UK
Mountains and Battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal
13 days from £3300 per person
Route: Umhlanga – Balgowan – The Drakensberg – Battlefields - Zululand Safari – Umhlanga
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.
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 Rorke's 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 KZN.
CONTACT US TO DISCUSS YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS
01892 515966
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to Price
to Price
Pettitts guide to price for this itinerary would be £3300 per person
The exact cost of this itinerary will vary depending on the season of travel, standard of accommodation, flight class, activities included and the date the booking is made. Please speak to one of our experienced travel specialists who will create a completely tailor-made and personalized quotation based on your requirements and budget.
** The above price is based on two adults travelling together in economy, sharing accommodation, travel based on low season for this destination and advance booking approximately nine months prior to travel**
Itinerary: Self-Drive: Mountains and Battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal
Accommodation in Umhlanga: 5* Beverly Hills Hotel (or similar)
Alternative option: 5* The Oyster Box
Accommodation in Balgowan: 4* Granny Mouse Country House (or similar)
Accommodation in the Drakensberg: 4* Three Tree Hill Lodge (or similar)
Alternative option: 4* Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse
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, L, D)
Accommodation in the Drakensberg: 4* Three Tree Hill Lodge (or similar)
Alternative option: 4* Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse
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, L, D)
Accommodation in the Battlefields: 4* Fugitives Drift Lodge (or similar)
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. Enjoy sundowners in the beautiful lodge before a fine dining yet traditional dinner. (B, L, D)
Accommodation in the Battlefields: 4* Fugitives Drift Lodge (or similar)
After breakfast this morning you will begin your journey into the heart of the Zululand where you will stay at the Leopard Mountain Lodge. 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 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, L, D)
Accommodation in Zululand:5* Leopard Mountain Game Lodge (or similar)
Alternative option: 5* Thana Private Game 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 in Zululand:5* Leopard Mountain Game Lodge (or similar)
Alternative option: 5* Thana Private Game Reserve
Accommodation in Umhlanga: 5* Beverly Hills Hotel (or similar)
Alternative option: 5* The Oyster Box
Accommodation in Umhlanga: 5* Beverly Hills Hotel (or similar)
Alternative option: 5* The Oyster Box
**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.
