Estcourt is one of the oldest towns in Natal and also a Voortrekker settlement which have been established in 1838. It is a small town located on the Bushman River servicing an intensive cultivated farming area.
Estcourt is a good center for visiting the Drakensberg and is also part of the Battlefields Route in KwaZulu Natal.
Activities
Wagendrift Dam
The dam is 5km southwest of Estcourt, offers good fishing and water sports.
Fort Durnford
Fort Durnford, established in 1874 by Major Anthony Durnford, is now a museum.
Weenen Nature Reserve
30km northeast of Estcourt is Weenen Nature Reserve (area 5,000ha). A number of hiking trails run through the reserve, which is home to rhinos, buffaloes, giraffes and various species of antelope.
Voortrekker - Zulu War Sites
- Saailaager - 12 February 1838. Zulu attack on Voortrekkers after execution of Piet Retief. Zulus repelled. Restored Voortrekker house on site. Follow Alfred Street in Estcourt, past quarry, cross stream. Memorial at fork in dirt road. Open daily.
Tel: 036 352 6253
- Rensburg Koppie - 17 February 1838. Young Martinus Oosthuysen courageously saved Three Voortrekker families from Zulu attack. On private farm between Estcourt and Mooi River. Arrange visit at Fort Durnford.
Tel: 036 352 3000
- Veglaer - Site of three day Zulu attacks (13-15 February 1838) on Voortrekker laager. Actual site beneath Wagendrift Dam. Diorama explains battle, shows Voortrekker's battle tactics. From Estcourt follow signs to Wagendrift Dam.
Tel: 036 352 6253
- Bloukrans - Many Voortrekker families annihilated during Zulu attack, 16 to 17 February 1838. Memorial on site. Off R103. Open daily.
Tel: 036 352 6253
Anglo Boer War Sites
- Battle of Willow Grange - 23 November 1899. Most southern point reached by Boer forces. Battle fought between Boer and British Forces. Cmdt-Gen Piet Joubert injured and unvalided to Pretoria. South of Estcourt. Arrange visit at Fort Durnford Museum.
