Battlefields
Traditional dress of the Zulu warriors
A view of the unique huts at Isibindi Zulu Lodge
A re-enactment of the famous Anglo-Zulu battles
Isandlwana Lodge's beautiful elevated view
Spectacular scenery from Three Tree Hill
Learning about the Zulu history
Three Tree Hill Lodge
Fugitives Drift Battlefield
Learning the traditional zulu dance
Traditional Zulu dancers
Fast Facts
On 1st January 1879 at Rorkes Drift, British defenders of a garrisoned mission station heroically resisted a Zulu onslaught. No less than 11 Victoria Crosses were handed out as a result of this fearsome engagement, the most in any single event in British wartime history.
History Brought to Life
The Battlefields has the largest concentration of… wait for it… battlefields in South Africa, drawing visitors from all over the world. It is here that the military engagements that were to shape the course of South African and world history, and rock the pedestal of the British Empire, raged over thorny hills and sweeping grasslands.
Winston Churchill, Mahatma Gandhi, General Louis Botha and Shaka were all great men, and all were present as the battles raged; Ghandi carrying stretchers and the rest strategizing and leading their men onto the battle fields amid the booming of canons, rifle fire and the screams of wounded men.
The Battlefields has the largest concentration of… wait for it… battlefields in South Africa, drawing visitors from all over the world. It is here that the military engagements that were to shape the course of South African and world history, and rock the pedestal of the British Empire, raged over thorny hills and sweeping grasslands.
Winston Churchill, Mahatma Gandhi, General Louis Botha and Shaka were all great men, and all were present as the battles raged; Ghandi carrying stretchers and the rest strategizing and leading their men onto the battle fields amid the booming of canons, rifle fire and the screams of wounded men.
Today the legacy of the Zulu Kingdom's critical, blood-soaked conflicts lives peacefully - reconciled in this fascinating region's Battlefield sites, historic towns, national monuments and museums. The lonely sighs of the wind are the only sounds left and whisper the secrets and sorrows of each great battle, the lone forts and small graveyards the only reminders in this rocky landscape.
Knowledgeable guides will accompany you on tours of the Battlefields, talking you through each battle, debating the strategies used, the numbers who perished and the medals and rewards won by the brave. Themed lodges have been masterfully built to resemble Zulu huts which add a fun and authentic touch to your stay in teh Battlefields.
The area is very beautiful and it is difficult to imagine that the scenic and tranquil landscape was once the focal point of major military clashes, where over a span of 70 years, one historical drama after another unfolded against the backdrop of the Kwa Zulu Safari reserves and the majestic Drakensberg Mountains.
Contact one of our Travel Experts to find out more about the tours and accommodations in the area, and let them help you plan and book your African vacation.
Highlights
Battlefield Tours »
It was among the picturesque hills and rock formations of this sweeping landscape that fearless, spear-wielding footsoldiers of the all-conquering Zulu kings first encountered the rampant British Empire's sophisticated fire- power and where each faced the unfamiliar guerilla-warfare tactics of the Boer - descendants of the west European settlers who five generations earlier had claimed divine right to this 'Promised Land'.
Variety of activities »
This region is naturally most famous for the dramatic battles that raged here over 100 years ago, and the informative and often emotive tours at the various battle sites are most certainly an experience not to be missed. However, there are also a wide range of activities on offer in the area. Scenic walks, game drives and golf are just some of the few alternative activities on offer, that keep visitors coming back time after time.
Insider tips
A two-night stay in the Battlefields Region is a great addition to any self-drive itinerary of Kwa Zulu Natal.
A fully guided tour by an expert guide is simply a must on any stay here. Book in advance.
Nights can be very chilly in this part of the world so having some warm clothes is strongly advisable.
This region is great for the active traveller-there's a whole host of activities on offer other than touring the historic battlefields.
A guided horse-back ride on one of the many private reserves is highly recommended
When to travel
The Battlefields region of Kwazulu Natal is generally seen to be a year round destination for tourists although summers can be very warm indeed and occasionally,fairly wet. In winter (June/July) the mountains in the is region are known to get quilted in snow. Despite these large temperature fluctuations, one can venture into the battlefields any time of year-one has just got to pack accordingly!
Famous Battles
Battle of Spioenkop- At nightfall both parties believed that the other was in control and as result both withdrew from Spioenkop. The Boers eventually realised that the British had abandoned the hill and decided to reoccupy it.
Battle of Rorkes Drift- some 100 British soldiers defended this position against 4 000 Zulu warriors in a 12 hour engagement.
At Isandlwana Hill, a British force of some 1700 men was virtually wiped out by a Zulu army of over 20 000 men under the command of Ntshingwayo Khoza and Mavumengwana Ntuli.
Blood RIver- this famous battle was fought on 16 December 1838. The Boers under Andries Pretorius defeated Dingane's Zulu army.
Battlefields and Surrounds Recommended Lodges & Tours
Fugitives Drift Lodge »
Fugitives Drift Lodge has been attracting and thrilling visitors from all over the world since 1989. The lodge is world famous for its battlefield tours, escorted by knowledgeable and highly-qualified lecturers who tell of tail of this region steeped in history.
Read more »
Isibindi Zulu Lodge »
Isibindi Zulu Lodge is situated in a private game reserve in the beautiful Zululand. The lodge is a peaceful bushveld retreat which also offers a host of activities for guests wanting to experience a combination of luxurious accommodation, game viewing, battlefields and Zulu cultural experiences.
Read more »
Kwa Zulu Natal Explorer »
This itinerary takes you from the Drakensberg Mountains into the historic battlefields region, via a big five safari and on down to the Indian Ocean coastline. Perfect for those looking to get off the beaten track for some once in a life time experiences.
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Three Trees Lodge »
Surrounded by the Drakensberg Mountains, overlooking a secluded valley of the Spioenkop Game Reserve lies Three Trees Lodge. The Lodge has been built on a hillside with beautiful views. The Lodge specialises in the history of the 2nd Anglo-Boer War with the Battle of Spioenkop being our focal point.
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Isandlwana Lodge »
Isandlwana Lodge is carved into the iNyoni rock overlooking Mount Isandlwana, the site of the historic Anglo-Zulu war battle which took place in 1879. Today, the enigmatic mountain of Isandlwana nestles peacefully amongst the majestic beauty of the Zululand hills.
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Cleopatra »
Cleopatra is a gourmet getaway tucked deep into the KwaZulu Natal’s Drakensberg Mountains surrounded by the Giants Castle Nature Reserve. Beautifully situated on the edge of a trout filled dam, alongside the Little Mooi River, the soaring mountains rise majestically from the bottom of the garden.
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Safari, Forest and Beach »
One of the best packages on offer in South Africa, this trip combines game drives in the Kruger with a walking safari before heading on down to the stunning Indian Ocean coastline. Highly recommended for those wanting to combine activity with relaxation.
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Phinda Rock Lodge »
Phinda Rock Lodge is a unique safari lodge comprises 6 stone suites with private decks and plunge pools, offering unrivalled views of the valley below. The dining and sitting areas have imposing fireplaces and open out onto a shaded deck with sweeping views over the African bushveld below and beyond.
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