never be out of things to do!

The park is open daily from nine to six in the evening.

Address: 1 Bell Street, Durban
Contact details: (031) 328 8000
Price: For access to the whole park, R95 for kids and R143 for adults.

Mini Town

Visit this exact replica of Durban's central and beachfront areas, but in miniature form. It shows the best-known buildings and landmarks and is an interesting way for both young and old to acquaint themselves with Durban.

The buildings reach just above knee height and provide you with a perspective that would never be appreciated when walking through the city.

Kids will love it because it gives off that "Godzilla Feeling".

Minitown is for the young at heart, and makes an excellent family outing so if you are looking to impress you little ones.

Address: 114 Snell Parade Beachfront, Durban.
Contact details: (031) 337 7892

Fitzsimons Snake Park

The Fitzsimons snake park is home to hundreds of both indigenous and exotic snakes. For you snake-lovers out there they also give talks and demonstrations, repeatedly on a daily basis.

You will be happy to note that they will be secured in glass viewing enclosures (thermostatically controlled of course) to allow you to breath a little lighter.

If arranged you can even view a feeding session. The Park focuses on South African snakes but never fear you'll see snakes from other parts of the world too, Like the Anaconda.

These slithering serpents are always a turn on for the kiddies!

Visit this park open daily from nine to four thirty.

Address: 240 Lower Marine Parade, Durban.
Contact details: mail belcraig@eastcoast.co.za
Price: On request

Fun world:

The Beachfront Amusement Park is a wonderland of fun and fantasy for both adults and kids. It provides secure entertainment for the whole family in a world of carnival lights, music and entertainment.

Kids can spend time enjoying all the fun of the fair.

The bigger kids have the fun and the exhilaration of the Break dance and experience the thrill of the Swingboat, whilst the little ones can experience the Elephant Ride or Carousel.

Opening times vary according to season.

Address: Situated on Marine Parade opposite the Holiday Inn.
Contact details: (031) 332 9776