A bibliophiles paradise. A literary gem in this city. Set upstairs in a lovely building the shop is crammed with books. Specialising in Africana the shop and its late eponymous owner have a rich history. Now owned by Jo who worked for Ike, there is a fantastic selection of books. Travel, politics, history, military history and fiction from nice modern and keenly priced first editions to penguins. All such good value. The various typewriters, the NFS section of books about books and the cookery books in the kitchen are all wonderful. If you have any time to spare between 10am and 4pm in Durban, and consider yourself a book lover, then this is your destination. Those who like art will appreciate their ample section and wide variety on art, with unusual editions about African art standing out. Of course the history sections are broken down into areas such is the quantity available. I was just so impressed. And the service and pleasant atmosphere was terrific.

The pricing is fair but not what one would describe as bargains. The variety and extent of the South African collection in history and politics by period and region is quite exceptional. The collection of texts in African studies as well as western philosophy, literary theory , poetry and literature are also among the best to be found in any bookstores in the country . The investment of a few number of hours and a little greater number of rands will be greatly rewarded.

The book shop is upstairs above the Italian Restaurant Marcos. On arrival there are shelves and shelves of fantastic reads, fiction, non-fiction, fantasy and true African story telling. The view from the balcony is fantastic, a perfect place to sit and sample a book or two. The owner of the book shop is friendly and always willing to recommend a book based on what the reader wants. If you are looking for great African tales, go to Ikes bookshop

If you are a nostalgic person like I am, then you will appreciate this gem of a place. For me, the smell of old books, the wooden floors and memorabilia of years gone by gives this bookstore an authenticity that few retro-modern shops even come close to. I get the sense that Ike's bookstore isn't trying to be retro at all, instead it actually is retro. There's also a good-old-fashioned conversation to be had with the Manager, Jo.

Ike's provides an amazing variety of secondhand books, ranging from classic literature and African writers, to poetry of all kinds, biographies, history books, art, film, photography and design books, geography and sport books, and everything in between. It is a great bookstore if you are searching for a one-of-a-kind or hard-to-find read. I would highly recommend this book lovers dream.

Absolutely the best bookstore in South Africa and one of my favourites shops anywhere. Always amazing selection of second hand books and rare finds, great new South African choices, quiet reading spots, and a wonderful wrap around balcony where they host book launches. It's a must-visit in Durban.

A little gem of a bookstore, tucked away in Morningside. Friendly staff, well versed (excuse the pun) in poetry books thru the centuries... Very affordable old books and service with a smile. Highly recommended as a poet, lyricist and writer :)

Convivial, laid back, lots and lots of books for book lovers, always hosting literary events ie book launches, authors and artists and events. Lovely and lively people who share a love for creativity.

This is paradise for booklovers, be they collectors of first editions or just people looking for budget preloved books. The staff are friendly and the overall experience is quite lovely.

Great place to find out of print publications. Owners buy any old or rare books you are looking to get rid of. Parking is a bit of a hassle. Have to park on road. No closed parking.

Amazing selection of old and new books, somewhere between a secondhand bookshop and a treasure trove of carefully-selected literary delights. Only place to buy books in Durban.

Definitely my favorite bookstore in Durban. A unique space to Explore the history of South Africa with a magical Ambiance like no other bookstore I have been to.

Best bookshop by far. Joanne takes great care putting books in their right place, and with so many that's quite a job. She's found a few obscure books for me. 5⭐

An amazing find for any book lover! You can easily lose hours in this shop if you arent careful, and the staff and service is top notch. 11/10 would recommend!

This is no charity book store. This is for the specialist and collector looking for a meaningful read. All books are second hand so they are cheaper than new.

Favourite book shop in Durban. Joe is fantastic and have found many great treasures on the shelves. Give yourself time to sit and enjoy the space as well.

I love books. I love stories and Jo is incredible. When you are a writer and want a place to read and write. And bonus buy books. Ikes Books is the place.

Good selection of books but not impressed as ive TWICE brought books to sell,( classic and non fictional) and was turned down...totally inconvenienced!!!

Absolutely amazing hidden gem, if you are into antique books and are in Durban, check this place out, there is also a vinyl store next door.

Lovely old fashioned bookshop lots of literary treasures with helpful staff. Could get lost there just browsing. Great atmosphere!

Very friendly and helpful staff. Had exactly what I was looking for and found it within seconds. It also has a nice atmosphere :)

Amazing hidden away gem of an old school style second hand books store. Comfy relaxed atmosphere and friendly welcoming staff.

Good place to got of you want to grab a good book and also go the coffee shop next door while you get lost in the book.

Beautiful 2nd hand bookstore with a great vibe. They also host a market with local talent and entrepreneurs monthly

Awesome bookshop over the decades. From the original Ike to current owner Jo, it has always been the place to go.

Looked everywhere for a proper atlas of the world. Decided to go in here and they have literally everything

A character shop that caters for old used books and many interesting collectables , well worth a long visit

Wonderful place.. such character and atmosphere. Please visit this place and ask for Jo...shes amazing

Goldmine for 2nd hand books. Go there with time, there is too much to see to have a rushed visit.

This places is such a Gem! Simple amazing service. The place itself feels so cozy. Just perfect!

A Durban institution, great place to spend an afternoon looking through interesting books

An impressive collection of books at fantastic prices. Durban's best book store by far!

I adore the quintness. They have a lovely selection, a lot of African authours too!

Great book store, absolutely friendly owner and wide range of books to choose from.

Best second hand book shop in South Africa, the owner is a delightful person too!

What a cute little bookstore. Looking forward to returning to explore some more.

Had a great time.was so good to walk down memory lane. With Aswin and Goolam

Great atmosphere, large assortment of second hand books at decent prices.

The organization by subject needs more attention. Prices are reasonable.

Be kind enough to listen to people on phone and so drop the call on them

Always a pleasure to visit and see new exciting things happening at Ikes

For classic book collectors a must. Great to browse through this store

My favorite place to visit in Durban. The most beautiful rare books.

Truly an amazing throwback. You won't find many like this in Durban.

Great atmosphere with a fantastic selection of books and individuals

Best shop ever for good secondhand books. Owner, Jo is a star.

What isn't there to love about Ikes! A treasure of a place.

Loved being at this bookstore. Will definitely visit again.

Awesome, challenging collection of books and great service

A hidden gem! A must-visit for any literary enthusiast!

Historic bookshop in the quiet part of Florida road

Love this book shop - full of charm and character.

Charming place, well curated, beautiful books.

One of the great bookshops of the world

My Fave Bookstore In DBN ... #Classic

Ikes is the best bookshop in Durban

Such a unique store just loved it!

A bibliophiles dream destination

Excellent spot for booklovers!

Nobody here at 4pm.