isandlwana battlefield tours

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The Zulu War

The washing of the spears.

Experience Tours General History Tours Military History and Battlefield Tours

1st - 14th March 2025 (14 Days)

Expert Historian : Ian Knight

Tour price: £5,995

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Your Holiday Essentials

1st - 14th March 2025 (14 Days)

Best available hotels, meals as indicated,

drinks with lunch, all entrance fees,

tour manager and expert historian

throughout, all internal travel, optional

travel from UK.

Activity Level : 2/3

Standard price: £5,245

Incl. travel from UK: £5,995 Room sole occupancy supplement: £525 Non-refundable deposit: £1,100

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Tour Introduction

This fascinating study of the Anglo-Zulu War takes us to ground that has hardly changed since the memorable events of the period, all set amongst spectacular scenery still populated by Zulu tribes and an abundance of wildlife. As well as visiting battle sites such as Isandlwana, Rorke’s Drift and others that have gone down in British military folklore, we will be discussing the men, armies and tactics of both sides, their problems, successes and failures.

But this is much more than ‘just’ a battlefield tour: we will be staying in comfortable lodges and hotels, and will have ample opportunity to observe the local people and customs as well as participating in a game drive featuring many of Africa’s best loved animals such as the elephant, rhino, giraffe, zebra, leopard and antelope.

Please note: there is a maximum of 12 rooms available on this tour due to the limited capacity of some accommodation.

First annexed by Britain in the Napoleonic Wars, the Cape of Good Hope was a vital position on the route to the Far East, but South Africa never rivalled India in importance within the Empire. And yet the battles between Queen Victoria's red-coated battalions and the lightly armed Zulu forces have remained vibrant in the memory of both adversaries as few other imperial events have done.

In 1879, with Britain at the height of her imperial power, Lord Chelmsford's three columns marched into Zululand on a punitive expedition to teach the Zulu King Cetshwayo a lesson. Two equally professional armies with totally different fighting traditions and weapons met and fought with startling results. At Isandlwana the Zulus inflicted the most humiliating defeat of the Victorian era on the over-confident British battalions. Yet hours later the small number of determined and well-led defenders at Rorke's Drift drove off repeated Zulu attacks and captured the public’s admiration. In the end the rifle inevitably triumphed over the spear. It is a story of arrogance and determination, traditions and innovations, but above all amazing individual bravery on both sides. The old Zulu nation was destroyed – but at the cost of a significant dent to British military prestige.

• Drive up to the site of the old mission station at Eshowe
• Visit King Cetshwayo's grave
• Visit the battlefield and royal homestead at Ondini
• 2 night stay at the Hluhluwe Game Reserve
• Walk up the slopes of Hlobane mountain
• The battlefield of Khambula
• Two days spent hearing the full story of the battle of Isandlwana
• A full day at Rorke's Drift
• Wild African scenery; wildlife game drive
• Superb game lodge and hotel accommodation
• Visit Fort Pearson
• The Buffalo River crossing

What's Included

• Best available accommodation
• Return flights from London (optional)
• Internal flight(s)
• Expert historian throughout providing a daily variety of talks, presentations and Q&A
• Dedicated Tour Manager
• Dinner parties hosted by your expert historian and tour manager
• The company of like-minded travelers
• Helpful and friendly travel advice
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary
• Two drinks i,e wine or beer at each dinner and a welcome drink on first evening
• Entrance fees for sites included in itinerary
• Tour information booklet
• Modern, comfortable, air-conditioned coach

"March slowly, attack at dawn and eat up the red soldiers"

King Cetshwayo’s orders

Day 0: Depart Overnight flight from London Heathrow to Johannesburg.

Day 1: Durban Either arrive from London or join the tour in the morning at the Arrivals Hall of Johannesburg International Airport and transfer to our internal flight to Durban. This day is a light introduction to the war in the coastal districts - we visit the site of Fort Pearson, a large earthwork built by the British on a bluff to command the crossing over the Tugela River. This was the anchor for British operations in the area in 1879, but also offers a stunning view across countryside fought over in two earlier Zulu battles. Below Fort Pearson is the grove of trees where once the 'Ultimatum Tree' stood - the tree under which British representatives presented an ultimatum to the Zulus which resulted in the invasion. Overnight in Prince’s Grant on the Indian Ocean Coast, with time for a brief reflection on the arrival of the first British adventurers to arrive in the area in 1824. (L,D)

Day 2: The Battlefields of Gingindlovu and Nyezane Today we will look at the operations of Col. Pearson's Right Flank (coastal column). We will follow the line of his advance towards the old mission station at Eshowe, stopping to explore the two battles which framed his campaign (Gingindlovu and Nyezane). We will look at the remains of the Eshowe mission, where Pearson was cut off for three months in 1879 - and visit the poignant cemetery nearby. Lunch at Eshowe and a visit to Fort Nongqayi historical museum and complex. Check-in to our lodge in Eshowe for two nights. (B,L,D)

Day 3: Cetshwayo We drive deep into some of the more remote parts of Zulu country to visit the grave of King Cetshwayo (whom the British invasion deposed), and for an overview of the last major Zulu uprising, the 1906 Rebellion, much of which occurred in the vicinity of the grave. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Ulundi, the final battle of the Zulu War We leave the Eshowe area and head towards Ulundi and the old Zulu heartland. Here we explore the museum and partially recreated royal homestead of King Cetshwayo at oNdini, and visit the Ulundi battlefield, site of the final battle of the war. Picnic lunch before moving on to Hluhluwe Game Reserve, our base for the next two nights. (B,L,D)

