4.4·Emangidini·11h
Drakensberg Giants Castle Cave Art And Nelson Mandela Capture Site
The tour starts off with a short visit to Pietermaritzburg, the capital of KwaZulu Natal.We then...
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About this activity
This 14-hour guided tour explores two pivotal Anglo-Zulu War battlefields in KwaZulu-Natal: Isandlwana (January 1879), where British forces suffered a catastrophic defeat to a Zulu army 20,000-strong, and Rorke's Drift, where a smaller British garrison held against overwhelming odds just hours later. Walk the actual grounds with expert interpretation of one of Southern Africa's most dramatic military clashes.
This day tour travels to the north of KwaZulu-Natal where to visit famous sites of the battlefields. There you will encounter museums, memorials and fields dedicated to the Anglo Zulu wars.
The first stop is the Isandlwana Battlefield and Museum. In early January 1879, the British Empire invaded Zululand furthering their colonial expansionist agenda of Southern Africa. The local Zulu Kingdom responded with a well-coordinated attack at the Battle of Isandlwana that surprised the British. This historic battle, which was documented as being ruthless and bloody is seen by historians as the start of Anglo-Zulu War. The British Empire experienced a severe defeat at the Battle of Isandlwana losing over 1700 soldiers at the hands of a Zulu army numbering 20 000. The Zulu warriors outnumbered the British troops greatly even though they who had superior weapons in comparison to the spears and leather shields the Zulus used
The tour progresses to the Battle of Rorke's Drift which also occurred on January 22nd 1879 after the Battle of Isandlwana and continued into the following day. The Defence of Rorke's Drift was smaller in numbers than the Battle of Isandlwana with the British numbering at an estimated 150 and the Zulu’s at 3000 – 4000 fighters. The British troops managed to hold off the Zulu warriors and secure a victory.
The last stop is Fugitives Drift and the Queens Colours memorial before we make the journey back to Durban.
Highlights
- ✓Isandlwana Battlefield Museum with preserved battle site and monument
- ✓Rorke's Drift Defence site—the iconic stand by 150 British soldiers against 3,000–4,000 Zulu warriors
- ✓Fugitives Drift and Queens Colours memorial
- ✓Expert battlefield guide contextualising colonial history and Zulu military strategy
- ✓Full-day immersion in 1879 Anglo-Zulu War narrative across multiple historic locations
Insider tips
- ★Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring sun protection—much of the tour involves exposure on open battlefield terrain with limited shade.
- ★Book the early morning departure to maximise daylight hours at each site and avoid the hottest afternoon heat.
- ★Guides often share oral histories and Zulu perspectives alongside British records; ask specific questions about tactics and warrior experiences to deepen understanding.
Good to know
- •Full-day tour (14 hours total) includes return transport from Durban area; confirm pickup location and time when booking.
- •Bring water, snacks, and a hat; on-site facilities are basic.
- •Moderate walking required across uneven terrain; not suitable for those with severe mobility restrictions.
- •Tour covers colonial military history from a complex perspective—pre-read about Anglo-Zulu War context for richer engagement.
Who it's for
History and military heritage enthusiastsCultural and educational travellers interested in indigenous perspectives and colonial conflictPhotography groups documenting landscape and heritage sitesVisitors to KwaZulu-Natal seeking day excursions from Durban
Best time to visit
Visit May–September (Southern Hemisphere winter/dry season) for comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and minimal rain. Early morning starts are ideal to beat afternoon heat and crowds at museums.
Frequently asked questions
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