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Daytours KZN

The No.1 Choice for Day Tours in KwaZulu Natal

Battlefields Tour of KwaZulu-Natal

Battlefields tours.

This two day tour includes: the Zulu and Boer War Battlefields : Isandlwana, Rorke’s Drift, Fugitives Drift, Spioenkop and more…

I will fetch clients staying in the Durban and Coastal regions and return you to your accommodation at the end of the tour. We stay overnight in excellent accommodation.

A one day tour is available for tourists who are staying in the Battlefields area.

History of the KZN Battles

While heading out on the Battlefields Tour of KwaZulu-Natal I will give you a “potted history” of what led up to these battles including:

• The arrival of the Black tribes in Southern Africa
• The rise of the Zulu nation and the building of their army
• The arrival of the European/Dutch settlers in the Cape
• The arrival of the British and the establishment of the British Colony in SA
• The migration of the white population to the North (Great Trek)
• The Battle of Blood River
• The British Ultimatum and subsequent invasion of Zululand
• The origins of the Anglo/Boer war
• The control of the country by the Boer descendants and the introduction of the apartheid laws
• The eventual dismantling of white rule and the advent of democracy

The battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal have attracted historians, royalty, military scholars, tourists and family descendants for decades. This has resulted in the Battlefields Tour of KwaZulu-Natal being one of my most popular tours.

I lead regular tours to the area and the following are some of the more popular and important sites we visit.

Anglo/Zulu War

Battle of isandlwana.

This Anglo/Zulu war was one of the most bloody and destructive of all the colonial wars. Here, the British suffered one of the most devastating defeats during the entire colonial era. The defeat temporarily brought the expansion of the empire to a shuddering halt. In the minds of the politicians and generals, this battle was a sure way of incorporating Zululand into the empire. The British believed that their superior firepower and battle skills would ensure their victory.

However, it was not to be. The Zulu Warriors had been trained with battle tactics passed down from the notorious King Shaka. Armed only with spears and shields, the barefooted Zulus overpowered the British forces. The bloody battle lasted a full day.

The panoramic vista from a nearby hill gives a clear view of how the battle was fought and won by the Zulus. We then travel onto the Battlefield and stand where the soldiers fought and died. The battle is brought back to life as we discuss the bravery and suffering of the men and the weapons and tactic’s of the time, accompanied by Zulu and British military music.

Memorials to the thousands of British and Zulu’s who died here have been erected on the Battle site. Piles of white stones mark the places where the British troops perished and are buried, whilst the Zulu dead were taken off the battlefield and buried in the area.

Battle of Rorke’s Drift

A short drive takes us via the Batshe Valley, where we pause to view the area where Lord Chelmsford launched an attack on a Zulu chief’s stronghold.

We continue across the Buffalo River, which was the traditional boundary between the colony of Natal and the Kingdom of Zululand, to the Garrison of Rorke’s Drift. It was at this river point that the British column crossed over into Zululand to do battle with the Zulus.

The British soldiers who survived the Battle of Isandlwana (in Zulu territory) tried to retreat in desperation to the colony of Natal along a route known as the Fugitives Trail, pursued by the right horn of the Zulu army. Many were caught and massacred on the run, and this Impi then defied their  King’s orders and invaded at the famous garrison of Rorke’s Drift.

The story of this world famous battle revolves around the brave determination of the small band of British soldiers who, in the best of British military tradition, took the decision to stand and fight, rather than risk out running the Zulu’s. One hundred and thirty-nine soldiers, some sick and wounded defied the odds and held off a ferocious Zulu onslaught which lasted the whole night. This bravery resulted in the awarding of eleven Victoria Crosses.

Both the Battle of Isandlwana and the Battle of Rorke’s Drift are explained in exquisite detail. History comes alive as we also listen to stirring Zulu and British military music of the time. We retrace the footprints of the soldiers hearing about their barricades and battle strategy. We visit the reconstructed store and hospital and have a walk around the excellent museum.

Lunch is usually taken at the beautiful Rorke’s Drift Hotel on the banks of the Buffalo River. The hotel serves good quality meals which are served by friendly staff.

For those more interested in the outdoors, you may bring a picnic lunch or one can be arranged. Morning tea and restrooms are available at the sites.

Fugi tive’s Drift

As we leave Rorke’s Drift, a stop at Fugitive’s Drift on the Buffalo River rounds off the day. This is the river crossing where a few survivors of the massacre at Isandlwana struggled back into Colonial Natal, pursued by rampaging Zulu warriors.

Hear the story of how Lieutenants Melville and Coghill died in a desperate attempt to save the Queen’s colour, and their controversial awarding of Victoria Crosses.

There are many more stories of tragedy, bravery and cowardice as men fled for their lives. But there’s plenty of time for that when you come on the trip with me…

 Day Two of Battlefields Tour

Anglo/boer war.

The Anglo/Boer war of 1899 has gone down in the annals of British Military history as a David and Goliath struggle in which the out numbered and out gunned Boers initially inflicted  bloody defeats on the mighty British Empire.

Battle of Spioenkop

This important battle involved the British attempts to relieve their forces who were besieged in Ladysmith. After a dramatic and bloody day in which men fought themselves to a virtual standstill, both sides retreated thinking they were defeated.

It was the Boers who reoccupied the hill first and claimed one of the most famous victories of the Colonial era. None other than Winston Churchill, Mahatma Ghandi and Louis Botha, the first prime minister of South Africa, were present at this battle. Each has a tale to tell. We also pay a visit to  the site  where Winston Churchill was captured after a shoot-out with the Boers.

Depending on time and travel arrangements we cover areas like Blood River, the Talana Museum in Dundee, the Siege Town of Ladysmith, Colenso and various military cemeteries and memorial sites in the area. Time permitting and leaping forward by some sixty-five years, we might also visit the Mandela capture site near Howick.

Accommodation

Enjoy some typical South African hospitality in first class accommodation with hosts who love meeting and greeting visitors. Most meal requests can be accommodated. All accommodation is en-suite, private and spotlessly clean.

Rates are among the most reasonable in South Africa.

My personal interest in the Battlefields

My great-grandfather was a soldier in these Battles. He fell in love with the country and decided to make South Africa his home. I’m glad he did, as it has given me  a vast knowledge and passion for these areas. I feel ideally equipped to show you these sites, having an understanding of Zulu and Boer history and culture of the times as well as British Imperial attitudes.

I am also a member of the Battlefields Guides Association and the South African Military History Society.

Make a booking or ask any question through the form below.

Get in touch

No question too big or small. I'm here to help. Drop a line and get the most out of your travel time here.

I can create tours to fit any needs. Just send me a message and I’ll get back to you as quickly as I can.

Customer Feedback

Here then is my acknowledgement to you – Your manner of presentation suddenly made our very dramatic history become more than just a history book to me; not only was your knowledge of facts impressive, but the added details about the personalities, qualifications and motivation of the various generals not only added juicy facts to the historical events that we have heard often enough, but also added a strong degree of anxious anticipation to the many recordings of the atrocious sufferings inflicted on so many as a result of the wars of possession and acquisition of new territory and its available raw materials. I have been in some of those museums before, yet this time that which was exhibited came alive for me for the first time. Thank you for the suitable music, while we were being driven by you, especially the very moving singing of the Welch choir. The quality you put into your tour is MUCH appreciated by all four of us. Yours sincerely, Sonja Clausen.