Day 5: Hluhluwe Game Drive A relaxing and yet exciting day as we join Hluhluwe Park Game Rangers in open game drive safari vehicles to go in search of the ‘big five’: lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and buffalo. And we might even catch a glimpse of a cheetah and wild dogs. (B,L,D)

Day 6: Hlobane Mountain If you are fit enough and the weather permits we will walk up the slopes of Hlobane mountain (n.b. this is potentially a stiff walk and the tracks are deteriorating) to hear how a British mounted foray was driven off with heavy losses. We will visit the graves of Captain Campbell and Civilian Interpreter Lloyd, two of Wood's aides who were killed in the battle, and whose remains lie high up on the hillside, Check-in to our lodge in Vryheid for two nights. (B,L,D)

Day 7: Ntombe Spruit We drive out to the little-known battlefield of Ntombe where, in March 1879, a convoy of the 80th Regiment was attacked and over-run. The state of the river permitting, we wade across the stream and explore both sides. (B,L,D)

Day 8: Khambula, Blood River & Prince Imperial This morning we explore the battlefield of Khambula, the turning point of the war. Here, the same Zulu regiments who had triumphed earlier in the war at Isandlwana, and who were encouraged by the Zulu success at Hlobane the day before, attacked Col. Wood's fortified camp at Khambula. Thence to the Voortrekker Blood River battlefield - where the Boers defeated the Zulus in 1838, and which boasts a truly spectacular monument - to the lonely memorial which commemorates the spot where Prince Louis Napoleon, the Prince Imperial of France - the last legitimate heir to to the Bonaparte throne - was killed in a skirmish. Check-in to Isandlwana Lodge for four nights. (B,L,D)

Day 9: Battle of Isandlwana The first of two days exploring the dramatic Isandlwana campaign in detail. We will drive out to the Ngwebeni valley, where the Zulu army bivouacked before the battle, and where they were discovered by a British patrol. We will then consider the battle from the commanding knoll where the Zulu generals directed their forces. From there we will go to the battlefield itself. We will explore the monuments and hear the story of the fighting from the British perspective - we will then walk out to the British firing lines, and down to the donga defended by Col. Durnford. (B,L,D)

Day 10: Battle of Isandlwana This morning those fit and willing will walk as much of the 'fugitives' trail' as possible, exploring the many British graves lying behind Isandlwana, on the road to Rorke's Drift (or alternatively spend the morning at leisure at the lodge). After lunch we will drive round to the Natal side of the river to visit the graves of Lts. Melvill and Coghill, who were killed attempting to save the Queen's Colour of the 24th Regiment. We will also drive out to the hills where Lord Chelmsford spent the day of the battle, away from the camp, and hear the story of his return. (B,L,D)

Day 11: Rorke’s Drift A full day at the famous battlefield of Rorke's Drift - and there is much to see! We begin down at the Mzinyathi (Buffalo) River crossing, where the British invasion on this front began, and then visit the mission station for Ian's climactic talk of the tour, the story of the battle. No less than 11 Victoria Crosses were won in the action, and it was the subject of the famous 1964 film, 'Zulu' - there will be plenty of opportunity to discuss the myth and realities of the story! After lunch there will be time to explore the on-site museum, and to wander the battlefield at leisure. (B,L,D)

Day 12: Johannesburg Our last day - we return by coach to Johannesburg with a picnic lunch en-route. Those making their travel arrangements will be dropped off at Johannesburg airport. Overnight return flight to London. (B,L)

Day 13: Home Early morning arrival at London Heathrow.

Recommended Reading List

• Companion to the Anglo-Zulu War
• The Anatomy of the Zulu Army
• The Illustrated Guide to the Anglo-Zulu War
• The Zulu War 1879
• Zulu Rising

Ian Knight is a writer and historian who is internationally regarded as a leading authority on the nineteenth-century history of the Zulu kingdom, and in particular the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879. He has a degree in Afro-Caribbean Studies from the University of Kent and has been researching and writing for more than thirty years. He has published over forty books and monographs, the majority of them on Zulu history and the rest on other nineteenth-century British colonial campaigns.

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Flagship Tours

The Anglo – Zulu War of 1879

In 1879, the British invaded Zululand. The central of the three major invading columns forded the Buffalo River at Rorke’s Drift. Within days Lord Chelmsford’s invasion was in jeopardy. Part of his central column had been almost annihilated at Isandlwana, in a battle rated as one of the greatest military disasters in British colonial history. A few survivors struggled back into Natal, crossing the mighty Buffalo River at the Fugitives’ Drift. Lieutenants Melvill and Coghill died in a gallant attempt to save the Queen’s colours of their regiment, earning the first posthumous Victoria Crosses in history. A great wing of the Zulu army went on to attack the British garrison at Rorke’s Drift, and these warriors were beaten off in a battle that lasted all night; an action that saw the awarding of 11 VCs and 5 DCMs.

Fugitives’ Drift Lodge and Guest House is renowned for its flagship battlefield tours to Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift, which are conducted daily. These thought provoking and often emotionally charged tours leave our guests with a more profound appreciation of modern-day South Africa. Long family associations with the area and its people allow Fugitives’ Drift to offer unique Zulu perspectives on these remarkable battles.

The Battle of Isandlwana | 22 nd January 1879

The Battle of Isandlwana, during the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879, has been the subject of conjecture and controversy for 140 years. It is arguably the greatest defeat that the British Empire was ever to suffer in her entire colonial history; in two short hours a modern British army was destroyed. But, was this truly a British defeat? Is it explained away by incompetence, failings in supply, or overconfidence? Or, was it due to the astounding leadership and motivation of the Zulu forces? Calling on the old Zulu stories of the battle to recreate the events of the day, our guides will explain how this battle was won, giving insight to the brave warriors and Zulu chieftains who fought and died in defence of their King and country.

