500+ free-roam venues with happy operators! –
Durban Funworld is undergoing a significant transformation, and at the heart of this redevelopment stands an unprecedented commitment to immersive entertainment—a colossal 1,500-square-metre virtual reality (VR) zone. This isn’t just a new attraction; it’s a game-changer for the region and a bold statement about Durban’s future as a global leader in leisure innovation.
To put its scale in perspective: most family entertainment centers (FECs) might introduce a handful of VR games or dedicate a small area to a single virtual attraction. Here, the new Funworld is allocating an entire 1,500 square meters—about one-third the size of an average Dave & Buster’s venue—exclusively to VR experiences. This extraordinary footprint positions the VR zone not as a side feature, but as the centerpiece of the park’s identity and guest experience.
Within this vast space, visitors will discover over 160 state-of-the-art immersive experiences—from multi-user arenas and free-roaming adventures to cutting-edge racing simulators and family-friendly interactive worlds. The sheer scale allows for simultaneous hosting of multiple large groups, tournaments, and special events—all under one roof. It also means there’s room for continuous updates with emerging VR technologies, ensuring that Funworld remains at the forefront of global entertainment trends.
This investment represents more than just square footage—it signals Durban Funworld’s commitment to bringing world-class innovation to South Africa’s shores. Where other venues dabble in VR, Funworld is making it core to their offering: integrating virtual reality into the very fabric of amusement center design and redefining what visitors can expect from an entertainment destination.
The integration of such an expansive VR zone sets the stage for immersive experiences on a scale never before seen in the region. By dedicating such substantial resources—not just in technology but in valuable real estate—Funworld sends a clear message: Durban is ready to compete with top-tier international venues and become Africa’s premier hub for digital entertainment.
Durban Funworld has a rich history as a beloved beachfront amusement park, bringing joy to families for nearly 50 years. It has become more than just a place for entertainment; it has played a significant role in shaping the social landscape of Durban’s Golden Mile.
Funworld was more than just an amusement park—it was a place where families created lasting memories. Parents would take their children to experience the thrill of the rides and attractions, passing down stories and traditions from one generation to the next. The park’s lively atmosphere added to the vibrant energy of the beachfront, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Unfortunately, Funworld’s journey came to an end in May 2023 when it closed its doors for good. This decision was driven by various factors, including outdated infrastructure and the need for modernization. After many years of operation, the park required extensive renovations that were not feasible within its current framework.
While this closure marks the end of an era, it also opens up opportunities for growth and improvement. The downtime allows for a complete redevelopment plan that aims to preserve the essence of Funworld while introducing innovative experiences.
The site holds a special place in the hearts of community members who have fond memories associated with it. From first dates to childhood adventures and family outings, these stories are cherished among Durban residents. As developers work on transforming this iconic landmark into a new entertainment hub, they are committed to honoring these treasured memories—an important legacy that will be carried forward.
The eThekwini Municipality plans to inject a transformative R1 billion investment into the redevelopment of the iconic Funworld site, marking a significant step in the broader Golden Mile revitalization strategy. This ambitious project aims to reposition Durban as a premier leisure and tourism destination, leveraging cutting-edge entertainment technology and world-class attractions.
Mayor Cyril Xaba shared his vision for the future of Durban’s entertainment landscape:
“This redevelopment signals a new era for the Golden Mile. It’s not just about creating attractions; it’s about building a sustainable entertainment hub that benefits our people economically and socially. We are confident that Durban will emerge as one of Africa’s leading destinations for fun, innovation, and cultural vibrancy.”
The project reflects a strategic commitment by eThekwini Municipality to harness Durban’s unique coastal appeal while fostering inclusive growth through modern infrastructure and exciting new leisure facilities.
The redevelopment introduces exhilarating attractions alongside its show-stopping VR centerpiece. Among these is the Lightning Roller Coaster, delivering high-speed excitement with twists, drops, and loops—all designed with safety as paramount.
Complementing this are vibrant neon-lit rides illuminating after sunset—appealing across generations—and classic amusements like Disko 24 spinning rides or gentle vertical swings suitable for younger guests.
But throughout all these offerings runs one unmissable thread: every guest encounter now revolves around or leads up to South Africa’s most ambitious VR playground—a testament to how digital immersion now stands shoulder-to-shoulder with traditional thrills at Funworld.
The redesigned Splash Park Durban offers dedicated water play areas tailored specifically for younger children—complementing high-energy thrills elsewhere by ensuring every visitor finds their perfect adventure within reach.
These family-friendly features extend Funworld’s new philosophy: innovation everywhere, whether through tech or thoughtful design.
Masithu Consulting Project Managers, supported by internationally recognized amusement consultants Theme Park Project experts, oversee every phase—from design through certification—to guarantee global standards across every ride and especially within complex zones like VR where user safety must meet rigorous benchmarks unique to digital environments.
Funworld’s transformation—including its gigantic VR commitment—not only generates hundreds of jobs during construction but sustains permanent roles once operational. By drawing tourism focused on next-level digital experiences rarely seen on such scale outside major global cities or flagship venues abroad,
the impact ripples far beyond its walls into KwaZulu-Natal’s broader economy.
By retaining beloved architectural motifs while dedicating unprecedented space—and prime real estate—to digital frontiers like virtual reality (far outstripping industry norms), developers ensure nostalgia isn’t lost but elevated alongside world-leading tech innovation.
Key strategies:
With foundational systems due by late 2025—and full public opening targeted for late 2027—the park promises:
In summary: While many parks add small-scale VR corners or single games as novelties—with minimal footprint—Durban Funworld is rewriting expectations entirely by dedicating over 1,500 square meters (the size of several tennis courts placed side-by-side) solely
