KwaZulu-Natal is rich in Anglo-Zulu war history, where two of the most famous battles fought between the Zulu and British Armies, have taken place.  Visit the eerie battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift.

ISANDLWANA BATTLE 22 JANUARY 1879

On the 22nd January 1879, Lt. Colonel Pulleine was in command of 1774 British troops encamped on the eastern slope of Isandlwana. By 10am Pulleine had received a dispatch from Lt. Gen. Lord Chelmsford to break camp and move the entire contingent to Chelmsford’s location 13 miles southeast of Isandlwana. Tents were being struck, oxen hitched to wagons. At 12 o’clock the camp was attacked by 24-25 000 Zulu warriors, using the tactics of the horns of the buffalo. The Zulus totally surrounded the camp annihilating 1 329 British soldiers. Lt. Melvill gallantly attempted to save the Queen’s colour and was helped by Lt. Coghill whilst trying to cross the Buffalo River. Lts. Melvill and Coghill died in their attempt to save the colour and the honour of the regiment.

RORKE’S DRIFT 22-23 JANUARY 1879

The camp at Rorke’s Drift was a re-supply depot and included a hospital and store. Prior to the battle both hospital and store had been fortified as well as the rectangular area adjoining the two buildings. At about 4.30pm on 22 January 1879 this camp garrisoned by 139 British soldiers, of whom 36 were sick or wounded, was attacked by 4 500 Zulu warriors. The battle that took place was to last for eleven and a half hours before the Zulus were repulsed.  Eleven Victoria Crosses and five Distinguished Conduct Medals were awarded for valour.