The tour to Isandlwana leaves from Fugitives’ Drift Lodge at 7:30am, and is typically back by 1:00pm. Our guests embark on the morning excursion in a closed vehicle, listening to a narrative recorded by the late David Rattray from The Day of the Dead Moon. This narrative gives the background to the conflict and weaves together some of the early history of South Africa in a fantastic story, full of human courage, endeavor and folly. The drive is about 35km. Once out of the Fugitives’ Drift reserve, the track meanders to the Buffalo River, crossing at Rorke’s Drift. The route then follows the British line of advance. There are a couple of stops made en route to the Isandlwana battlefield; these are at the most poignant parts of the journey, allowing the guide to begin to weave the stories together and give our guests an appreciation of how the invasion got started. The first view of the battlefield is from the Nqutu Escarpment, the high ground from which the Zulus attacked the British camp. The next stop is at the Isandlwana museum, after which guests are taken onto the battlefield itself, and told the story at the foot of the Isandlwana Mountain. On this natural stage, our guides put into vivid detail the desperate struggle of the morning of 22 nd January 1879. After the tour, our guests are encouraged to roam the battlefield and explore this most unspoiled of places. The eerie silence between the mass graves and the lion like crag of the mountain brooding; it is a truly is a magnificent place.

The Battle of Rorke’s Drift | 22nd January 1879

R 968 per person for the Rorke’s Drift Tour R 968 per person for the Isandlwana Tour R 1936 per person for both the Rorke’s Drift and Isandlwana tours. This includes both tours, transport, entrance fees and refreshments.

OTHER TOURS

Children’s Policy

Due to the length and content of the tours, we do not normally allow children under the age of 12 years to go on these tours. It will be at the lecturer’s discretion as to whether we can accommodate children younger than 12 on the tours or not. We do offer child-minding facilities at a nominal fee whilst parents are out on tour and in the evening while parents are at dinner. For the keen junior historians our Battlefield Kids ‘Tour’ program is an excellent option.

Itineraries

We recommend a three night stay, as this allows you to do the two flagship tours in the correct historical order, without doing them on the same day.

On a 1 night stay, we recommend that you arrive before 1pm in order to join the afternoon tour to Rorke’s Drift. You would then do the Isandlwana tour the following morning and depart either after lunch or directly after the tour.

1 Night Itinerary

On a 2 night stay, you may choose whether to join the tour to Rorke’s Drift on the afternoon of your arrival or to wait until the following afternoon and undertake the tours in the correct historical order.

2 Night Itinerary

On a 3 night stay, you may split the tours and go to Isandlwana on the morning after your arrival and Rorke’s Drift on your second afternoon, thereby having the time to relax and enjoy other activities.

3 Night Itinerary

A four-night stay is perfectly suited to those who would like to see a little more than Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift, or for those who are keen to spend a day relaxing and enjoying everything the lodge and guest house have to offer.

4 Night Itinerary

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• 10.00am - 5.30pm
• Chelsea, London

Virtual Battlefield Tour: Isandlwana

19 January 2022

£10.00 Members: £8.00

Great Battles

The Battle of Isandlwana, 22 January 1879

See the battlefield of Isandlwana like never before in this special virtual tour led by Patrick Mercer and Dan Hill.

Isandlwana, the first battle of the Zulu War, saw more British soldiers lost than on any other single day between Waterloo and the First World War.

The British defeat on 22 January 1879 came as a shock to the public back home, who had grown accustomed to news of military success. Yet, it was swiftly followed by a famous victory at Rorke’s Drift, where a small British garrison managed to hold out against a huge Zulu force.

This virtual tour, led by Patrick Mercer and Dan Hill, will use a blend of the latest technology and original artefacts to take you on the ground and explore this remote battlefield like never before.

Research curators will introduce items from the National Army Museum’s world-class collection to illustrate the story and bring the events of the battle to life.

Terms and conditions of ticket sales

Event format

This event will be delivered online in partnership with Battle Guide Virtual Tours .

The livestream will begin 15 minutes ahead of the advertised start time. The tour will then last for approximately 75 minutes, followed by 15 minutes for questions.

A link will be sent to all ticket holders 72 hours before the event begins.

Explore further

In 1879, the British fought a war against the Zulu kingdom. The Zulus resisted bravely and were only defeated after a series of particularly bloody battles that have gone down in the annals of colonial warfare.

Restoring Isandlwana

'The Battle of Isandlwana' is one of our most popular artworks. But before going on display again, the iconic painting needed some TLC: tender loving conservation!

Online events on demand

Catch up on any of the events you might have missed from our regular series of online talks, conversations and debates.

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"First time @NAM_London today. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Thought the presentation & interpretation made the subject accessible..."

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Isandlwana Battlefields Tour

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About Isandlwana Battlefields Tour

Hear in gripping detail the background to the Anglo-Zulu War as you are driven to Isandlwana in the early morning. Sit on the battlefield, mesmerised by the remarkable story of this fantastic Zulu victory. There is often some walking involved in the tour. However, arrangements are often and easily made to accomodate guests who are less mobile - please do let us know if this is the case.

Fugitives' Drift has become world-renowned for its battlefield tours to all the Zulu War battle sites in the region, particularly the battles of Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift. Flagship tours to Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift are led by registered tour guides Rob Caskie, Joseph Ndima and George Irwin, who are superb storytellers and make the history of that day come alive. Our long family associations with the area and its people allow us to offer you some unique Zulu perspectives.

Learn of the bravery and mobility of the Zulu army that defeated the British Army at the Battle of Isandlwana and listen at sunset to the famous story of Rorke's Drift, where 139 British soldiers were attacked by 4000 Zulu warriors; a British victory which saw the award of more Victoria Crosses than in any other battle in history.

Need to Know

Where Tours start at Fugitives' Drift Lodge in Rorke's Drift, Dundee Area, KwaZulu Natal

When Booking is essentail. Breakfast is at 7:00 and the tour departs from the Fugitives' Drift Lodge at 7:30 sharp, returning for lunch at approximately 13:00.

How much Prices on request.

Telephone +27 (0)34 271-8051

Overnight Stay nearby in Rorkes Drift , in KwaZulu Natal

Please note, business details can change. While we endeavour to ensure all information provided by the service provider is correct at the time of publication, we do not assume any liability caused by errors or changes, such as price, cost, time, and location. Please check with the provider that the activity/business is still offered as described, before making any travel plans.

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* Distances shown are "as the crow flies", not driving distances. Please confirm with the establishment should driving distance be a factor in your decision.

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• Tours & Activities

Full-Day Battle of Isandlwana Battlefields Tour from Durban

• Professional guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Entry/Admission - Rorke's Drift
• Entry/Admission - Isandlwana Battlefield
• Food and drinks
• Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
• You are looking for Battlefield Site Tour.
• You are happy to travel a 2.5hr distance to battlefield site.
• You want to experience and learn about the Battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal.
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Infant seats available
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travelers can participate
• German and Polish languages can be requested (on request)
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 99 travelers

The tour began with the on time arrival of Terry, my guide. Proceeding on the drive to the Battlefields, which took a couple of hours, a very informative tape was played that explained the history of the Zulu Wars and the events that surrounded the Isandlawana Battlefields. Terry provided additional information as we drove to the various sites. We stopped at several locations that provided fantastic views of the whole area, We, also, visited various museums and monuments along the way. Terry gave excellent briefings at each stop. We rested at a lovely hotel for an excellent lunch. The veranda of the hotel overlooked the river crossing at Rourke's Drift and gave a panoramic view of the valley. This was a truly beautiful country! Visiting the actual battlefield of Rourke's Drift, Terry gave an excellent narration as we visited the museum and the various monuments. This was the culmination of our journey to Rourke's Drift. This was an outstanding tour that conveyed the history of the Zulu War, the heroic stand at Rourke's Drift, and provided some of the most beautiful scenery in all of South Africa. I highly recommend this tour with THIS tour company!

Booked this tour for my Welsh husband, who'd always wanted to visit....he absolutely loved it! Thammi and Bella, our guides were lovely and went out of their way to ensure he had a very memorable trip. A long drive there and back, but through the most beautiful contryside....and lunch at a very picturesque lodge overlooking the Buffalo River. Would recommend to anyone who has even a slight interest in zulu /British war and/or zulu history. Well done 1st zulu safaris who ran this trip for Viator

• Information & Tips

[email protected]

+27 78 643 8827, iconic tours and activities.

Isandlwana Lodge guests enjoy close proximity to the iconic Isandlwana battlefield and other renowned Kwa-Zulu landmarks.

The quintessential explorer’s destination

Scattered throughout the undulating valleys and golden hills of Kwa-Zulu Natal, and nestled between sleepy rural villages and towns, South Africa’s most historic battlefields, monuments and dramatic scenery await. Book a stay at Isandlwana, and begin your journey today.

Battlefield Tours

Following the footsteps of the Anglo-Zulu War

Take a tour into the past, from the tranquil comfort of Isandlwana Lodge. Allow our expert tour guides to share their knowledge and passion with you, as you revisit the country’s famous Anglo-Zulu war sites, memorials and dedicated museums. Our full-day tours include a mouthwatering on-the-go picnic.

Battle of Isandlwana – Half-day Tour

A short drive from the lodge, the Isandlwana battlefield pays tribute to the 1879 clash of the British regiment and Zulu impi. Serving as a burial site for the fallen and a memorial of historic events, the Isandlwana battlefield tour offers an unbiased, respectful glimpse into the first major battle that marked the beginning of the Anglo-Zulu war.

Defence of Rorke’s Drift Tour – Half-day Tour

In the aftermath of Isandlwana, a Zulu impi marched on to engage in further battle at Rorke’s Drift. A guided half-day tour takes guests on a short, scenic drive to the exact location where an estimated 150 British soldiers successfully defended the Rorke’s Drift garrison against more than 3,500 Zulu warriors.

From Isandlwana to Fugitive’s Drift – Full-day Tour

Our full-day tour takes intrepid travellers on a roaming tour of the region, offering a guided experience of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift battlefields. The tour culminates at the picturesque Fugitive’s Drift, where Lieutenants Melvill and Coghill lost their lives trying to save the Queen’s Colour.

Battle of Blood River – Full-day Tour

Prior to the Anglo-Zulu conflicts, Voortrekkers moving inland confronted native people as they sought land on which to settle. One such confrontation reached a crescendo at the Ncome River, Kwa-Zulu Natal, when Zulu King Dingane’s forces were defeated by the pioneering Boers in 1838. This guided tour offers a glimpse into the treacherous events leading up to the Battle of Blood River.

Battle at Ulundi – Full-day Tour

The tour of the Ulundi battlefield guides explorers through the final clash between the British and Zulu forces. Here, an army of 17,000 British troops defeated an estimated 24,000 Zulu warriors, taking Zulu King Cetshwayo prisoner and changing the framework of the Zulu Kingdom forever.

Cultural Tours

Live a day in the life of rural kwa-zulu natal.

