Go on a Zululand adventure

Zululand promises majestic green hills and mountains, acres of unspoiled grasslands and forests all steeped in culture and tradition with welcoming Zulu villages. Zululand is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a holiday with a cultural experience and beautiful landscapes.

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So, what is there to do in Zululand? Look at our guide and plan your perfect trip.

1. Culture Trip

Make sure visiting one of the fantastic Zulu cultural villages (also referred to as “living museums”) is part of your itinerary. Be prepared to be welcomed in the Zulu traditional style and experience their hospitality first hand. Places like Shakaland, Dumazulu and Simunye will give you a view of traditional Zulu life and culture. Spend the night in a traditional homestead, eat the traditional food and don't forget to indulge in the traditional Zulu beer - known as Nqombothi. You can also visit a traditional healer and learn more about how plants are used as medicine. Expect an experience like no other as you get a peek into the traditional lifestyle of this group.

2. Go to Battle

It’s hard to believe that Zululand was once ravaged by battle, and some of that land still shows off their battle scars today. It’s hard to believe that such a peaceful place was once the site for some great South African battles between 1806 and 1902. Battles included Zulu warriors who clashed with Boer settlers, then the British military fought the Zulu nation during the Anglo-Zulu War, and the independent Afrikaner movements twice took up arms against the British Empire here, including during the Anglo Boer War. Take the Battlefields Route and see plenty of battlefields, forts, museums, war graves and memorials. Do the tour yourself or join a tour group if you’d like to have a guide.

3. Safari Adventures

While Zululand is known for its cultural heritage, it’s also known for its wildlife and game viewing. Visit one of the game reserves in the area and catch a glimpse of antelopes, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes and much more. World class reserves you can visit include Ithala, Thula Thula, Thanda and the Zululand Rhino Reserve among others. The area also boasts amazing bird viewing with the Zululand Birding Route. The route boasts 605 different bird species including the Green Barbet, Pel’s Fishing Owl, Pink-Throated Twinspot, Neergard’s Sunbird and the Palmnut Vulture. Visit www.zululandbirdingroute.co.za for more information.

4. Take a Hike

The beauty of the Zululand region is begging for visitors pack their gear and take a hike through some of the most beautiful forests you’ll ever see. Must-see hiking spots include Majuba or Spioenkop mountains, Nkandla Forest, Ntumeni Nature Reserve and the Ntendeka Wilderness Area in the Ngome Forest.

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