A trip to the Rorke’s Drift Battlefields area, situated on the outer edge of the rocky yet beautiful Zululand, provides guests the opportunity to learn about this tranquil region that was once the site of one of the biggest battles of the Anglo-Zulu war. These days, masses of tourists gather in this area for a peaceful experience in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal.
The Isibindi Eco-Reserve has a variety of habitats ranging from grasslands, valleys and forests. As such, Isibindi provides a sanctuary to an abundance of indigenous game. Morning and evening game drives are available and there are ample opportunities for bird watching. It is also possible to take bush walks or enjoy a peaceful picnic alongside one of the riverbeds and view giraffe, zebra, wildebeest and other fascinating animals in this reserve where Kwazulu-Natal safari travel is offered.
Guided tours of the Anglo-Zulu battlefields are offered at the Isibindi Zulu Lodge. It is advised that those wishing to go on the tours book beforehand so that the necessary arrangements can be made with the chosen guides who give the tours.
The thorough and highly informative accounts of the battles of Rorke’s Drift and Isandlwana present a comprehensive and vivid look into the history of the area. Presented alongside the military narrative, a complete picture of the impact of the Anglo-Zulu campaign on both the Zulu and British nations is formed.
Isibindi provides an extraordinary opportunity to learn about the Zulu culture and traditions as they remain in Zululand today. A Zulu boma dinner begins just as the sun starts to set, when guests are taken down a narrow path through the bush to the hypnotic beat of traditional Zulu drumming. As you come out into a clearing in a historical Zulu umuzi (village), the dancing bodies of Zulu children provide an insightful cultural experience. The traditional dances as well as their role in Zulu history and culture are explained during the captivating displays.
Day trips are available to a Zulu Homestead, giving guests a rare chance to experience the life of a rural Zulu family, which has for the most part remained largely unchanged over the years since the time when King Shaka lead the tenacious Zulu nation.
Visitors can buy ubuhlalu (beadwork), an extremely important part of the Zulu culture. The meanings of the beads that the women wear are explained to visitors, as they are designed with communicative perfection, complex and detailed designs and patterns. From generation to generation, mothers teach their daughters how to make bracelets, headbands, necklaces and embroider their traditional outfits. Not only is the beadwork decorative, it also expresses messages such as reaching the age of marriage, betrothal, pregnancy, post birth, mourning the death of a family member or friend as well as many others.
Accommodation
Located in a private game reserve in the ruggedly beautiful Zululand, Isibindi Zulu Lodge is conveniently close to the historical Anglo-Zulu battlefields of Rorke’s Drift and Isandlwana.
The lodge is an architectural commemoration of the Zulu nation and provides a serene bushveld retreat which also offers a host of activities for guests who wish to indulge in a combination of luxurious accommodation, game viewing, battlefields and Zulu cultural experiences.
The combination of contemporary luxury, cultural experiences, an exclusive safari in South Africa, and remarkable natural scenery amidst the historical battlefields makes Isibindi the perfect peaceful holiday in KwaZula-Natal.
Author Bio:
Exclusive Getaways offer a collection of celebrated South African safari accommodation and travel, including the Isibindi Zulu Lodge near Rorke’s Drift located in the KwaZulu-Natal Province’s Zululand region.