From the Isandlwana battlefields to present-day life in the quiet Zululand countryside, enjoy our cultural tours led by local guides.

Isandlwana Village Walk

Allow our guides to introduce you to the friendly residents of the Isandlwana village. Tailored to your personal interests, a village walk may include a visit to a family home, a tour of school and village facilities, a visit to the local sangoma (diviner), or access to the local church or museum.

Photographic Tours

Our full-day photographic tour is led by a qualified guide into the most scenic parts of Zululand, where guests may take in and capture dramatic landscapes – rugged mountains, unforgiving ravines, rivers and natural forests.

Valley of the Kings

Take a full-day excursion to eMakhosini Opathe Heritage Park, or Valley of the Kings, and enjoy a wilderness rehabilitated to its former glory, with wild game and herds of Nguni cattle. Here, guests may also explore the restored home of Zulu kings, where the icon, Shaka, spent much of his youth, and where Dingane massacred Voortrekker leader, Piet Retief, in 1838.

The Fugitive’s Trail Walk

Lace up your hiking boots and walk in the footsteps taken by survivors of the Battle of Isandlwana to the Natal border. This winding 8km trail across uneven terrain is rewarding for nature lovers, history enthusiasts and avid birders, and concludes with a customary crossing of the Buffalo River. Transport back to Isandlwana Lodge is provided.

+27 82 415 3679

Battle of Isandlwana and Rorkes Drift Full Day Tour from Durban

• Rorke's Drift Battlefield
• Rorke's Drift Museum
• Isandlwana Battlefield
• Isandlwana Museum
• Entry/Admission - Isandlwana Battlefield
• Travelers can send us their pick up locations
• King Shaka Intl Airport, Durban South Africa
• Durban Port, South Beach, Durban, 4001, South Africa
• Durban, South Africa
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Rorke's Drift Stop: 6 hours Thereafter we proceed to Rorke's Drift where again the local guide will give a full naration of this famous battle. Also a walk at the exact space of the battlefield, a visit to the graves and a visit to Rorke's Drift Museum. The Battle of Rorke’s Drift, fought immediately after the Battle of Isandlwana, is famous throughout the English-speaking world. Here, at a small mission station, 139 British soldiers were attacked by 4000 Zulu warriors. The result was a British victory which saw the award of more Victoria Crosses than in any other battle in history. The story of Rorke’s Drift is an incredibly tragic story; one of human courage and sacrifice. The unspeakable suffering endured by the warriors and soldiers on such a tiny area is confounding. Read more
• You'll return to the starting point

• Explorer52297463506 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles What an amazing time on the Sani Pass 4 x 4 Tour and Lesotho Full Day Tour From Durban offered by African saf Tours. What an amazing time on the Sani Pass 4 x 4 Tour and Lesotho Full Day Tour From Durban offered by African saf Tours. We enjoyed the drive through the mountains getting to Underberg. Once we got there we jumped into the 4x4. Amazing experience. the guide, Jonathan, was excellent. Read more Written April 3, 2024
• GrandTour63436771577 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles This was a very enjoyable Full-Day Safari to Tala Game Reserve, Phezulu Safari Park and Natal from Durban This was a very enjoyable Full-Day Safari to Tala Game Reserve, Phezulu Safari Park and Natal from Durban. Tala game reserve had so many animals - kudus, rhino, zebra, antelope and many more. the african dance in Phezulu was good. we recommend this tour Read more Written March 20, 2024
• Inspire59579040076 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles This a great tour of Sani Pass with wonderful scenery This a great tour of Sani Pass with wonderful scenery. We enjoyed the Sani Pass 4 x 4 Tour and Lesotho Full Day Tour From Durban. Our guide was really good too. Read more Written January 16, 2024
• Companion04580592294 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A great time - Full-Day Safari to Tala Game Reserve, Phezulu Safari Park and Natal from Durban. A great time - Full-Day Safari to Tala Game Reserve, Phezulu Safari Park and Natal from Durban. Lots to see and do. In touch with nature, Read more Written January 14, 2024
• Travel60300297447 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles We had a great time in Isimangaliso Wetlands, plus Hippo & Croc Boat Cruise Full Day Tour from Durban by African Saf Tou We had a great time in Isimangaliso Wetlands, plus Hippo & Croc Boat Cruise Full Day Tour from Durban by African Saf Tours. We first did a 2 hour boat cruise. Fantastic. We saw lots of hippos and some crocodiles. The game drive was also good as we saw quite a good number of animals. Read more Written January 3, 2024
• Sherpa08524534556 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles So beautiful - Sani Pass 4 x 4 Tour and Lesotho Full Day Tour From Durban So beautiful - Sani Pass 4 x 4 Tour and Lesotho Full Day Tour From Durban. Great views atop the pass. Read more Written December 27, 2023
• Passenger35487480320 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Most enjoyable - Drakensberg and Nelson Mandela Capture Site Full-Day Private Tour Most enjoyable - Drakensberg and Nelson Mandela Capture Site Full-Day Private Tour. Drakensberg was so beautiful Read more Written December 27, 2023
• 395stefaniez 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Worst experience ever - guide could not answer a single question. HUGE Disappointment The boat ride in the morning was very nice and overall a pleasant experience. The game ride in the afternoon though was a huge disappointment. Although our driver and guide was very friendly, he had no experience at all. According to him, it was his first time at the resort. He never drove there before. Also, we were not aware that we will do the game ride in a small compact car, which was not suitable for driving off-road. Unfortunately, our guide could not answer any standard questions (how big is the resort, what animals are located, etc.). During the game ride, he did not know which roads to use and overall, he was not sure if driving on certain roads with the small car was safe at all. It was concerning and we felt not very secure. We saw some animals during our tour, but again our guide could not provide any information at all. For example, we asked about a certain bird, and he just answered “it’s a white bird. I don’t know. I have to google it”. He could not provide any information on the different animals. In general, it was a huge disappointment. It was our first time visiting Africa and that was not what we expected of a game ride. We paid a lot of money for this trip which was not performed as advertised. Read more Written November 21, 2023
• 197977 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles To be explored one day! Unfortunately due to unforeseen circumstances from the tour side,I did not get the opportunity to experience the DRANKENSBERG MOUNTAIN. Read more Written June 16, 2023
• jmonn556 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Enjoyable tour of Drakensberg and Howick Falls and Nelson Mandela Capture Site Enjoyable tour of Drakensberg and Howick Falls and Nelson Mandela Capture Site. Good scenery. Whole tour well worth a visit Read more Written February 28, 2023

