Get ready, Durban.
Things are about to look a little different.
Durban is about to welcome one of the world’s most fascinating attractions. The globally renowned Museum of Illusions will officially open its doors at Gateway Theatre of Shopping on Saturday, April 25, 2026, bringing its signature blend of science, art and immersive fun to KwaZulu-Natal.
Already a global phenomenon with locations in cities including Madrid, Paris, Amsterdam, New York and Dubai, the Durban opening marks another milestone for the brand’s expansion in Africa. With successful museums already operating in Johannesburg and Cape Town, the Durban location will further cement South Africa as a major destination in the Museum of Illusions’ worldwide network.
Originally founded in Zagreb, Croatia in 2015, the Museum of Illusions has welcomed millions of visitors globally, captivating audiences with its playful mix of perception-bending exhibits and interactive installations. Each museum is uniquely designed, offering visitors a hands-on journey through illusions that challenge the way we see the world.
Mark Collie, owner of Museum of Illusions South Africa, says: “Durban is a city known for its energy, creativity and vibrant culture, which makes it the perfect place for the next Museum of Illusions. After the incredible response, we’ve seen in Johannesburg and Cape Town, we’re excited to bring this experience to KwaZulu-Natal and invite visitors to step into a world where nothing is quite as it seems.”
Situated inside the iconic Gateway Theatre of Shopping, the museum will take visitors on a fascinating adventure through a world of optical illusions, immersive rooms and interactive exhibits designed to entertain, surprise and spark curiosity.
Ditch everything you thought you knew about museum etiquette. At the Museum of Illusions Durban, you’re invited to get hands-on, dive in, and experience it all for yourself. From defying gravity in the Tilted Room to multiplying yourself in the Clone Room or stepping into the hypnotic Infinity Room, every installation is designed to surprise, challenge your perception, and deliver seriously shareable moments.
Built around its signature “edutainment” approach, the experience blends curiosity with play, appealing to kids, grown-ups, and everyone in between. Whether it’s a family day out, a standout date, a team-building session, or content that stops the scroll, the Museum of Illusions Durban will deliver something unexpected at every turn.
The museum also caters for birthdays, school trips, corporate events, and group experiences, making it a versatile venue for a wide range of occasions.
The Museum of Illusions Durban will be open seven days a week:
Mondays to Thursday from 09h00 to 20h00.
Fridays & Saturdays from 09h00 to 22h00 and Sundays and Public Holidays from 09h00 to 19h00.
Tickets will be
available online and at the door, although advance booking is recommended to
avoid disappointment.
Follow our social media for sneak peeks and updates:
MOI Durban Facebook
MOI Durban Instagram
#MOIDurban
For more information or to book tickets, visit the website MOI Durban