iSibindi Zulu Lodge is situated in a private game reserve in the ruggedly beautiful Zululand region of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. An architectural celebration of the Zulu nation, the lodge is a peaceful bushveld retreat which also offers a host of activities for our guests wanting to experience a combination of luxurious accommodation, gameviewing, battlefields and Zulu cultural experiences.

This 12 bed luxury lodge is a stone's throw away from the historically momentous Anglo-Zulu battlefields of Rorke's Drift and Isandlwana where Zulu and British clashed in a devastating battle which had enormous consequences for the Zulu people. The lodge also offers a choice of authentic Zulu cultural experiences. We also pride ourselves on continuing to receive numerous accolades on our cuisine!

Architecturally inspired by the traditional Zulu beehive shape, the unique Beehive Suites at iSibindi Zulu Lodge offer panoramic views of the game reserve and its diverse habitats, ranging from montane grassland to riverine forests.

Each Beehive suite has its own viewing deck overlooking the game reserve and the surrounding hills like Rorke's Drift. All rooms are en-suite with separate bath and spacious shower.

The Honeymoon Suite, comanding views of a particularly game rich area of the reserve, has a romantic sunken stone bath. The rooms are individually set along the ridge, ensuring ones privacy in this tranquil environment.

The main lodge set amongst huge Buffalo Thorn Trees and dolorite boulders, boasts a homely lounge with a large fireplace, a library, a unique bar carved out of a Wait-a-Bit Thorn Tree, a swimming pool with a view and spacious verandah. The privately set swimming pool has breathtaking views over the game reserve. Guests gather around the bar in the evenings to recall the day's safari on the Anglo-Zulu Battlefields or a game walk on the game reserve.

Accommodation at the Lodge is on a full board basis, and includes 3 meals and tea and coffee every day.

Isibindi Zulu Lodge takes pride in its cuisine and has developed a reputation for its unique presentation of South African Fair. Breakfasts and lunches are either served al fresco at the swimming pool or on the verandah.

Isibindi Game Reserve

iSibindi Zulu Lodge is situated within the 4000 acre Isibindi Eco-Reserve which offers diverse habitats ranging from montane grassland and valley thornveld to riverine forests. The reserve is home to abundant indigenous game, morning and evening game drives are offered and there is excellent bird watching. It is also quite safe to walk or take a picnic along one of the meandering river beds and view Giraffe, Zebra,Wildebeest, etc.

Battlefield tours

iSibindi Zulu Lodge offers guided tours of the Anglo-Zulu battlefields. Tours must be pre-booked so that arrangements can be made with our preferred guides to take the tours. The chilling accounts of the battles of Rorke's Drift and Isandlwana present a deeper insight of the rich history in the area. Presented alongside the military narrative, a complete picture of the impact of the Anglo-Zulu campaign on both the Zulu and British nations is formed.

Zulu Culture and History

Isibindi Zulu Lodge offers the rare opportunity of learning about the Zulu culture and traditions as they remain in Zululand today. A Zulu Boma Dinner begins just as the sun starts setting, casting our hills in soft golden light. Guests are led down a narrow path to the beat of drums. As one emerges into a clearing coming across a historical Zulu umuzi (village) the dancing bodies of Zulu children make for a profound experience. The traditional dances and their role in Zulu history and culture is explained amid the energetic displays. A separate day trip to a Zulu Homestead gives guests a rare chance to experience the life of a rural Zulu family which has remained largely unchanged over the past hundred years since Shaka Zulu forged this mighty nation.

Fishing

The Buffalo River forms the eastern boundary of the reserve and provides some excellent fishing opportunities. Barbel and Yellowfish (Scaly) are both to be found in the river. Guests must bring all their own fishing equipment, including bait. Transport to the river is on foot (about a 5km walk) or by 4 x 4 vehicle.

Special activities for children and families, as well as picnics and bush breakfasts, can also be organised on request.

Daily tariffs are per person per night sharing and are fully inclusive of accommodation, 3 meals per day, teas/coffees, one daily game activity and a Zulu Boma Dinner (with traditional food, dancing and tour of Village) if staying two nights or more.

Please enquire for activity rates relating to Battlefield Tours and Zulu Homestead Visits.

Please note: A Special World Cup Rate of ZAR 1450 per person per night applies during the period 4 June to 18 July 2010.