Flagship tours to Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift are led by registered tour guides Douglas Rattray, Mphiwa Ntanzi and Brian Mcube, 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.
DIRECTIONS FROM JOHANNESBURG AIRPORT (5.5 hours)
From the airport, follow signs to the N3 South (to KwaZulu Natal). Drive on the N3 South towards Durban for about 1½ hours. Cross the Vaal River, and go through the Wilge Toll Plaza. After Wilge, take the off ramp onto the R34 to Warden and Vrede. Just before the town of Vrede, turn right on the R34 towards Memel and Newcastle. Go through Newcastle until you reach a t-junction (McDonald’s will be on your left). Turn right here, and continue along the R34 (Allen Street) until you reach another t-junction. Turn right for Dundee.
When you reach Dundee, continue straight through the town (keeping left at the circle) towards the Talana Museum and Vryheid.
Leave Dundee, passing the Talana Museum on your left, and continue straight for about 6km until you see a right-hand turn signposted to Nqutu. Turn right.
After roughly 25-30km, turn right onto a dirt road, signed to Rorke’s Drift (and Fugitives’ Drift). Drive for 7km until you reach a t-junction; turn LEFT to Rorke’s Drift. Continue straight for about 10km. Pass the Rorke’s Drift battlefield on your left (you will see a gate with Shiyane written on it) and continue straight for another 2km until you see a left-hand turn onto the D31, signed Fugitives’ Drift.
Go along this road for 7km through the big black gate until you see signs for the Lodge and Guest House, on the right.
Please note that our gate is locked at 6pm. If you think you are going to be later than this or need any assistance, kindly let us know by phoning: 034 271 8051 / 072 273 6795 (Whatsapp
The Lodge is situated on the site of the original Rattray homestead where David’s parents Peter and Gillian came for their holidays and here the seeds of this unique operation took root in those early years.