Dear Don, I want to thank you so much for such a great tour of the  battlefields , we were all captivated by the stories you told, and you really brought everything alive with your depth of knowledge and the music etc! We will recommend you highly to other friends who will be heading to Kwa-Zulu Natal. Thank you so much again, Pollyanna

Rob and Jane are now back in the UK and have taken a lot of good memories with them. You certainly know how to bring history alive. I know it was not really the object of the tour but for first-timers, passing through Tugela Ferry was unforgettable and we spoke about it several times. I imagine Afghanistan to be something like that. Regards, Dave

Dear Don Thought you would like this photo as a souvenir of our day together. You gave us a wonderful tour and we were thrilled with all the information and the sight of so many historical and tragic places. You are a wonderful guide and historian. One day I hope we can do the Boer War sites together. With very best wishes from Ruth, Joan and Jill and myself. Peter Raeburn-Ward

Hi Don, Best Holiday and best day. We are home again safe and sound and with plenty of work to catch up on. But we just needed to let you know how great you helped to make our holiday. My favourite day (apart from the animals of course) was the day we went to Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. I have been listening to the CD’s we got from Isandlwana and can see it all happening in my mind. So I listen to the CD’s to and from work in the car. Any wonder as I go to sleep at night my head is still in SA. I have been telling any one who will listen about how great it all was and how good you and Allan both were. A very big THANK YOU Cliff and Annett Hallam (15 Sept. 2013)

Please click here to read the experiences of more of my customers.

History's Walk

Johann Hamman’s Battlefield Tours

• Testimonials
• A house called History’s Walk
• The Battle of Vegkop

I have a B.A. degree in Military History, and a B.A. Honours degree in International Politics, two Masters degrees, among others, and specializes in the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879 and the Anglo-Boer War of 1899-1902.

My flagship tour is a two-day tour to what we use to call the Big Three, but we have added the Battle of Talana now. ( The Battle of Blood River, Battle of Talana,  Battle of Isandlwana and the Battle of Rorke’s Drift .) I am an independent guide who freelances for all accommodation establishments in the district.

I also do tours to the site of the Battle of Spioenkop and its integrated sites ( Mount Alice and Spearman’s Camp ) , the Siege Museum of Ladysmith, the Battle of Wagon Hill and Caesar’s Camp (also known as Platrand), Colenso, Blaauwkrantz and the Churchill Capture site.

I am an eighth-generation South African from my father’s side, and my family has been in this country since 1732. The government research station Nooitgedacht, outside Stellenbosch, was our family farm, where my ancestor Jan Jurgens farmed wine since 1732. I have four maternal ancestors who fought in the Battle of Blood River (December 16, 1838), two ancestors who were killed in action in the Battle of Magersfontein (December 12, 1899), one ancestor who was killed in action in the Battle of Wagon Point (January 6, 1900), one who died in the Battle of Spioenkop (January 24, 1900), and one who was involved in the capture of Winston Churchill.

I am deeply passionate about the history of my country, and believes that a people who denies their history, does not deserve their future. The majority of my clients are visitors from the United Kingdom, who share a rich history with us, followed by Dutch and Belgian visitors, Americans, Frenchmen, Germans, South Africans, Australians, and even a few from Norway.

Tour Rates/Travel Arrangements 2023/2024  – Johann Hamman

We are very happy to hear that we are no longer on the UK’s red list for Covid 19, and would like to remind all our clients that the battlefields are still here….!!!!

1. COVID19 prerequisites can be observed, but it is no longer compulsory. You will of course be welcome to wear your own masks, if you may so wish. If you do not have one, they are freely available at shops like Pick and Pay.

2. I only do hop-on tours since January 1, 2024, where I join the clients in their own transport, or guide a touring coach. My hop on day fee (private tours, coaches, and travel groups) is    ZAR 2000.00 per day but will be liable to change at short notice. 

Please send me an email at [email protected] to request a detailed tour plan and invoice.

3. Entry fees at Blood River are ZAR 50.00 per adult, and ZAR 20.00 per head, for children. Entry fees at Isandlwana, Rorke’s Drift and Spioenkop are ZAR 40.00 per adult.

4. Hop-on tours can only be conducted from accommodation establishments in or near Dundee. Clients will need to collect me at my office at 110 McKenzie Street, Dundee.

5. Tour fees have been updated for the 2023/24 season. My daily hop-on fee is still ZAR 2000.00 per day, irrespective of the size of the group.

The Tours…!!!

1. The Big Four Tour: (Two days)

This tour fee is ZAR 4000.00 on a hopon for the two days. We will visit Blood River and Talana on Day One, then on to Isandlwana, and then Rorke’s Drift Day Two.

2. Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift:

The same conditions as above apply. We will visit Isandlwana first and then come back to Rorke’s Drift. There are two community-driven shops at each site, where clients can have a look at locally – made crafts and some books. The Anglo-Zulu War tour of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift will also take the best part of the day. There is a small cafe at Rorke’s Drift that can provide light lunches. Two shops sell locally made crafts, for those inclined to buy souvenirs. Availability not guaranteed.

3. Spioenkop and Mount Alice

A light lunch can be obtained at Ladysmith, or lunch packs ordered from the hotel/accommodation establishment, which will be for the client’s account on the day. Please bear in mind that the Spioenkop tour is an extensive one, and will take almost the entire day, with substantial traveling to be done. Bigger coaches will not be allowed to drive up the hill, and shuttling will have to be arranged.

NB: We have had quite a lot of rain from December 2021, so some of the sites may be inaccessible. There is little left of the Colenso site, except Col. Long’s old gun position, the Clouston Garden of Remembrance, and the Ambleside grave site, but you can still make out Buller’s battle against Botha well enough. The loop is very overgrown, as well as Fort Wylie, and you will not be able to reach the Tugela from that site anymore. The Ladysmith Siege Museum is excellent and well worth the visit. Take note that it is not open on Sundays, If you have specific Ladysmith sites in mind, let me know. I like to prepare a bit beforehand.

Remember: Other costs not included in all the above-mentioned fees: 

Entrance fees of ZAR 40.00 per adult per site, and ZAR 40.00 at Talana Museum , ( ZAR 50.00 at Blood River) Personal expenses on the day are for guests’ own accounts. Invoices will be issued upon request.

Closed shoes are recommended, but not compulsory. Insects might be a problem.  Clients will need sun protection during summer, and it can get chilly during winter.  Please be advised that these tours are not really suitable for very young children or babies, as it is a long day. NB: All medical/chronic conditions, especially allergies, asthma and heart problems, must be declared to me before departure . NB….!!!!!    Cancellation policy: Kindly be aware that a 33% cancellation fee will be charged for any battlefield tours that are cancelled seven days or less, before the departure date. Voucher tours that do not get taken up after more than three months, will be cancelled. Any deposits on a voucher will be forfeited in the case of a no-show. A 50% booking fee will be charged should guests cancel with less than two days notice. The full tour/booking fee will be forfeited for non-arrivals and cancellations the day before, or on the date of departure….!!! All tours that are cancelled, must be done in writing, a week before departure. Please send me an email with regard to this.

