The Full Day Battle of Isandlwana & Rorkes Drift Tour from Durban offers a comprehensive exploration of two pivotal battles in the Anglo-Zulu War. With knowledgeable guides, visitors can explore the rich history and dramatic landscapes that shaped South Africa’s past. From the Isandlwana battlefield to the Rorkes Drift museum, this 10-hour experience provides insights into the events of January 1879 that forever changed the course of the region. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious to learn more, this tour promises an immersive and thought-provoking journey through a turbulent chapter in South Africa’s history.

Good To Know

Full Day Battle of Isandlwana & Rorkes Drift Tour Fr Durban - Good To Know

  • Explore the historic battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift on a full-day tour from Durban, covering the major events of the Anglo-Zulu War.

  • Visit the Isandlwana Battlefield and Museum to learn about the decisive British defeat, a key moment that shaped the course of the war.

  • Discover the Rorke’s Drift Battlefield and Museum, which highlights the bravery and tactics of the small British garrison that defended against a larger Zulu force.

  • Conclude the tour with a stop at Fugitives Drift, where you can gain insight into the experiences of the retreating British troops after the Isandlwana defeat.

  • The tour is priced at Kč4,727 per person, includes live English-speaking guides, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

Full Day Battle of Isandlwana & Rorkes Drift Tour Fr Durban - Tour Overview

The tour offers a full-day experience exploring the Battle of Isandlwana and the Battle of Rorkes Drift, two pivotal events during the Anglo-Zulu War.

Priced at Kč4,727 per person, the tour lasts 10 hours and includes live English-speaking guides.

Pickup from preferred locations is provided, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Visitors can reserve now and pay later.

The tour covers visits to the Isandlwana and Rorkes Drift battlefields and museums, as well as a final stop at Fugitives Drift before returning to Durban.

Historical Context

Full Day Battle of Isandlwana & Rorkes Drift Tour Fr Durban - Historical Context

The Battle of Isandlwana occurred on 22 January 1879, marking the first major encounter in the Anglo-Zulu War between the British Empire and the Zulu Kingdom.

A Zulu force of approximately 20,000 warriors attacked a British column of about 1,800 troops shortly after the British invasion of Zululand.

This decisive defeat for the British was followed by the Battle of Rorkes Drift, where a small British garrison successfully defended a mission station on 22-23 January 1879 against a large Zulu force.

These two battles were pivotal events in the early stages of the Anglo-Zulu War, shaping the course of the conflict.

Isandlwana Battlefield and Museum

Full Day Battle of Isandlwana & Rorkes Drift Tour Fr Durban - Isandlwana Battlefield and Museum

At the Isandlwana Battlefield, visitors can explore the site of the decisive British defeat in the opening engagement of the Anglo-Zulu War.

The museum on the battlefield provides insights into the events of that fateful day on January 22, 1879, when a Zulu force of around 20,000 overwhelmed and nearly annihilated a British column of about 1,800 troops.

Exhibits showcase artifacts, maps, and interactive displays that bring the battle to life, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the tactics, weapons, and outcomes of this historic clash.

The battlefield itself offers a chance to walk the ground and imagine the chaos and carnage that unfolded here over 140 years ago.

Rorkes Drift Battlefield and Museum

Full Day Battle of Isandlwana & Rorkes Drift Tour Fr Durban - Rorkes Drift Battlefield and Museum

Following the exploration of the Isandlwana Battlefield, the tour moves on to the site of the remarkable Battle of Rorke’s Drift.

This clash, occurring on 22-23 January 1879, saw a small British force of around 150 defend a mission station against an estimated 4,000 Zulu warriors.

Visitors can explore the battlefield and museum, which provide insights into this heroic stand. The museum exhibits period artifacts, interactive displays, and informative exhibits that bring the events to life.

