Isandlwana Lodge

“A striking and remarkable mount is Isandlwana; not another hill around is there in the least like it.” Bertrand Mitford – Traveller and Author.

Isandlwana Lodge offers twelve luxury rooms all en-suite and tastefully decorated in a mixture of traditional and modern styles. The Lodge is carved into the iNyoni rock formation on top of which the Zulu commander stood during the battle of Isandlwana on 22 January 1879. Enjoy unparalleled views from the crisp early light of a sparkling Zulu dawn to the splendour of the African sunset.

Unwind in our pool built among the rocks after a day on the battlefields. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the library where you can hone up on your history. Make new friends in the pleasant surroundings of our lounge and allow our specialist chef to provide you with some of the best food in KwaZulu-Natal. Or just relax on your private balcony.

All rooms face the historic and scenically beautiful Isandlwana plain with a view of the mountain. Isandlwana Lodge is the ideal location for executive conferences or team-building getaways, where groups can benefit from our unique concepts, developed and built around the battles by our historian, Rob Gerrard, author and Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society.

ISANDLWANA HISTORIC RESERVE

Minimum: 2 People

You may walk through the Isandlwana Historic Reserve where you will see various birds and game such as Impala and Zebra. In certain parts, you may find cairns (piles of white stones) which mark mass graves of British soldiers who fought and died at Isandlwana. It is necessary to have a game scout with you and you would be well served to wear boots or sturdy walking shoes that offer support for your ankles.

FUGITIVE’S TRAIL WALK

Minimum: 2 People

This walk is approximately 3 hours and should be taken only by the physically fit. It is a must for those really interested in the Battle of Isandlwana.

At times, in the summer months, one will have to swim the Buffalo River. Other times, it is possible to skip across on the rocks.

BIRDING TOURS

Length of Tour: Average 4 Hours
Minimum 4 People

There are over 300 species of birds which may be seen in the region of Isandlwana during the year. In the immediate area of the Lodge, there are over 70 species.

Walking tours are available and led by a knowledgeable guide.

Zululand, though stunningly beautiful, is rugged country and walking tours should only be undertaken by those who are fit and well shod. A good pair of binoculars and a South African bird book such as Newman’s or Roberts are essential.

CULTURAL & PHOTOGRAPHIC TOURS:

Length of Tour: Average 6-7 Hours

Our cultural tours to Qhudeni are generally taken by a European guide, accompanied by a Zulu and take a full day. The tour departs from the Lodge at 10:00 A.M. and returns around 4 p.m. This tour goes into one of the most remote and scenic parts of Zululand.

A region of large mountains, huge ravines, rivers and natural forests. Qhudeni Mountain stands 6000 feet above sea level. Only recently have dirt roads been blazed into this region to allow taxis and other off-road automobiles access. One can encounter Zulu women and children who have had little or no contact with Europeans.

One always has to decide what to do and where to go as the tour progresses due to the condition of the dirt roads. For those keen on photography, this tour is an opportunity of a lifetime for capturing some spectacular scenery on film. The cultural events offered at Isandlwana village may be seen at Qhudeni, but in more natural environments due to the remoteness of the area.

DAY TRIPS IN ZULULAND

There are a number of trips one can take on one’s own which are within easy driving distance of Isandlwana Lodge.

Ask management for directions and if possible, let them know your plans for the day. If you have a cell phone, please give the number to the manager. You will, in turn, be given contact details, including a cell phone for the Lodge. This is generally a safe area, but it is nice to have communication or some idea the direction in which you are going.

Mangeni Falls

This is the spot where Chelmsford was having tea when the Zulus attacked the camp at Isandlwana. During the winter months there is very little water, but the gorge is beautiful. The surrounding area offers some of the most magnificent scenery in Zululand. In late afternoon, the Cape Bald Ibis come to roost on the rocks. It is about a twenty minute drive from the Lodge.

During the summer, remember to use Tabbard spray to ward off ticks
and plenty of sunscreen all year long.

Prince Imperial Monument

Journey to the spot where the Prince Imperial was killed during the Anglo Zulu War. The Prince was the last of the Bonaparte line and the only child of Empress Eugenie who was broken-hearted at the death of her son.

A Zulu family nearby maintains the area on behalf of Amafa KwaZulu Natal and they will be sure you sign the visitors’s book. One is expected to make a small donation +/- R10.00 to the family.

Blood River

The laager of bronze wagons that formed the fortress for Boers in the battle with the Zulus on 16 December 1838 is worth a visit to the site.

There is a Voortrekker Museum and a Zulu Museum to explore.

Talana Museum

Known as the finest museum in KwaZulu Natal, Talana is located on the outskirts of Dundee at the site of the first battle of the Second Anglo Boer War.

There are two museums, one military and the other glass. There is an impressive collection of Zulu artifacts, as well and the museum also brings focus to coal mining in the area which is part of Dundee’s rich history.

Next door to the Museum is a cottage where nice lunches are served. Around the property are displays of various kinds including tools and machinery that were used in the era, music and a permanent art exhibit of works by residents in the area, which is the newest addition.