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Battlefield storytelling at isandlwana
Mountain scenery & battlefield sites

Historical Site Visits

Nature walks

Why visit the KZN battlefields?

You don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate the evocative power of the battlefield sites which pepper the centre of KZN. All who visit are captivated by the expert story tellers and guides who really know how to bring history alive. These hills witnessed the first major military defeat inflicted upon the forces of the British Empire by colonised peoples, it is about the relationships between the British crown and its subjects, and between the white man and the Zulu. Walking in the footsteps of history is a truly remarkable experience.

Our expert consultants will help plan your trip and can even suggest stays where you can also enjoy nature walks, horse-riding, cycling or community tours to really appreciate the natural beauty, wildlife and culture of the area.

 

Discover the KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields

Close up marker stones at Isandlwana
Fugitives Drift Lodge Battlefield Tour
Fugitives Drift Giraffes

Battlefields Highlights

  • Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift were scenes of epic battles in the Anglo-Zulu war. They may be immortalised on film however there’s nothing quite like standing on the very soil where the battles took place and hearing the tales retold with such passion and respect. A truly moving experience.
  • Winston Churchill, Mahatma Gandhi and Louis Botha (future prime minister of South Africa) all have a part to play in the battle of Spioenkop. From the top of the hill, where the battle took place, you’ll get a real understanding of the challenges the British and the Boers faced in this rugged environment.
  • For those with a keen interest in military history there are further battle sites at Talana, Elandslaagte, Blood River and Colenso.
  • We can recommend lodges where, in between battlefield tours, you can head out on marked trails through nature reserves where you may encounter zebra, monkeys or giraffe. Some lodges also offer mountain bike trails and horse-riding.
Isandlwana Kwazulu natal battlefields

Places to stay in the Battlefields

Fugitives Drift Giraffes
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Explore the KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields Your Way

The battlefields are best experienced by taking one of the guided tours from your chosen lodge. Speak to us to explore how best to incorporate these lodges into your itinerary, and we'll gladly help you find the most suitable options.

Montagu Tunnel self drive SS

Self-Drive Touring

Without doubt a self-drive trip will allow you to easily combine the many highlights of this intriguing province, ensuring you the flexibility to explore the sights at your own pace.

Battlefield storytelling at isandlwana

Guided Tours

Once at your battlefields lodge, guided tours by expert guides are usually on offer to the local battle sites. They have lived and breathed the stories their whole lives and are keen to share this with you.

Fugitives Drift High Res 87

Private Guide

A tour around KZN with a private guide leaves you free to take in the scenery as you go. Transfers to and from the lodges can also be arranged as an alternative way to access the area.

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When to travel to KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields

KwaZulu-Natal is a year-round destination to visit, but as it covers such a vast area, the climate varies. We would recommend the best time to visit from April - September.

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KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields

The main battlefield sites are at Blood River, where the battle between the Zulu & Boers took place in 1838; Isandlwana & Rorkes Drift - where the British did battle with the Zulu in 1879; and Talana & Spionkop where British & Boer troops clashed in 1899 and 1900 respectively.

Other areas to combine with a holiday in the Battlefields

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How to plan a holiday

Your choice of holiday and safari to Africa & the Indian Ocean will be unique to you. 


Using our extensive knowledge, experience and passion for Africa built up over many years, we are perfectly placed to tailor your personalised itinerary.

 

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