Key highlights of the Rorke’s Drift experience include:

  • Seeing the original battlefield and surviving structures
  • Learning about the bravery and tactics of the defenders
  • Exploring the museum’s collection of weapons and equipment
  • Understanding the broader context of the Anglo-Zulu War
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Fugitives Drift

Full Day Battle of Isandlwana & Rorkes Drift Tour Fr Durban - Fugitives Drift

As the final stop of the tour, Fugitives Drift offers visitors a poignant conclusion to their journey through the historic battles of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift.

This evocative site marks the location where British forces fled after their devastating defeat at Isandlwana. Guests can explore the dramatic landscape and gain insight into the harrowing experiences of the retreating troops.

The museum at Fugitives Drift provides a detailed account of the events that unfolded, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the dramatic history of this pivotal moment in the Anglo-Zulu War.

The tour’s final stop leaves a lasting impression, ensuring travelers depart with a deeper understanding of this seminal chapter in South African history.

Inclusions

Full Day Battle of Isandlwana & Rorkes Drift Tour Fr Durban - Inclusions

The tour includes access to both the Isandlwana Battlefield and Museum as well as the Rorkes Drift Battlefield and Museum.

Plus, hotel, airport, and port pickups and drop-offs are provided for convenience.

The tour highlights include:

  • Visiting the Isandlwana Battlefield and Museum to learn about the first major encounter in the Anglo-Zulu War.
  • Exploring the Rorkes Drift Battlefield and Museum, where a famous defense against the Zulu forces took place.
  • Making a final stop at Fugitives Drift before returning to Durban.
  • Experiencing the tour with a live English-speaking guide.

Booking Information

Full Day Battle of Isandlwana & Rorkes Drift Tour Fr Durban - Booking Information

To book the Isandlwana & Rorkes Drift Tour, visitors can check availability for different starting times.

They’ll need to select the number of participants and the date they’d like to take the tour. The tour offers a reserve now and pay later option, making it easy to secure a spot.

Guests can also take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, which provides flexibility.

With pickups included from preferred locations, the tour makes it convenient for travelers to explore these historic battlefields.

Booking the tour is straightforward, allowing visitors to embark on this immersive historical experience.

Tour Highlights

Full Day Battle of Isandlwana & Rorkes Drift Tour Fr Durban - Tour Highlights

The tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the historic battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorkes Drift.

Guests will visit the Isandlwana Battlefield and Museum, where they can learn about the decisive defeat of the British forces by the Zulu army.

They’ll then travel to Rorkes Drift, where a small British garrison successfully defended against a much larger Zulu force in one of the most famous battles of the Anglo-Zulu War.

The tour includes:

  • Exploring the Isandlwana Battlefield and Museum
  • Visiting the Rorkes Drift Battlefield and Museum
  • Making a final stop at Fugitives Drift before returning to Durban

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not specify a dress code. Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended for exploring the historical sites and battlefields throughout the day-long excursion.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, there may not be designated eating areas or facilities available at the historical sites, so it’s best to plan accordingly.

Are There Any Fitness Requirements for the Tour?

There are no specific fitness requirements for this tour. Participants should be able to walk moderate distances on uneven terrain. The tour operator can accommodate guests with limited mobility with prior notice.

Can We Take Photos During the Tour?

Visitors are generally encouraged to take photos during the tour. However, they should be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines provided by the tour guide to preserve the historical sites and maintain a respectful atmosphere.

Is There an Age Limit for Participants?

The tour doesn’t have a stated age limit. However, it may not be suitable for young children due to the historical content and walking involved. Participants of all ages are welcome, but parental discretion is advised.

The Sum Up

The Full Day Battle of Isandlwana & Rorkes Drift Tour from Durban offers an immersive exploration of two pivotal battles in the Anglo-Zulu War. Participants can explore the rich history and dramatic landscapes, with visits to the battlefields and museums, led by live English-speaking guides. With convenient pickup options and a flexible cancellation policy, this 10-hour experience provides a comprehensive understanding of South Africa’s past.

You can check availability for your dates here: