Battlefields
The legacy of the Zulu Kingdom's critical, blood-soaked conflicts today lives peacefully, reconciled in this fascinating region's myriad Battlefield sites, historic towns, national monuments and museums.
Battlefields Highlights
The Battlefields in KwaZulu Natal is ideal for visitors interested in history and culture and wanting to explore the fascinating KwaZulu Natal Battlefields, legends of the area. Experienced and knowledgeable guides will accompany visitors on tours of the Battlefields, taking a look back to the 1800's and going through each battle in detail. If these historic legends inspire your adventurous spirit this is the place for you. A variety of outdoor and adventure activities are available; such as, white-water rafting down the rapids of the mighty Thukela, horse-riding, quad-bike rides, nature trails, game drives or sailing on the Chelmsford dam.
- Every town, historical building, battle site and memorial has a fascinating tale to tell, an event to commemorate, a poignant memory to recall.
- Tours of the Battlefields focus on battles fought between the Boers, British and Zulu in both the Anglo Zulu War, as well as the Anglo Boer War.
- Visitors can enjoy outfoor activities, such as, white-water rafting down the rapids of the mighty Thukela and sailing on the Chelmsford Dam.
Fugitives' Drift Lodge is positioned on a 5000 acre Natural Heritage Site and overlooks both Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. Experience thought-provoking tours to Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. Walks and horserides through the reserve are great ways to view the abundant game and birdlife.
Isandlwana Lodge is carved into the iNyoni rock overlooking Mount Isandlwana, which is the site of the historic Anglo-Zulu battle which took place in 1879. Relax at the luxurious lodge and learn about the history of both the Anglo Zulu and Anglo Boer Wars, and enjoy the vibrant culture of the modern Zulu people.
How to get there
Sun Safaris can arrange scheduled flights from most major airports to either Durban or Pietermaritzburg airports for guests who wish to explore the area. The Battlefields also offers easy access from either Johannesburg or Durban for guests who wish to self-drive on good roads. Sun Safaris can arrange a rental car or book a road transfer for guests' convenience. The drive time from Johannesburg will take between 4 and a half to 5 and a half hours; from Durban 4-5 hours.
Battlefields Game Viewing and Activities
The Battlefields is home to some of South Africa's most magnificent game reserves, allowing guests the opportunity to combine Zululand's rich wildlife heritage with the living history of the battlefields. Reserves in the area include Umfolozi and Hluhluwe game reserves. These adjoining game reserves are host to Africa's Big Five; elephant, rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo; however, perhaps best known for the part they played in preventing the extinction of Africa's black rhino population. Both the black and white species of rhino are found here. The Mkuze Falls Game Reserve is world renowned for its abundance of bird life. More than 500 species of birds have been recorded in Mkuze. Other reserves include Itala Game Reserve in the north.
