Battlefields
The Battlefields region of KwaZulu-Natal has more recorded battlefields located here than anywhere else in Africa. The region offers visitors the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of famous military strategists like Shaka, Winston Churchill and General Louis Botha, all of whom played an integral part in shaping the history of KwaZulu-Natal.
People from around the world are drawn to explore the battle sites, historic towns, national monuments, memorial sites and museums, in the company of accredited guides. These knowledgeable raconteurs bring history to life with captivating narratives about the Battles of Isandlwana, Rorke’s Drift, Spioenkop and Blood River, to name a few. One can almost hear the winds sigh and whisper the secrets and sorrows of great battles fought here in days gone by.
The Talana Museum near Dundee, with its fine collection of war artefacts, is well worth a visit, as is the Carnegie Art Gallery where contemporary South African art works can be viewed, and local craftwork and the unique Isiphethu fabric art is available. Visitors to the Talana Creative Cluster are able to interact with crafters and experience weaving, beading, pottery and sewing that reflects African traditions and heritage.
At the Kwakunje Cultural Village, visitors are invited to experience Zulu cultural life as it was, and how it is changing. Hear the tales, explore the culture and enjoy traditional meals, as you absorb the sounds and sights of life under the African sun.
Adventure activities in the area include white-water rafting, 4×4 trails, hang-gliding, horse riding and mountain biking. More relaxed past times include the birding routes, viewing the Big 5 in world-class game reserves, wallowing in warm mineral fountains or fly fishing in any of the numerous dams around the area. Accommodation ranges from upmarket lodges to Zulu cultural villages, country guesthouses and mountain chalets, to farm and cottage B&Bs.
For more info please visit our website at www.battlefields.kzn.org.za
