Price: R6900 pp sharing DBB incl. Single supplement of R1200
ISANDLWANA BATTLEFIELDS – RORKE’S DRIFT – BLOODRIVER
DURATION 2 DAYS, 1 NIGHT
The region boasts the largest concentration of battlefields in South Africa, drawing visitors from all over the world. It is here that military engagements that were to shape the course of South Africa and world history, and rock the pedestal of the British Empire raged over thorny hills and sweeping grasslands.
The first war involved the continuing clash between the Voortrekkers and the Zulu nation during the period 1836-1852.Thereafter the Zulu nation was in conflict with British forces in the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879. The first battle of the war was at Isandlwana, when the 1500 strong British invading force was routed by Zulu impis. On the same day, the Zulus attacked Rorke’s Drift, a small Swedish mission station used by the British army as a magazine and hospital. It was here that for 12 hours the “Heroic Hundred” repelled a force of 4000 Zulus, losing 17 men and winning 11 Victoria Crosses – the most ever awarded for a single military engagement. The war was typical of the British army’s attitude in the Victorian era, in that it was a campaign waged not only against a courageous and forceful enemy, but also against distance and natural obstacles. Despite considerable experience in the field, the British generals underestimated the fighting ability of the Zulus, resulting in a series of disasters.
PIETERMARITZBURG – TALANA MUSEUM DUNDEE – BLOODRIVER BATTLEFIELDS
Our first stop is in Pietermaritzburg. We will visit Mahatma Gandhi Square and take a short walk to the City Hall. The museum comprises 16 buildings and each one has a different theme with exhibits on glass, coal mining, military history, clothing and beads.
The Battle of Blood River is the name given for the battle fought between 470 Voortrekkers led by Andries Pretorius, and an estimated 10,000–15,000 Zulu attacker on the bank of the Ncome River on 16 December 1838.
ISANDLWANA- RORKE’S DRIFT
This tour takes you into the Northern part of KwaZulu Natal where you will visit the famous battle sites of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. A qualified and knowledgeable tour guide will impart fascinating details about the Zulu, Anglo and Boer Wars which took place at these sites.
Please note: A professional historian tour guide can be arranged in an additional cost.