One of Durban’s most popular tourist attractions is set to temporarily shut its doors, with uShaka Marine World confirming that its Wet ’n Wild waterpark will close for a short period starting next week.
The closure, scheduled to begin on Monday, 4 May, will see the waterpark section of the facility unavailable to visitors for approximately three weeks.
Why is uShaka Marine World’s waterpark closing?
According to management, the shutdown is part of routine maintenance and upgrades aimed at ensuring the safety and quality of the rides and facilities.
Planned work typically includes inspections, repairs, and refurbishment of key attractions, which cannot be carried out while the park is open to the public.
The “planned maintenance programme” will target some of the park’s most iconic (and high-traffic) features to ensure they remain safe and functional for the upcoming peak seasons.
The maintenance list includes:
- The big three: The waterpark’s three highest slides are getting a full technical check.
- The 5-lane racer: A fan favourite for competitive sliders is on the list for upgrades.
- Pool resurfacing: Multiple pools across the facility will be drained and resurfaced to fix wear and tear.
While the Wet ’n Wild section will be closed, other parts of uShaka Marine World are expected to continue operating, allowing visitors access to marine exhibits, shopping areas and other attractions.
However, those specifically planning trips around the waterpark experience are being advised to adjust their plans accordingly.
A regular seasonal move
Temporary closures of waterparks during quieter periods are not unusual, particularly as operators use the time to carry out essential upkeep without disrupting peak-season visitors.
For Durban, heading into the cooler months from May, this window provides an opportunity to prepare the facility for the busier periods later in the year.
When will it reopen?
The waterpark is expected to reopen on 23 May, although this may depend on the progress of maintenance work.
Visitors are encouraged to check official uShaka channels for updates before planning their trips.
For regular visitors and holidaymakers, the closure may be a short inconvenience, but one aimed at ensuring the long-term safety and enjoyment of one of Durban’s best-known tourist attractions.
