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Much more to do and see

ISANDLWANA HISTORIC RESERVE

ISANDLWANA HISTORIC RESERVE

You may walk through the Isandlwana Historic Reserve where you will see various birds and game such as impala and zebra. You will also see cairns (piles of white stones) which mark mass graves of British soldiers.

It is necessary to have a game scout with you and make sure you wear boots or sturdy walking shoes that support your ankles.

FUGITIVE'S TRAIL WALK

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

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

BIRDING TOURS

This tour takes about four hours. Minimum four people. There are more than 300 species of birds in the region of Isandlwana. In the immediate area of the lodge, there are over 70 species.

Walking tours are available and are led by a knowledgeable guide.

Zululand, though stunningly beautiful, is a 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 AND PHOTOGRAPHIC TOURS:

Length of tour: Average six-seven hours.

Cultural tours to Qhudeni are generally taken two guides and take a full day. The tour departs from Isandlwana Lodge at 10am and returns around 4 pm. 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.

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.

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 comes to roost on the rocks. It is about a 20-minute drive from the lodge.

Prince Imperial Monument

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

Blood River

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

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.

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