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Accommodation

Anglo-zulu war, day tours out of dundee.

By late afternoon the first elements of the Zulu Army rushed down on the small, hastily erected, fortification manned by a mere 130 men, mainly of B company 24th ...

Anglo-Boer War

The siege of ladysmith.

In the late afternoon of Monday 30th November 1899 the Boer Forces cut the telegraph line and the rail line into Ladysmith from the south...

Boer-Zulu War

Voortrekker and zulu conflicts.

Blood River is undoubtedly the most pivotal battle in South Africa's history. Here 464 armed Trekkers, having placed their faith in their God...

Some information about BattleScenes, as well as links to Histro-Geographical Papers written by Anthony Coleman

Anthony Coleman

Registration No. KZN0008

All tours and visits will be led by Anthony Coleman who was awarded the KwaZulu-Natal Service Excellence Award - Best Tourist Guide of the Year 2008-2009. A member of the Battlefields Guides Association, Anthony is also an accredited Trainer and Assessor and is a qualified and registered National Guide. Anthony attained Badge 47 from the International Guild of Battlefield Guides.

Climate and the mfecane

South African Journal of Science

The Utrecht District and the Disputed Territory—A Cause of the Anglo-Zulu War Re-Examined

Advances in Historical Studies

BattleScenes provides well researched and vibrantly narrated historical accounts of the culture and conflicts of the region of KwaZulu-Natal. We specialize in presenting well balanced and factual accounts of events and people that made the history of this remarkable part of the world: ever mindful of the fact that most visitors also want to be entertained as well. We cater for the casual visitor as well as the serious military historian and soldier of whatever rank. Trips to any of the well known Game Reserves can be arranged to compliment a tour.

Experience the excitement of a tour to some of the most remarkable Battlefields in the world led by an accomplished, experienced and passionate Battlefields specialist.

• Isandlwana / Rorke's Drift
• Blood River
• uMgungundlovu

We also offer custom tours. Contact us for more info.

Clivia Place | Bed and Breakfast Accommodation

This is a secluded garden cottage situated in a beautiful country garden and run by an experienced caterer - Tish Coleman, whose husband is a resident National and Specialist Battlefield Tour Guide. The cottage accommodates 4 people comfortably with its twin bedroom en-suite and a double bedroom en-suite. The recently built cottage boasts a modern fitted kitchen and comfortable living room, overlooking a tranquil garden with a variety of bird-life. The property is fully fenced with electronic gates and affords secure parking. Washing machine and tumble drier on site. Braai facilities are available. All rooms are fitted with fans for our hot summers and electric blankets for the chilly winter nights.

"The Perfect Place to Stay"

Clivia Place

For enquiries contact Tish Coleman.

Over the years we have had many visitors. View our gallery below.

Legers 2017 Jan/Feb Group from UK

A view of the battlefield of isandlwana, john wells at rorke's drift, descendants of edward browne vc, midlands 4x4 club, jansen family tour, air vice-marshal jon lamonte, alan and marge maker and granddaughter, chris backwith at isandlwana battlefield, dirk and klein dirk buys, lions valley group, penny and mike flack, the belgians - patric and friends, greg and his group from lions valley lodge, thembe and family, shane bartleson from minnesota, dr lossius with sons hans and chris, lt. col. mike mccabe from royal engineers, legendary all black ian jones and springbok centre pieter muller, bobby and cindy zilles from orange vale county, california, jansen tour, dave and karen honour and family from the uk, captains corageous from royal engineers, tim and heather thompson from vancouver.

The Battlefield of Isandlwana as viewed by the Zulu army on the morning of Wednesday 22nd January 1879

Tours are arranged according to needs of the group or individual. Contact us for more information.

BattleScenes

Tel: +27 (0)34 212 3401

Cell: +27 (0)72 204 2986

Tish Coleman

9 Pongola Crescent. Strathmore Park, Dundee, KwaZulu-Natal

Tel/Fax: +27 (0)34 212 3401

Cell: +27 (0)82 506 1125

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5 Day KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields Tour

The KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields Tour is very popular amongst visitors captivated by South Africa's turbulent military history.

• South Africa Tours
• KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields Tour - 5 Days

History buffs will find this private tour unforgtetteable as we visit historic battlefields in KwaZulu-Natal. The most famous of these battles are Talana and Bloodriver in the Anglo-Boer War and Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift in the Anglo-Zulu War. These historic events will come alive in the vivid descriptions of your guide.

Price Per Person Sharing From:

• South Africa

• KwaZulu-Natal

Detailed Private South African Tour Itinerary: 5 Day KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields Tour

Arrival / KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields

Guests are met at any location of their choice in Johannesburg or Pretoria from where the tour travels to northern KwaZulu-Natal . Numerous battles were fought in this area during the 18th and 19th centuries, primarily between the Boers, Zulus and Brits. Upon reaching the overnight destination of Dundee, some time is allowed for freshening up before we visit the Talana Museum. The museum is set at the foot of a hill that bears the same name and is home to thousands of documents and artifacts relating to the Anglo-Zulu and Anglo-Boer wars.

KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields

On this day, we visit the battlefields of Talana and Blood River. The Battle of Talana was fought during the Anglo-Boer War between British and Boer forces. It is the first major conflict in modern warfare supported by long range artillery. A visit to Talana is followed by lunch, after which the tour makes its way to Blood River.

The Blood River Monument is a tribute to the battle of Blood River in 1838. The granite Jaw-bone Monument and bronze wagon laager were built on the site of the original clash. It consists of 64 replica Voortrekker wagons cast in bronze, which commemorate the most famous battle fought between Boer and Zulu forces. We also visit the Ncome Museum, built in the shape of a Zulu war horn formation. The museum offers a re-interpretation of the 1838 battle and the Zulu culture in general.

In all probability the most famous of the Anglo-Zulu battles, today we visit the sites of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift, both not too far from our overnight accommodations. Isandlwana is to this day the battle in which the British suffered the highest number of casualties at the hands of a native army. With the aim of forming a Southern African federation, the British in early 1879 prepared to invade Zululand in an effort to force the Zulu into battle after providing their king with an impossible ultimatum. Under Chelmsford the British were undisciplined in their defence of Isandlwana, which was to have tragic consequences. After overrunning the British encampment the Zulu proceeded to cross the Buffalo or Mzinyathi River into colonial territory and attacked the fortified mission station at Rorke's Drift, under command of Lt. John Chard. The handful of soldiers mounted a gallant defence of the station and successfully rebuffed the attacking Zulu force. The historic defence resulted in the awarding of eleven Victoria Crosses, the most ever received in a single action by one regiment. After our visit to these historic sites the tour returns to your overnight accommodations in the middle to late afternoon.

KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields / Drakensberg

From Dundee, we make our way to Ladysmith, where a stop is made at the Siege Museum, considered to be one of the most comprehensive Anglo-Boer War museums in the country. It had its humble beginning as a vegetable market store in 1884, and today it houses one of the greatest collections of artifacts from the Siege of Ladysmith and the Anglo-Boer War of 1899 - 1902. From Ladysmith, the tour makes its way to the Drakensberg mountain range , named by the early Dutch Settlers for its resemblance to the ridges of a dragon's back. The steep ridges of the mountains were formed by headwater erosion of rivers, which separate South Africa's highveld plateau from the coastal lowlands.

A morning spent at leisure enjoying the mountain scenery is followed by the return journey to Johannesburg, where guests are assisted with check in at the airport. Alternatively, guests can be transferred to any location of their choice in either Johannesburg or Pretoria after a memorable South African tour.

• 3 Nights Penny Farthing
• 1 Night Montusi Mountain Lodge
• Private African Sky Guide: From Day 1-5
• Private Air Conditioned Vehicle: From Day 1-5
• All meals specified in the itinerary
• Talana Battlefield Site & Museum
• Blood River Battlefield Site & Ncome Museum
• Isandlwana Battlefield Site
• Rorke's Drift Battlefield Site
• Ladysmith Siege Museum
• Tourism levy
• All applicable taxes
• All park fees where applicable
• International airfare (to and from South Africa)
• Personal and medical insurance
• Activities not specifically stated in the itinerary
• Meals not specifically stated in the itinerary

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• Ekala Eco Tours contact
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KZN Battlefield Tours, South Africa

Kwazulu-natal battlefield tours.

Private – professional as well as fully guided KwaZulu-Natal battlefield tours – South Africa.

South Africa – KZN Private Battlefield Tours.

Battlefield tours – British/Zulu/Boer War private KZN tours

Voortrekker – zulu battles – first anglo-boer war – anglo-zulu war – anglo-boer war., south africa battlefield tours – anglo/boer – anglo/zulu and voortrekker/zulu – kwazulu-natal..

Military battles and engagements that shaped the course of South African and world history. Thus 70 years of major battles, in the scenic central to northern KwaZulu-Natal.   Consequently the KZN region has the largest concentration of battlefields in South Africa. Our battlefield tours therefore have one historical drama unfolding after another.   Battlefield’s against a backdrop of the African veld. In addition, picturesque hills and rock formations of the magnificent Drakensberg mountains.   KZN Battlefield tours across this incredible part of South Africa. For clarity – KZN is simply an abbreviation of KwaZulu-Natal.

Thus, KwaZulu-Natal has the largest concentration of battlefields in South Africa.

Battlefield tours through areas of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. While drawing visitors from around the world.

Ekala Eco Tours cover the Battlefields tour with departure or alternatively return to Johannesburg .

Above all our KZN tours are private only – even private/solo tour for 1.

Thus important heritage and battle sites visited  – dependent on duration of tours and the route to be used: Blood River – Zulu/Voortrekker. Battle of Isandlwana – Anglo/Zulu. Battle of Rorkes Drift – Anglo/Zulu. Schuinshoogte – First Boer War. Majuba – First Boer War. Dundee, Talana – effectively start of Anglo/Boer War. Willowgrange – Anglo/Boer War – Most southern point that Boers under General Louis Botha reached in the opening stages of the war. Elandslaagte – one of the only clear-cut tactical victories by British during early stages of Boer War. Last effective use of traditional British cavalry charge. Armoured train incident and arrest site of Winston Churchill. Siege of Ladysmith – including 4 significant battles and cemeteries – including Battle of Colenso and gun positions where Freddy Roberts (son of General Roberts) lost his life. Battles of SpioenKop, Tugela Heights and Vaalkrans. Chieveley plus Clouston Field plus Ambleside Military Cemetery. Battle of Platrand – only serious Boer attack on British lines defending Ladysmith during siege of Ladysmith.

Indeed, every battlefield, town, battle related site and historic building in KwaZulu-Natal region has an intriguing tale to tell. No South Africa visit should miss a tour through the KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields. Accordingly the KZN Battlefield tour is a journey of discovery.

KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields in towns or surrounding areas of: Colenso, Dannhauser, Dundee, Estcourt, Glencoe, Greytown, Ladysmith, Newcastle, Utrecht and Weenen.

Then additionally can cover Battlefields or items related to these in Gauteng (Johannesburg, Pretoria, and surrounding areas) before departure to KwaZulu-Natal or on return.

Pretoria historical tour from perspective of Boer War

Johannesburg:

Johannesburg tours from perspective of causing Boer War

Military Museums:

Johannesburg National Museum of military history 

Lord Robert’s route:

Western Campaign – Lord Robert’s route from the Cape Colony to Pretoria – Anglo-Boer War

Through today’s provinces of Western Cape, Northern Cape, Free State and Gauteng.

This is a route not as well visited as the Kwazulu Natal Battlefield route.

Battles include that of Sannaspos, Poplar Grove, Paardeberg, Modder River, Magersfontein, Belmont, Graspan.

Then sieges of Kimberley and Mafeking.

The most significant battles of Lord Robert’s Western Campaign took place within an approximate radius of 100 km around Kimberley.

As Ekala’s Battlefield tours are private only, we can cover Lord Robert’s route as an alternative route to the Kwazulu-Natal Battlefield route.

Dependent on your requirements and perhaps whether your family member was part of Buller’s column or that of Lord Roberts.

KwaZulu-Natal’s most important Battlefields

Tailor-made private KZN battlefield tour experiences – accordingly structured around your requirements and timing.

Gqokli Hill 1818 – Ndondakusuka 1856 – Tshaneni 1884

Voortrekker – Zulu Wars – 1836-1852

Dutch descendants left the Cape Colony, dissatisfied as a result of being subjected to British domination. Thus, looking for political self-determination.

Thus, the Voortrekker’s headed inland. However, once across the Drakensberg Mountains, they encountered Zulus with inevitable problems arising.

Saailaager Estcourt Area 12 February 1838 – Zulu massacre of groups of Voortrekker’s after execution of Piet Retief at Zulu royal settlement near Ulundi.

Veglaer Estcourt Area 13 -15 February 1838 – Three day Zulu attack on Voortrekkers.

Bloukrans – Estcourt Area 16 to 17 February 1838. Many Voortrekker families were subsequently annihilated during the Zulu attack.

Rensburg Koppie – Estcourt Area 17 February 1838. Young Martinus Oosthuysen courageously saved three Voortrekker families from Zulu attack.

Blood River battle – Dundee Area 16 December 1838. 460 Voortrekker’s defeated Zulu army of 15 000 in wagons set in battle laager. As a result of this, the bloodbath remains known as ‘ Battle of Blood River ‘. We generally visit both sites at the location of this battle. Gives a better opportunity to understand the complexities of the battle from both the Voortrekker and Zulu perspectives. Voortrekker site including the bronze wagon battle laager and Ncome museum covering the then Zulu King, Dingane and Zulu culture and battle tactics.

Anglo-Zulu War 1879

An ultimatum including a list of demands was then handed to the Zulu King Cetshwayo on 11 December 1878. The King consequently failed to respond by the deadline – New Year’s Eve 1878.

