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Zululand Region Of KwaZulu Natal
Spanning north from the mighty Tugela River as far as the borders of Mozambique and Swaziland,
lies the Zulu Kingdom (Zululand). This majestic and culturally rich
region exhibiting lush green vegetation, hills neatly planted with rows of
sugarcane and timber, unobtrusive homesteads and free roaming livestock was formerly
ruled by the formidable King Shaka, and played host to major historical battles
throughout the Anglo Zulu War. It was here where on the 4th July 1878, Lord
Chelmsford defeated the Zulu at Ulundi. Today, Zululand remains home to the proud Zulu nation and
local inhabitants live a somewhat agrarian lifestyle, many still subsistence
farmers living from the land however a few interspersed towns and cities
furnish the basic needs of the largely rural population.
The capital, Ulundi is a small town which honours fallen warriors through the Museums
and statues that have been erected there. A statue of King Shaka stands between the Legislative
Assembly and the Government Offices. The newly formed city of uMhlathuze,
(assuming city status on the 21st August 2001 and comprising the
original towns of Richards Bay, Empangeni, Esikhawini, Vulindlela, Felixton,
Nseleni and Ngwelezane) boasts a number of museums and cultural centres such as
the Empangeni Art And Cultural History Museum, Jabulani Crafts, Fort Nonqai, Vukani Museum, Cetshwayo's Death Place,
KwaBulawayo II – The Site of King Shaka's Military Base and many more for visitors to peruse.
Upliftment through Cultural Tourism is on the increase throughout the region and a number
of quaint shops and roadside stalls offer an array of traditional Zulu crafts and curios
including wooden and soapstone carvings, mats and beadwork for sale – the
handiwork is fast becoming very popular internationally.
A number of renowned Game parks, noted for their contribution to conservation both on a
micro and international scale are located in Zululand. The famous Hluhluwe–Umfolozi Park
has drawn attention through efforts made in saving the endangered white rhino. Other well
known parks include Tembe Elephant Park, Ndumo, Itala, Pongola, Mkuze and several others.
Many private game farms are also emerging making this region a nature
lover’s paradise. Discover creatures great and small. Home to the Big Five it is a popular destination for those
wishing to catch a glimpse of one of these majestic beasts. A vast number of
bird species can also be found here and twitchers ‘flock’ to the area
on a regular basis.
Zululand Accommodation
Accommodation in the area ranges from Bed and Breakfast establishments to Guest Houses, Game
Lodges and Hotels. Visitors can expect warm hospitality and royal treatment.
Activities throughout the region include game viewing, bird watching, cultural
tours, walking, fishing, 4x4 trails, horseriding and more …
Some of the Zululand region falls within the malaria belt and visitors
should exercise caution however the risk of Malaria is currently low. The
region is a summer rainfall area with temperatures reaching up to 38 degrees
Celsius during these months. During the winter months days are mild and dry.
Click here for Map of Accommodation in KwaZulu Natal