More to explore in Durban

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Battle of Isandlwana and Rorkes Drift Full Day Tour from Durban provided by African Saf Tours

Exploring South Africa: A Guide to Rorke’s Drift and Isandlwana Battlefield Tours

Visiting South Africa from the United Kingdom offers travellers a unique opportunity to visit the battlefields of Rorkes Drift and Isandlwana.

• Post author By shelldon
• Post date January 28, 2024

Most international visitors see South Africa as a safari destination and are absolutely blown away when they hear just how much this small little country at the tip of Africa has influenced the world.

For travellers from the UK planning a visit to this fascinating country, there are a number of must see sites; and none more fascinating and impressive than the battlefields of Rorkes Drift and iSandlwana .

Why Visit Rorke’s Drift and Isandlwana?

Apart from the fact that the Anglo Zulu War of 1879 influenced British Military tactics and policy and brought a royal line to an end, the battles of iSandlwana and Rorkes Drift were a significant factor in the changing of the British government of the time and saw a change in attitude by the British people towards colonisation in general.

As the world moves on, sites such as Rorkes Drift and iSandlwana are remembered as places of great sacrifice and bravery on both sides of the conflict, and even today, to walk on the very ground where British and Zulu blood was spilt is as emotional as it is a privilege.

These sites are not just about battles; they are about the men who fought for their country, men who defended their lands, it’s about their stories and their courage. It’s about how their actions helped shape the rainbow nation of South Africa today.

Tour Details: Departing from Durban

All our tours, whether a one day tour , two day , or three day tour , start and finish in the vibrant city of Durban . This makes it incredibly convenient for travellers staying in or around the city.

The convenient King Shaka International Airport is just 15 min from Umhlanga and 20 min from Durban . Our tours are meticulously planned to ensure you have an enriching experience, from departure to return.

Expert Guidance by Qualified Battlefield Guides

What truly sets us apart is that we are not just generalist guides, we are in fact specialist battlefield guides . Apart from qualifying in our respective fields, all our battlefield guides are passionate about the events of the Anglo Zulu War and have spent years not only studying the sites, but exploring them as well.

All our our guides (me included) not only visit the sites as part of tours, but we also take part in educational tours where we walk the fields of Rorkes Drift and iSandlwana and discuss the events that happened there in order stay up to date.

Five-Star Experiences

Don’t just take our word for it. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our consistent 5-star ratings on TripAdvisor and ToursByLocals. These reviews are a testament to our dedication to providing quality, informative, and memorable tours.

You can read up on our reviews by visiting our TripAdvisor review page (link opens in a new tab) .

Convenience and Comfort

We understand the importance of convenience, especially for international travellers. This is why we’ll collect you from your hotel, B&B, or directly from the airport or harbour , and transfer you directly to the sites. And it’s not just a relaxing drive through a beautiful countryside, we’ll also give you some background on why the conflicts started in the first place.

Additionally, to enhance your experience, we provide a delicious, light picnic lunch during the tour that can be enjoyed under the shade of a Buffalo Thorn tree at Rorkes Drift

Join Us for a Journey into the Past

Our tours are more than just sightseeing; they are an educational journey, a tribute to the past, and an experience that resonates long after you return home.

As you plan your trip to South Africa, consider adding a battlefield tour to Rorkes Drift and iSandlwana to your itinerary. It’s an opportunity to connect with history, understand the present, and appreciate the beauty of South Africa.

Flexibility in Planning

South Africa has so much to offer international travellers and explorers which is why we offer a level of flexibility and bespoke itinerary planning to suit your time constraints, your budget and your interests.

We offer a number of safari tour options that you can enjoy before or after your battlefield tour . Conveniently, the battlefield of Ulundi is less than 30 minutes from the famed Big-5, Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve .

On our safari tours you get to enjoy African wildlife at it’s best , as well as excursions to an elephant and cheetah reserve and a 2 hour cruise on the St Lucia estuary spotting hippo and crocs.

Book Your Tour Today

Ready to embark on this historic journey? You can book by simply contact me using any of the options below. I look forward to guiding you through these remarkable chapters of South Africa’s history and sharing experiences that you will cherish forever.

• Call or WhatsApp on  +27 (0) 74 995 6669
• Email us:  [email protected]
• Use the convenient contact from below:

Your message (optional)

• Tags Battlefields , Excursions , Isandlwana , Rorkes Drift

• (510) 521-8448
• [email protected]

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Hornet Distance Learning

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Historical reenactment league, pts resource center, plan your visit, upcoming museum events, vip behind the scenes tour, wardroom speaker series: doolittle raid anniversary – the navy’s perspective, the ivth gathering: world goth day festival.

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Accessibility Information

Museum information, visitor tips, getting to the museum, general museum information.