As a result, his silence was to be interpreted as defiance, and the British declared war. Then British generals grossly underestimated the courageous Zulu’s, fighting ability. Indeed, the defeats and disasters that followed shook the British Empire to its core.

Nyezane Eshowe Area 22 January 1879.  While British troops were moving up Natal north coast they came under attack by approximately 4000 Zulus as they crossed Nyezane River.

Battle of Isandlwana Nquthu Area 22 January 1879 British forces consequently split by 15 000 Zulus.   As a result, after 2 hour battle, only 74 of the 1500 original British force survived. We visit the Isandlwana battlefield from various sites, during stages of the battle and then looked at from both the Zulu perspective and British.

Fugitives Drift 22 January 1879 Survivors of Isandlwana had followed Fugitives’ Trail, then crossed the Buffalo River at Fugitives’ Drift. Queen’s Colour was consequently lost at Fugitives Drift.

Battle at Rorke’s Drift Dundee Area – Swedish mission station built at Rorke’s Drift crossing. Used by British as a magazine and field hospital.   22 – 23 January 1879. Within hours of the Battle of Isandlwana, 100 British soldiers at Rorke’s Drift then held back 4 000 Zulus for 12 hours.   However the Zulu’s did finally retreat. And so leaving over 500 of their dead behind. Accordingly to only 17 British fatalities.   As a result 11 Victoria Crosses were awarded at the battle of Rorke’s Drift – most ever awarded for a single battle.   Our visit to the Rorke’s Drift site is commonly with lunch overlooking original spot where the drift crossing was. Not only a good lunch but an excellent point to “see” the story unfold in front of you. This piece has been lost after the tragic death of Captain Charles Aikenhead who died tragically whilst attempting to put out a fire. The Rorke’s Drift Hotel has now been closed.   Battles of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift certainly of the 2 most known South Africa battles. We therefore spend as much time in area as timing may allow.

Ntombe drift Paulpietersburg area 12 March 1879. British troops unsuccessfully tried to defend themselves against superior Zulu force, consequently losing 73 men. While Zulu casualties were negligible.

Hlobane Vryheid Area 28 March 1879. Significant British defeat, while losing fifteen officers and 110 soldiers. Additionally a further 8 wounded.   A Victoria Cross was awarded at this battle to a significant figure of the Second Boer War that was consequently to follow in the next two decades. General Redvers Buller.

Khambula Vryheid Area 29 March 1879 – Over 22 000 Zulu warriors attacked fortified British position.   4 hour battle ending with Zulu’s being driven off and thus pursued on horseback till nightfall. Consequently this crushing defeat proved to be turning point of the Anglo/Zulu War.

Gingindlovu Eshowe Area 2 April 1879 – Zulu attack on relief column, while on way to relieve Eshowe. Zulu’s consequently repulsed and Eshowe relieved following day.

Scouting party 1 June, 1879 – Great-nephew of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, Prince Louis Napoleon was killed. Exiled to England in 1870 had then requested permission from Queen Victoria’s to accompany the fresh British troops to South Africa.

Ulundi Battlefield Ulundi/banks of Umfolozi River – 4 July 1879. Final battle of Anglo/Zulu War, consequently ending with capture of Zulu King Cetshwayo. Zulus forced to attack British fighting square directly in a battle they did not want.

British veterans of the Anglo-Zulu War, however, soon found themselves again at war.

Transvaal (first anglo-boer) war of independence 1880–1881.

Laing’s Nek – Volksrust/Newcastle – British forces first attempt – 28 January 1881, to thus invade the Transvaal, Boer territory – failed.   Schuinshoogte Ridge Volksrust/Newcastle – 8 February 1881 – British forces second attempt to then invade the Transvaal. However surrounded by Boers on top of Schuinshoogte.

Majuba – Volksrust/Newcastle Area – 27 February 1881. British forces driven off Majuba Mountain. Having sustained heavy casualties and thus forced to negotiate a peace treaty.   Armistice then signed at home of Eugene O’Neill on the foot of Majuba, with peace treaty signed in Newcastle.

Majuba is certainly one of the most significant and well-known South African battles – like the battles of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift

The eye-catching battle formation of British forces, scarlet uniform and white helmet consequently saw the tide turn against the British.

The Gold Rush of 1886 in the Zuid- Afrikaanse Republiek (Johannesburg, Transvaal) further undermined the Boers’ security with a massive influx of British into the area.

Then the inevitable occurred at 5 p.m. on 11th October 1899. Britain was however confident the war would be over by Christmas.

However, small bands of Boer volunteers from the Republics of Transvaal and Orange Free State were to prove they had been underestimated.

Private, professional, and reliable tailor-made Battlefield tours.

Kwazulu-Natal or anywhere in South Africa, where your ancestor may have been.

Anglo-Boer 1899 -1902 – while today generally referred to as the South African War.

Consequently, half a million British troops to an estimated 78 000 Boers.

Talana – Dundee 20 October 1899. Thus the first battle of Anglo Boer War. Boers invaded from 2 fronts, from the Orange Free State and the Transvaal.   Invading into North East Natal before clashing with British troops at Talana Hill. While British wore Khaki, painted Redcoats for the first time.

Elandslaagte – Glencoe/Ladysmith 21 October 1899. British victory freeing a rail corridor for Talana Hill. Survivor’s escape to Ladysmith. A Johannesburg resident – Major Charles Herbert Mullins played a significant role in this British victory and received the Victoria Cross.

Nicholson’s Nek 30 October 1899. Humiliating defeat for British with eight hundred soldiers being taken prisoner.

Siege of Ladysmith 2 November 1899 – 28 February 1900 – British regiments massing in Ladysmith, encircled by hills.   A strategic blunder by British, Allowing a 118 day siege by the Boers, cutting off the area and harassing the British with impunity. British officers were ordered to relieve the town at all costs.

Armoured Train confrontation – Colenso Area of KwaZulu-Natal, 15 November 1899. Boers ambushed and derailed an armored reconnaissance train. A number of British soldiers were killed and some captured, including Winston Churchill.   A Sandhurst trained soldier, Churchill was working as a newspaper correspondent for the London Morning Post. He was able to escape from the Transvaal, returning to Natal to join effort to relieve Ladysmith. In time to play an active part in the battle of Spioenkop.

Willowgrange – Estcourt Area 23 November 1899. Southernmost point reached by Boers.

Start of attempts to relieve Ladysmith:

Colenso 15 December 1899. British first attempt to cross Tugela River, failed, with significant British losses. Battle of Colenso was the first military confrontation to be recorded on cine-film.

Platrand battle – 6 January 1900

Spioenkop 24 January 1900. The bloodiest of efforts to relieve Ladysmith. Pointless attempt by British with 500 losses and Boers relatively unscathed.   A volunteer stretcher bearer to the battle was lawyer, Mohandas (Mahatma) Gandhi.   War correspondent at Spioenkop – Winston Churchill. Boer General – Louis Botha. 3 people to play significant roles in their lives.

Vaalkrans – Ladysmith/Winterton 5 February 1900. British regiments again failed to breach enemy lines. Britain began what was to become the biggest offensive in the Southern Hemisphere until the Falklands War. With half a million troops, to an estimated 78 000 Boers.

