South Africa Anglo-Zulu War 2026

Today we trace the movements of Colonel Pearson’s Right Flank column during the early stages of the Anglo-Zulu War. Following the path of his advance toward the mission station at Eshowe, we’ll explore the key battles of Nyezane and Gingindlovu, which shaped the course of his campaign.

At Eshowe, we’ll visit the haunting remains of the mission station where Pearson’s forces endured a three-month siege in 1879. Nearby lies a cemetery that tells its own quiet story of hardship and loss. After lunch in Eshowe, we tour the Fort Nongqayi Museum Complex, offering deeper insight into colonial life and the military history of the region.

We check in this evening at our lodge in Eshowe, where we’ll stay for two nights. (B, L, D)

Accommodation: Eshowe or similar

We journey deep into the remote areas of Zulu country to visit the grave of King Cetshwayo, who was deposed during the British invasion. Here, we also explore the story of the 1906 Rebellion, the last major Zulu uprising, much of which took place near his resting place. (B, L, D)

Accommodation: Eshowe or similar

Leaving the Eshowe area, we journey to Ulundi, the historic heartland of the Zulu kingdom. Here, we explore the museum and the partially reconstructed royal homestead of King Cetshwayo at oNdini, followed by a visit to the Ulundi battlefield, where the war’s final battle was fought. After a picnic lunch, we continue on to Hluhluwe Game Reserve, our base for the next two nights.(B, L, D)

Accommodation: Hluhluwe Game Reserve or similar

Experience a thrilling yet leisurely day as we team up with Hluhluwe Park Game Rangers in open safari vehicles to track the legendary ‘Big Five’: lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo. With luck, we may also spot elusive cheetahs and wild dogs along the way. (B, L, D)

Accommodation: Hluhluwe Game Reserve or similar

If you’re fit and the weather is favourable, we’ll hike up the slopes of Hlobane Mountain (please note: this can be a challenging walk, and the trails are in poor condition) to learn about the British mounted foray that was repelled with heavy losses. We’ll visit the graves of Captain Campbell and Civilian Interpreter Lloyd, two of Wood’s aides who fell in the battle and rest high on the hillside. Afterwards, we’ll check in to our lodge in Vryheid for a two-night stay. (B, L, D)

Accommodation: Vryheid or similar

We travel to the lesser-known battlefield of Ntombe, where in March 1879, a convoy of the 80th Regiment was ambushed and overrun. Weather and river conditions permitting, we’ll wade across the stream to explore both banks of this historic site. (B, L, D)

Accommodation: Vryheid or similar

This morning, we explore the Khambula battlefield, the decisive turning point of the war. Here, the same Zulu regiments that had earlier triumphed at Isandlwana—and were emboldened by their success at Hlobane the previous day—attacked Colonel Wood’s fortified camp. From there, we visit the Voortrekker Blood River battlefield, where the Boers defeated the Zulus in 1838 and where a striking monument stands in remembrance. We also stop at the solitary memorial marking the spot where Prince Louis Napoleon, the Prince Imperial of France and last legitimate Bonaparte heir, was killed in a skirmish. Finally, we check in to Isandlwana Lodge for a four-night stay. (B, L, D)

Accommodation: Isandlwana Lodge or similar

The first of two days exploring the dramatic Isandlwana campaign in detail. We will drive out to the Ngwebeni Valley, where the Zulu army bivouacked before the battle, and where they were discovered by a British patrol. We will then consider the battle from the commanding knoll where the Zulu generals directed their forces. From there we will go to the battlefield itself. We will explore the monuments and hear the story of the fighting from the British perspective – we will then walk out to the British firing lines, and down to the donga defended by Col. Durnford. (B, L, D)

Accommodation:  Isandlwana Lodge or similar

This morning, those who are fit and willing can walk as much of the ‘Fugitives’ Trail‘ as possible, exploring the many British graves scattered behind Isandlwana along the road to Rorke’s Drift. Alternatively, you may choose to spend the morning relaxing at the lodge. After lunch, we’ll cross to the Natal side of the river to visit the graves of Lieutenants Melvill and Coghill, who lost their lives attempting to save the Queen’s Colour of the 24th Regiment. We will then drive to the nearby hills where Lord Chelmsford spent the day of the battle away from the camp and learn the story of his return. (B, L, D)

Accommodation: Isandlwana Lodge or similar

Spend a full day at the renowned battlefield of Rorke’s Drift, where there is much to discover. We start at the Umzinyathi (Buffalo) River crossing, the point where the British invasion on this front began, before visiting the mission station for Ian’s compelling keynote talk on the battle’s story. Remarkably, no fewer than 11 Victoria Crosses were awarded during this engagement, which inspired the famous 1964 film Zulu. There will be ample opportunity to explore both the myths and realities surrounding the battle. After lunch, enjoy time to visit the on-site museum and to wander the battlefield at your own pace.(B, L, D)

Accommodation: Isandlwana Lodge or similar

On our final day, we travel by coach back to Johannesburg, enjoying a picnic lunch along the way. Those with onward travel plans will be dropped off at Johannesburg Airport. (B, L)

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