Open Friday through Monday, 10AM – 5PM

(Last entry at 4PM)

Closed New Year’s, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Days

707 W Hornet Ave, Pier 3, Alameda CA 94501

Through Museums for All , those receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits) can gain reduced admission of $2.00 per visitor to the Hornet Museum simply by presenting their EBT card at the Admissions Desk.

Note: Unaccompanied Youths must be at least 16 years of age. Identification as proof of age may be required.

Group Discounted Admission rates are available for 15 or more people with advance reservation. To make a reservation, please visit our Specialty Tours page.

Current Weather on the Hornet

Docent daily tours.

Tour Length: 1 Hour

Price: $10 per person (50% discount for Museum Members ) in addition to General Admission

Departure Times: 11AM, 1PM, 3PM*

Tour Options

Engine Room

Tour Highlights: Engine Room & Fire Room

Tour Highlights: Navigation, Pilot House, Captain’s Bridge

Sailor Life

Tour Highlights: Ge-Dunk, Galley & Mess Decks, Athletic Locker, Cobbler Shop, Laundry, Sickbay

*Tour times are dependent on docent availability .

*Due to safety concerns, all visitors on Daily Tours must be at least 48 inches in height.

Tips and guidelines to fully enjoy your visit to the USS Hornet Sea, Air & Space Museum!

Allow at least 2 to 3 hours for your visit

Allow at least 2 to 3 hours for your visit — there is a lot to see on the ship and more spaces are opened every month. Some areas of the ship start closing by 3 PM, so we recommend arriving no later than 2 PM for the engine room and other docent-led tours.

Please do not bring permanent markers, aerosol cans, or oversize bags

Please do not bring permanent markers or aerosol cans aboard the Museum.

Additionally, our hatches between decks can be narrow at times. For your safety and the security of the Museum, upon arrival Security will ask that all bags larger than 12” x 8” x 12” are either returned to your car or kept in a rentable locker by Admissions for a small rental fee. This includes backpacks, camera bags, tote bags, diaper bags, ladies purses, etc.

Please note: for safety reasons, backpack-style infant carriers are also not permitted.

The ship is mostly self-guided

The ship is mostly self-guided. A museum map is available at Admissions and you can inquire about docent-led tours at Orientation. We also invite visitors to download our Museum’s app. You can find it in your app store by searching “USSHornet.”

We have free parking

There is plenty of free parking across the street. Spaces are available for buses and RVs. Please, no vehicles on the pier (exceptions are made for those with valid disability placards).

Children must be with an adult at all times

For their safety, children must be supervised by an adult at all times.

Service animals are welcome. Pets and other animals are not allowed on the ship.

Service animals are welcome. Pets and other animals are not allowed on the ship. See service animal policy on our Accessibility Information  page.

Wheelchair and stroller accessibility is extremely limited

Due to the historic nature of the ship, wheelchair and stroller accessibility is extremely limited. A virtual tour is available for viewing on the Hangar Deck; ask the orientation docent for assistance. For more information, please see our Accessibility Information page.

Size & Height Restrictions

To ensure the safety of our visitors and crew, Engine Room, Fire Room, and Primary Flight Control tours are limited in group size and by visitor height. Our guideline is to allow adults and children taller than 48 inches to go on those tours to special locations. This policy is due to having to traverse very steep ladders and stairs, narrow walkways, and significantly raised thresholds that can prove extremely challenging.

Our Flight Simulator also has a height restriction of 38″.

Cameras are Welcome

Cameras are welcome, but we ask that photographs are taken for personal use only. Keep you and your camera safe by using the neck strap or wrist strap while exploring the ship.

For commercial or professional photographs, photoshoots, or filming, please contact Private Events .

Talk to Volunteers on Ship

Talk to the many volunteers aboard the ship! They are great about sharing information about the ship, the restoration process, and their own experiences in the service. Many of our volunteers are veterans.

Docent Availability

Our Docents are unpaid volunteers. They tend to leave the ship early on weekdays. We can not guarantee that there will always be Docents available to take you on a tour. Audio tour devices are always available at Admissions.

Public Transportation

Public Transportation via BART & Bus: In Oakland, disembark at Fruitvale Station and then take the Line 78 bus out to USS Hornet.  Please visit the AC Transit website, here , to see a detailed schedule of times and bus stop options.

Public Transportation via Ferry: A much more scenic option is to take a ferry from the SF Ferry Building at the foot of Market Street and a 20 minute ride will get you to either the Seaplane Lagoon Terminal , a 10 minute walk from the ship, or the Alameda Main Street Terminal , a short  cab or rideshare or a 2.1 mile walk.

Parking is free and plentiful adjacent to the Museum’s pier.

From San Francisco and the Bay Bridge

Cross the Bay Bridge towards Oakland and follow the signs for I-880 South/San Jose/Alameda. Take the Broadway/Alameda exit and turn right at the bottom of the ramp onto 5th Street. Continue straight on 5th Street, remaining on street level. At the Broadway intersection, veer to your left to enter the Webster Street Tube (the Alameda entrance to the tunnel is under the freeway).

Alameda from the Webster Street Tube: After emerging from the Tube, follow the sign for Webster Street. At the corner of Webster and Ralph Appezzato Memorial Pkwy (directly after College of Alameda), turn right onto Ralph Appezzato Memorial Pkwy and drive approximately one mile. Turn left onto Ferry Point and keep driving past the Seaplane Lagoon Ferry Terminal to a cluster of large ships. USS Hornet is at the final pier, Pier 3, with the aircraft on her Flight Deck.