Tugela Heights – Colenso Area – 21 -27 February 1900. Numerous hard-fought battles in the hills surrounding Ladysmith, leading to eventual relieving of Ladysmith by the British.

After the relief of Ladysmith:

Helpmekaar 13 May 1900. British troops penetrating Boer defenses in the Biggarsberg leading to the recapturing of Dundee.

Scheepersnek – Vryheid Area 20 May 1900.

Botha’s Pass Newcastle Area – 8 June 1900. Pass captured by British, opening route into Orange Free State. Within a few weeks, British were also able to break through into the Transvaal Boer Republic.

Blood River Poort – Vryheid Area 17 September 1901. British attempts failed to prevent Boers breaking through from the Transvaal. This battle saw the Boers capture three field guns and killing 16 British officers and 273 enlisted men.

After the surrender of Pretoria:

Intermittent battles continued for eight and a half months between the British and Boers, throughout many areas of South Africa, mainly in northern KwaZulu-Natal, Cape Colony, Transvaal, and the Orange Free State.

This came to an end on the 31st of May 1902 with the signing of the Peace Treaty in Vereeniging.

Although battles came to an end, bitterness by the Boers was to remain for many decades, due mainly to concentration camps, set up by the British for Boer and any other civilians that were caught up in the war.

During the three-year war, some 12 000 Boers and British soldiers died in battle. However, a staggering 42 000 people died in these British concentration camps.

British financial losses for the three years Anglo-Boer War were a staggering 200 million pounds.

Personal Note: The Boer War, today generally referred to as the South African War.

This is not a term I use on this page or my Battlefield tours. It is an incorrect term and misleading.

The first time the term “South Africa” could be used was at unification to become the Union of South Africa in 1910. Thus, as the war took place 10 years previously, cannot correctly be the South African War.

Thus, all my references – Second Anglo/Boer War or in some cases simply the Boer War.

Battlefield tours – Anglo Boer – Anglo Zulu – Voortrekker Zulu Battles

Blood River Isandlwana Rorkes drift Dundee Talana – Ladysmith SpioenKop Elandslaagte Tugela Heights Colenso Majuba Schuinshoogte Many more battles

Johannesburg and Pretoria inclusion in battlefield tour .

Our experience opinion – these are a vital part of any battlefield tour – as Johannesburg being the cause of the war and Pretoria being the intended destination to end the war. Including the Battle for Johannesburg, with Roberts again splitting his forces to attack Johannesburg from the west and east.

Battlefield routes elsewhere in South Africa

Gauteng – Province that Johannesburg and Pretoria are part of, then have many important sites related to the first and the Second Boer War (Anglo Boer War). Including the Magaliesberg battlefield route.   Johannesburg: With its gold mines, Johannesburg was the cause of the Boer War. Yet suffered little military action.   Home to the then reform committee, those involved in the failed Jamerson raid against Paul Kruger’s government. Jameson raid laid a significant part of the foundations for the Boer War.   The Johannesburg Fort – one of 6 built by Paul Kruger just before the Boer War. Today part of Constitution Hill.   The least known of  the above mentioned forts is the Van Wyk Rust Fort. The most southern of all forts built on the access road to what became Johannesburg. This fort also used for a short duration as a jail.   Located close to the Ekala Guest House and although when we started with the battlefield tours 18 years ago, this fort was still reasonably intact. However, today it has almost completely been destroyed.   Braamfontein Cemetery – resting place, apart from most of Johannesburg’s forefathers, additionally Boers and British who died towards the end of the war. Including British soldiers who died of disease.   Sunnyside (today a hotel) became Lord Milner’s house in Parktown, Johannesburg. As Britain’s High Commissioner.   Turffontein Boer War Concentration Camp: Site today is the Turffontein race track – horse racing. Boer graves were some distance from the camp and were moved in the 1970’s to make way for a residential area.   South African National Museum of Military History: Located in Johannesburg, covering all of the wars/battles listed: Zulu Wars Anglo-Zulu War First Anglo Boer War 2nd Boer War – now generally referred to as the South African war.   South of Johannesburg – The Witkop Blockhouse: Erected and used by the British during the Boer War, at the time of the scorched earth policy.   Further south of Johannesburg: Boer War Concentration Camps: Heidelberg and Vereeniging.

Pretoria: Boer Transvaal capital and objective of the British army. Including two forts (Schanskop and Klapperkop). German built forts, targeted by Lord Roberts in 1900 and Schurveberg (Proclamation hill today) that saw the proclamation of Pretoria being declared an “Open City”.   Both forts are visited on our Johannesburg/Pretoria part of the Battlefield tour – Fort Schanskop and Fort Klapperkop.   West Fort/Fort Daspoortrand – Unlike the other forts, this fort built by the French firm of Le Creusot – Long Tom Cannon fame. Largest of the 4 Pretoria forts.   In all cases, the Creusot – Long Tom Cannons had been removed from the forts at the start of the Boer War. Three were sent to Ladysmith and fourth to Kimberly.   Irene Concentration Camp: No museum on the site, all that remains are graves of over 1200 Boer woman, elderly and children. Largely forgotten consequence of the Boer War.

Melrose House – Victorian house where in 1902 the peace treaty to end the Boer war was signed. Additionally, in the house today is actual table the treaty was signed on.   Also the residence of Lord Kitchener, British commander-in-chief at end of Boer War.   Voortrekker Monument – accordingly important to the overall understanding of Boer/Afrikaner culture.   Additionally is a vital point in understanding of the Battle of Blood River. Then also one of the cannons used in this battle is on display – the original.   Burghers Park: Named after former Boer President Thomas Burghers.

East of Pretoria: Diamond Hill Battlefield or referred to as the battle of Donkerhoek. Also forms part of the Magaliesberg battlefield route.   The battle taking place east of Pretoria after General Lord Roberts had met no resistance when they entered Pretoria.   Krugersdorp: Important to both first and second Boer Wars. First Boer War: Men gathered in the area of Paardekraal at onset of the First Boer War. Led by Paul Kruger, Piet Joubert and Marthinus Pretorius.   Part of Paardekraal later became the city of Krugersdorp, named after President Paul Kruger.   Second Boer War: Jameson Raid laid the foundations for the war. The raid ended with the raiders capture just outside Krugersdorp.   Magaliesberg: First Boer War – Battle of Bronkhorstspruit (1880) Some significant battles towards end of the (second) Boer War, including battle of Nooitgedacht (1901) with Boer generals Koos de la Rey and Christiaan Beyers.

Danie Theron Monument/Memorial: Gatsrand. Built on the site where Danie Theron, a Boer hero was killed during latter stage of the Anglo-Boer War.

Danie Theron, buried close to the Ekala Guest House on the southern side of Johannesburg

Flights to and from Durban KZN:

This is not necessary and effectively consumes more time than what it saves – and the related costs. We travel by road to KwaZulu-Natal – covering the route used by the British in the First Boer War (including Majuba) one way and the Second Boer War the other way.

Thus, a far bigger perspective and coverage. As private – we can break the drive as suitable to the client. The longest drive is generally on day 1 of the KZN part of the package – from Johannesburg to Spioenkop – 4 hours – but with an early departure from Johannesburg, this is even broken by an early breakfast halfway. This is all stated if the client has problems with long-distance travelling.

