Self-Drive: Mountains and Battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal

12 days from £1800 per person

Two zulu men in traditional costume dancing

Culture-rich and brimming with historical sites, discover the diverse landscapes and natural beauty of the compelling KwaZulu-Natal region on this self-drive adventure. You’ll start your holiday enjoying the relaxed coastal vibe of Umhlanga, just north of Durban, where you can soak up the warm rays on the golden sandy shores and spot dolphins in their natural habitat. From here you will travel through dramatic sceneries before reaching your peaceful retreat in the Northern Drakensberg region, set to a backdrop of striking mountain peaks. You’ll move on to explore the historic battlefields region and gain an insight into the ferocious wars that took place here, before travelling into the very heart of the Zululand Rhino Reserve. Here you will stay in a luxurious yet authentic safari lodge which provides an exciting opportunity to spot the Big Five; the perfect way to round off your journey through the mighty KwaZulu-Natal region.

Route: Durban – Umhlanga – The Drakensberg – Battlefields – Zululand Rhino Reserve

Itinerary Highlights

The mighty Drakensberg mountain range offers a wide variety of hiking trails that lead to breath-taking lookout points and caves that shelter pre-historic rock paintings.

Gain a deeper insight into KwaZulu Natal’s war-torn past during a visit to the historic battlefields including the battlegrounds of Isandlwana and Rorkes Drift.

Relish the beautiful surroundings of your luxurious safari lodge before embarking on game drives in search of wildlife; the perfect way to conclude an exploration of KwaZulu Natal.

Itinerary: Self-Drive: Mountains and Battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal

Day 1 London to Durban

Today you begin your journey by boarding your international overnight flight to Durban. (N)

Day 2 Durban to Umhlanga - 17 km

Upon arrival into Durban International airport, you will collect your hire car and drive to your centrally located hotel in Umhlanga. The rest of the day is free for you to relax using the hotel’s facilities, or perhaps go for a stroll along the golden shores of arguably one the most beautiful coastlines in the world. (N)

Accommodation: Royal Palm Gateway (or similar)

Day 3 Umhlanga

You might choose to join a tour of the city to explore the culture and history of this cosmopolitan city. You’ll visit the City Hall, Botanical Gardens and the impressive Moses Mabhida Stadium. We reckon it’s worth taking the optional cable car to the top of the stadium, as the views over Durban are phenomenal. Alternatively, if you fancy something a little more relaxed and wish to spot dolphins in their natural habitat, then drive around 30 minutes north to Dolphin coast. Here you will find large schools of bottlenose dolphins happily riding the waves; it’s also the perfect spot for you to enjoy warm waters and soak up the charming atmosphere too. (B)

Accommodation: Royal Palm Gateway (or similar)

Day 4 Durban to The Drakensberg - 293 km

Today you will drive around 3 hours through enchanting countrysides and green rolling hills as you journey to your accommodation, located in the North of the mighty Drakensberg Mountain region. You might wish to stop off at the delightful town of Pietermaritzburg where you can go for a stroll along the tree-lined streets and admire the historic buildings. After you arrive at your accommodation, spend the rest of the day relaxing in your peaceful surroundings, admiring the views of the mountain peaks in the distance as you enjoy a glass of wine. (B)

Accommodation: The Cavern Drakensberg Resort and Spa (or similar)

Day 5 The Drakensberg

You might decide to lace up your walking boots today and follow some of the hiking trails that take you through the majestic mountain range. You might wish to book an experienced guide who will be able to tailor your hike to suit your fitness level and provide additional information about the local area. Later on you might visit the Giant’s Castle area, home to caves that feature the Drakensberg rock paintings which are reportedly over 800 years old. A truly thrilling experience if your fitness level allows you to go off the beaten track in search of more remote caves. (B)

Accommodation: The Cavern Drakensberg Resort and Spa (or similar)

Day 6 The Drakensberg to The Battlefields - 204 km

After breakfast this morning, you will drive around three hours through an expansive countryside where wildlife freely roam, until you reach your accommodation in the Battlefield region. Today is free for you to relax into your new surroundings, or if you are ready to start brushing up on your battlefields knowledge, then you might decide to pay a visit to the Talana Museum, one of the top war museums in South Africa. (B)

Accommodation: Fugitives Drift Guest Lodge (or similar)

Day 7 The Battlefields

Today is free for you to join a tour of the battlefields. Gain a deeper insight into the region’s war-torn past as you visit the Isandlwana battleground, where British troops saw a humiliating defeat in 1879 by the Zulu warriors. After, you will visit the iconic mission station at Rorkes Drift where on the same day, an army of British soldiers, who were drastically outnumbered to their Zulu opponents, battled for around 12 hours until they successfully defended their garrison. (B)

Accommodation: Fugitives Drift Guest Lodge (or similar)

Day 8 The Battlefields to Zululand Rhino Reserve - 304 km

After breakfast this morning you will begin your four hour journey into the heart of the Zululand Rhino Reserve. After you arrive, settle into your luxurious safari lodge and relax on your private veranda before embarking on your first game drive this afternoon. Your knowledgeable ranger will drive you in an open-air safari vehicle through the Zululand Rhino Reserve in search of wildlife; keeping an eye out for the elusive leopard. Enjoy dinner in the open-air boma this evening, as you dine under the stars. (B/D)

Accommodation: Rhino River Lodge, on a full board basis (or similar)

Day 9 Zululand Rhino Reserve

You’ll rise early this morning to enjoy another game drive as the local wildlife wake from their sleep as the sun rises on the horizon. After, you will enjoy a hearty breakfast back at the lodge. Today you might choose to relax using the lodge’s facilities, or book on to a bush walk with an experienced ranger. These walks are a fantastic way to experience the African bush and see wildlife up close and personal. (B/L/D)

Accommodation: Rhino River Lodge, on a full board basis (or similar)

Day 10 Zululand Rhino Reserve to Durban - 301 km/ Durban to London

Rise early again this morning to enjoy your last game drive, before breakfast. Today is free for you to use the lodge’s facilities, before driving approximately 3 hours to Durban International airport. When you arrive, drop off your hire car and board your onward flight to the UK via Johannesburg. (B)

Day 12 Arrive London

Today you will arrive back into the UK, where you will continue on your journey home. (N)

**KEY: N = No meals, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

What's included

International flights from the UK
Wildlife viewing with local naturalist
Hotel accommodation and taxes
Car hire as specified

What's not included

Cost of visas
Travel Insurance
Expenses of a personal nature
Meals unless specified

Guide to Price

The above price is based on two people travelling together and sharing accommodation in low season. The price is only a guide and can vary according to selected airlines, hotels and date of travel. If you wish to travel with your family, friends or on your own we will be very happy to assist you with your arrangements.

Self-Drive: Mountains and Battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal

12 days from £1800 per person

Itinerary Highlights

Itinerary: Self-Drive: Mountains and Battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal

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What's included

What's not included

Guide to Price

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