From San Jose and I-880 Northbound

Proceed toward downtown Oakland and take the Broadway exit. At the end of the ramp, follow the signs to Alameda, turning right on Broadway and then immediately turning right on 7th Street. Go two blocks to Webster Street and turn right again, entering the Webster Tube (tunnel) to Alameda. (Alternate: Turn left on Broadway and left again to enter Tube under the freeway overpass.)

From Sacramento and I-80 Westbound

Take I-880 south and take the Broadway/Alameda exit. At the end of the ramp turn right onto 5th Street. Stay in the right lane. Continue on 5th Street, remaining on street level. At the Broadway intersection, veer to your left to enter the Webster Street Tube (the Alameda entrance to the tunnel is under the freeway).

From Walnut Creek and 24 Westbound

Take Highway 24 to I-980 to downtown Oakland. Take the 11th/12th Street exit onto Brush Street. Proceed to 5th Street and turn left. Make a slight left on Broadway which will take you into the Webster Tube (tunnel) to Alameda.

From Oakland Airport

Follow Airport Drive out of the Airport and turn left on Doolittle Drive. This will lead over a bridge into Alameda and become Otis Drive. Proceed on Otis to Westline Drive/8th Street (end of road before park entrance) and turn right. Turn left on Central Avenue and follow the road approximately one mile and past Encinal High School. Central Ave will merge into Main Street. Turn left onto W Oriskany Ave to enter the former naval air station. Turn left when it ends at Ferry Point St. and continue to the end of the road, past the the cluster of large ships. Parking is located across the street from the pier.

Detour for Tube Closures:

From I-880, take the 23rd Street exit. Follow the signs to Alameda and go over the Park Street Bridge. Turn right at Lincoln Avenue and proceed approximately 3.5 miles. Lincoln Ave will merge into Pacific Ave. Cross Main Street to enter the former naval air station. At the intersection of Skyhawk St, turn left and drive to the end of the street. Turn right onto W Hornet Ave and proceed towards the cluster of large ships. Parking is located across the street from the pier.

To find Alameda hotels nearby, visit HotelsCombined

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• About this activity

San Jose: One day Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Tour

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Selective hotel pickup
• Multiple languages
• The most time in Yosemite National Park—over 5 hours
• Fully guided tour by a Yosemite Park expert
• Unique Giant Sequoias hike in Tuolumne Grove
• Tunnel View, Bridalveil Fall, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan
• 2 hours of free time to explore Yosemite Valley

Activity location

• Yosemite National Park Road
• 95389, Yosemite Valley, California, United States of America

Meeting/Redemption Point

• 170 South Market Street
• 95113, San Jose, California, United States of America
• Sun, Apr 14 -
• Mon, Apr 15 -
• Tue, Apr 16 -
• Wed, Apr 17 -
• Thu, Apr 18 -
• Fri, Apr 19 -
• Sat, Apr 20 $289
• Sun, Apr 21 -
• Mon, Apr 22 -
• Tue, Apr 23 -
• Wed, Apr 24 -
• Thu, Apr 25 -
• Fri, Apr 26 -
• Sat, Apr 27 $289
• Sun, Apr 28 -

San Jose: One day Yosemite and Giant Sequoia Tour

• Activity duration is 15 hours 15h 15h

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included Park reservation and entry fee
• What's included What's included Pick up and drop off in San Jose
• What's included What's included Hike to Yosemite’s Giant Sequoias (weather permitting)
• What's included What's included Local expert guide (English)
• What's included What's included Pre-recorded audios in Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, Korean
• What's excluded What's excluded Guide gratuity
• What's excluded What's excluded Meals & Beverages

Know before you book

• You must bring a child safety seat for children under 8 years of age or 4 foot 9 inches (144 cm) tall.
• This tour operates rain or shine. Access to the giant sequoias traill depends on snow and trail conditions, and it may be closed from November to April.
• When the giant sequoias trail is snow-covered or unsafe (November-April), we spend extra time in Yosemite Valley instead

What you can expect

The Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Tour from San Jose is a day-long adventure that lets you explore the wonders of Yosemite National Park. This journey offers an enriching experience, showcasing the park's stunning landscapes, including its famous giant sequoias, breathtaking waterfalls, and iconic rock formations like El Capitan and Half Dome.

Your tour begins with a convenient hotel pick up in San Jose. Sit back and enjoy the scenery as your guide explains how glitter in the American River sparked the California gold rush; what geological forces made Yosemite’s dramatic landscapes; and the role John Muir played in the formation of America’s first protected wilderness.

Upon entering Yosemite National Park, we'll visit iconic locations celebrated by photographer Ansel Adams. Enjoy breathtaking views at Tunnel View, featuring landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome. After capturing these moments, we'll move closer to Bridalveil Fall, allowing for an intimate experience with this majestic waterfall. This part of the tour offers unforgettable photographic opportunities against the backdrop of Yosemite's most famous vistas.

After arriving at our main stop in Yosemite Valley, you will have 2 hours for lunch and exploring on your own. The free time options include hiking to Yosemite Falls, meandering through Sentinel Meadow, checking out the Ansel Adams Gallery and more.

Your Yosemite experience stops next at El Capitan Meadow to learn more about the world’s largest granite monolith and its climbing culture. As we are leaving Yosemite Valley, we will make our final stop at Valley View which serves up a panoramic landscape framing the Merced River, El Capitan and the imposing spires of Cathedral Rocks.

The highlight of our tour is still ahead of you as we head to the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. In this beautiful grove, you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with some of the largest and oldest trees on earth.

When the Tuolumne Grove trail is snow-covered or unsafe, we always spend extra time in Yosemite Valley.

By the end of the day, you’ll have experienced some of the most incredible landscapes in the world and captured memories to last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore Yosemite National Park with us.