Ancestry tourism:

Researching your Boer War ancestors? Explore the battles they participated in during the Anglo-Zulu War and Anglo-Boer Wars. As a collector and enthusiast of South African Medals, you seek to connect your collections with the locations where your ancestors once fought. Ekala can help.​

Military tourism:

Memorials, battlefields, forts, and war museums.

Appreciation of South Africa’s multifaceted battle heritage.

Best ability to contact Ekala for a KwaZulu-Natal battlefield tour:

[email protected]

Indeed – we will respond within 24 hours to any battlefield tour enquiry. In most cases less. However, does depend on time differences.

Then cell phones can create some problems. Additionally, due to time differences or that, we may all be on tour and thus unable to answer your call at that time.

Thus, email works perfectly.

Additionally, difficult to deal with battlefield tour specifics on a cell phone.

No KZN Battlefield tour prices on our website as a result of the unique, individual and specialised requirements for each battlefield tour we supply.

Indeed, Ekala structure around your individual requirements.

Thus, if time is limited:

We accordingly structure tours from arrival to departure – including airport collection and drop off.

As a result, battlefield tour quotes based on your specific requirements.

KwaZulu-Natal Battlefield tour to remember for the right reasons

Let Ekala Eco Tours provide the gateway to your discovery of South Africa.

Specifically the Battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal

Superior photographic opportunities, then paired with knowledgeable professional guides.

Thus providing a unique battlefield tour experience.

Ekala’s guides are well-spoken, thus providing interesting detail and clarity while on a battlefield tour.

Accordingly, encouraging active engagement between guide and guest, both while travelling and on the battlefield or related site.

Battle sites and battlefield graves actually hold the memories and unique stories of days gone by.

Battlefield museums can show the information – but only actual battle-related sites can truly tell the story.

With the help of a good, knowledgeable battlefield tour guide.

Solo Tours:

Solo South African safari and travel:

South Africa safari and ecotourism holiday, then catering for the single/solo traveller.

Indeed, for all diverse interests and ages.

Then, accompanied by Ekala’s professional guides.

As a solo traveller, a private tour accordingly customised to your personal needs.

Hence, providing quality time on your interests and requirements.

While striving to make the best, long-lasting memories for you.

Ekala’s battlefield tours can above all be adapted to client’s individual needs.

Thus, we accommodate specific tour and personal requirements.

 Responsible and ethical tourism/consumerism.

For multi-day safari tour package – Ekala Guest House

Guest House Southern Johannesburg

A short selection of Ekala Eco Tours most popular package safari and tour options

South Africa safari tour packages

Linked to South Africa’s difficult past.

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• Fugitives’ Drift
• The Rattray Family
• The David Rattray Foundation
• The Guest House
• Umzinyathi & Kwa-George
• Recommended Itineraries
• Conservation Levy
• Book Online
• Isandlwana & Rorke’s Drift
• Melvill & Coghill
• Other Battlefield Tours
• Nature Walks and Birding
• Trail Running
• Mountain Biking
• Battlefield Kids
• Our Lecturers
• Ride for a Reason
• Conferences

Flagship Tours

The Anglo – Zulu War of 1879

In 1879, the British invaded Zululand. The central of the three major invading columns forded the Buffalo River at Rorke’s Drift. Within days Lord Chelmsford’s invasion was in jeopardy. Part of his central column had been almost annihilated at Isandlwana, in a battle rated as one of the greatest military disasters in British colonial history. A few survivors struggled back into Natal, crossing the mighty Buffalo River at the Fugitives’ Drift. Lieutenants Melvill and Coghill died in a gallant attempt to save the Queen’s colours of their regiment, earning the first posthumous Victoria Crosses in history. A great wing of the Zulu army went on to attack the British garrison at Rorke’s Drift, and these warriors were beaten off in a battle that lasted all night; an action that saw the awarding of 11 VCs and 5 DCMs.

Fugitives’ Drift Lodge and Guest House is renowned for its flagship battlefield tours to Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift, which are conducted daily. These thought provoking and often emotionally charged tours leave our guests with a more profound appreciation of modern-day South Africa. Long family associations with the area and its people allow Fugitives’ Drift to offer unique Zulu perspectives on these remarkable battles.

The Battle of Isandlwana | 22 nd January 1879

The Battle of Isandlwana, during the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879, has been the subject of conjecture and controversy for 140 years. It is arguably the greatest defeat that the British Empire was ever to suffer in her entire colonial history; in two short hours a modern British army was destroyed. But, was this truly a British defeat? Is it explained away by incompetence, failings in supply, or overconfidence? Or, was it due to the astounding leadership and motivation of the Zulu forces? Calling on the old Zulu stories of the battle to recreate the events of the day, our guides will explain how this battle was won, giving insight to the brave warriors and Zulu chieftains who fought and died in defence of their King and country.

The tour to Isandlwana leaves from Fugitives’ Drift Lodge at 7:30am, and is typically back by 1:00pm. Our guests embark on the morning excursion in a closed vehicle, listening to a narrative recorded by the late David Rattray from The Day of the Dead Moon. This narrative gives the background to the conflict and weaves together some of the early history of South Africa in a fantastic story, full of human courage, endeavor and folly. The drive is about 35km. Once out of the Fugitives’ Drift reserve, the track meanders to the Buffalo River, crossing at Rorke’s Drift. The route then follows the British line of advance. There are a couple of stops made en route to the Isandlwana battlefield; these are at the most poignant parts of the journey, allowing the guide to begin to weave the stories together and give our guests an appreciation of how the invasion got started. The first view of the battlefield is from the Nqutu Escarpment, the high ground from which the Zulus attacked the British camp. The next stop is at the Isandlwana museum, after which guests are taken onto the battlefield itself, and told the story at the foot of the Isandlwana Mountain. On this natural stage, our guides put into vivid detail the desperate struggle of the morning of 22 nd January 1879. After the tour, our guests are encouraged to roam the battlefield and explore this most unspoiled of places. The eerie silence between the mass graves and the lion like crag of the mountain brooding; it is a truly is a magnificent place.

The Battle of Rorke’s Drift | 22nd January 1879

R 968 per person for the Rorke’s Drift Tour R 968 per person for the Isandlwana Tour R 1936 per person for both the Rorke’s Drift and Isandlwana tours. This includes both tours, transport, entrance fees and refreshments.

OTHER TOURS

Children’s Policy

Due to the length and content of the tours, we do not normally allow children under the age of 12 years to go on these tours. It will be at the lecturer’s discretion as to whether we can accommodate children younger than 12 on the tours or not. We do offer child-minding facilities at a nominal fee whilst parents are out on tour and in the evening while parents are at dinner. For the keen junior historians our Battlefield Kids ‘Tour’ program is an excellent option.

Itineraries

We recommend a three night stay, as this allows you to do the two flagship tours in the correct historical order, without doing them on the same day.

On a 1 night stay, we recommend that you arrive before 1pm in order to join the afternoon tour to Rorke’s Drift. You would then do the Isandlwana tour the following morning and depart either after lunch or directly after the tour.

1 Night Itinerary

On a 2 night stay, you may choose whether to join the tour to Rorke’s Drift on the afternoon of your arrival or to wait until the following afternoon and undertake the tours in the correct historical order.

2 Night Itinerary

On a 3 night stay, you may split the tours and go to Isandlwana on the morning after your arrival and Rorke’s Drift on your second afternoon, thereby having the time to relax and enjoy other activities.

3 Night Itinerary

A four-night stay is perfectly suited to those who would like to see a little more than Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift, or for those who are keen to spend a day relaxing and enjoying everything the lodge and guest house have to offer.

4 Night Itinerary

• Advance Pricing Agreements Oecd
• Wann arbeitssuchend melden befristeter Vertrag
• Vodafone Vertrag angebote ohne handy
• Vitra stoffmuster bestellen
• Vertragslaufzeit telekom internet
• Vertraglich entgegenkommen englisch
• Versailler Vertrag ebert
• Terrassensteine Muster
• Telekom Vertrag günstiger machen
• Telekom e mail adresse ohne Vertrag
• Tarifvertrag systemgastronomie hessen
• Tarifvertrag mfa azubi
• Tarifvertrag ihk nrw groß und außenhandel
• Tarifvertrag gebäudereiniger west
• Tarifvertrag einzelhandel münchen
• Tarifvertrag brauerei berlin
• Tarifvertrag apotheker mecklenburg vorpommern
• Tapetenmuster für wohnzimmer
• Suchtverlauf Muster alkohol
• Stoff indisches Muster

Zululand & the Battlefields Holidays

The road from Empangeni on the coast up into the hills is very beautiful. It winds through sugar cane fields that give way to orange groves and banana plantations as the landscape becomes increasingly hilly. These are the fertile hills of Zululand, traditional homeland of the Zulu people. The word Zulu means ‘heaven’ and Zululand, or KwaZulu is ‘the place of heaven’. Although famous battlefields bear witness to historic conflicts, this is peaceful farming country where people still enjoy a rich culture and live pretty much as they have always done.

Anglo Zulu War

More than a century after the events, 20,000 British people still visit the battlefields every year! This is about much more than a battle.

These events are imprinted on the psyche of both the British and the Zulu. These hills witnessed the first major military defeat inflicted upon the forces of the British Empire by colonised peoples - before the tables turned so that, for over a century, a proud warrior people was reduced to a nation of miners and garden boys.

A visit to the battlefields is one of the most fascinating things you can do in South Africa and, unless that is your thing, it has nothing to do with military history.  It is about the relationships between the British crown and its subjects, and between white man and Zulu. It is about Zulu society, and about what happened when people of the Victorian age were tested to extremes.

Battlefield Tours

The Battlefield Tours have evolved out of the unique historical re-telling developed by the late David Rattray at Fugitives Drift , his protégé Rob Gerrard, guide at Isandlwana Lodge , Rob Caskie and a small group of other inspired guides who lead tours out of these lodges. Nothing can prepare you for the impact of standing at Rorke’s Drift at sunset and listening to one of these great raconteur-historians re-tell the events of that heroic night, when a force of around a hundred British soldiers warded off an attack by 4000 Zulu warriors.

See these sample itineraries that include Battlefield Tours:

KwaZulu Natal self-drive tour KwaZulu Natal deluxe self-drive holiday

Contact us, if you'd like to talk one-to-one about holidays in KwaZulu Natal and South Africa in general.

Shelley Phillips

Travel Specialist

Explore South-Africa

South-africa combinations.

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Battlefields

The battles fought in the rolling hills and valleys of northern KwaZulu-Natal some 120 years ago changed the course of South African history, and still today, the area now known as the ”Battlefields” seems to echo with the heroic and often tragic deeds of the past. The sites of famous skirmishes that rocked the British, weakened the Boers and broke the mighty Zulu nation continue to draw visitors.

A good place to start and to give some context to your visit to this fascinating and beautiful region of KZN would be to take a guided tour . Other options are to self-drive to each site with a good guidebook and just enjoy the beautiful and often haunting views, or for a wonderfully authentic experience, you can tour some places on horseback . Engaging the services of a qualified tourist guide will bring these sites to life. A great many forts established by the British during the South African wars have disappeared, while others, such as Fort Durnford near Estcourt, are now most interesting and somewhat quirky museums .

Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift are two of the most famous battlefields in the country, and also perhaps in British history, perhaps because it was here that, in a furious two-hour battle, Zulu forces armed primarily with traditional spears and shields thrashed the mighty British Colonial Empire forces, one of the few times they were ever routed by an indigenous army. Eleven Victoria Crosses were awarded to those who defended Rorke’s Drift.

Another interesting battlefield site is Spioenkop , where three men who would play an important role in world affairs were present. Winston Churchill was there as a war correspondent, Mahatma Gandhi was present as a stretcher bearer, and Louis Botha became the first prime minister of the Union of South Africa. Visits to Elandslaagte , the Blood River Monument and Talana Museum near Dundee are also worthwhile.

On an annual basis, numerous re-enactments of some of the famous battles take place. These are great fun-filled affairs with many local people dressing up in bright red, colonial British soldier or traditional Zulu warrior attire. Food, music and other activities often accompany these events.

Not far from the curious town of Babanango is the highland Ntingwe Tea Estate that sells a high quality tea to the famous London Store , Harrods . A tour of the estate takes one through the mountain top tea plantation, the factory, and to meet some of the pickers.

Just as interesting in this area of KwaZulu-Natal, are the excellent game reserves, such as Weenen , Nambiti Private Game Reserve with its luxury lodges to hire, and the  Spioenkop Nature Reserve all of which have great game viewing and bird watching experiences.

A lovely romantic experience is to take an early morning hot-air balloon flight over the region near Vryheid to enjoy a bird’s eye view of some of the battlefields as well as do some game watching.

FURTHER INFORMATION For complete details on the Battlefields Region including all the sites plotted on Google maps together with details of the Registered Guides that service the region:

Web sites : www.battlefieldsregionguides.co.za and www.battlefieldsroute.co.za (Both websites contain a contact page that will automatically forward your enquiry to all the service providers, ensuring a prompt and extensive response to your enquiry.)

Enquiries : [email protected]

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KZN Day Tours

The great grandson of an enlisted British soldier who saw most of the action and drama of the Anglo/Zulu and Anglo/Boer wars, Don has received accolades from tourists, military enthusiasts, and historians from around the world. Specialising in one party, private groups, Don delivers a knowledgeable and factual analysis of the triumphs and tragedies of these battles, whose effects are still felt to this day. He is able to arrange the whole experience including transport and accommodation, and reviews about his tours can be found on Tripadvisor under DaytoursKZN. Don would be delighted to hear from you and to consult on any aspect of a Battlefield tour which you may be interested in.

Daytours KZN 1081 DURBAN, KwaZulu-Natal

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Please can you give me details of a one day Anglo-Boer war tour starting from Howick. 3 people, on Tuesday 11 June

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Privacy Overview

• Advice on Visiting the Battlefields
• Early Zulu Battles and Historical Sites
• Voortrekker – Zulu Conflict
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