Map of Zululand
Picture tour of this region
Tourism Associations
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Traditional Zulu homesteads are one of the major tourist attractions in KwaZulu-Natal, where traditional Zulu culture lives on in an environment which is truly ancient Africa.

The Zululand region abounds with wildlife in famous, extensive reserves within easy reach of Durban. The largest of these is the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Reserve where the white rhinoceros was rescued from extinction. A special treat is a night drive within the reserve with skilled rangers who point out never to be forgotten sights of nocturnal animals going about their business in the darkness. Visitors can also go for game walks in the reserve accompanied by experienced, armed rangers and have the opportunity of coming to within a few paces of rhinos, giraffe, buffalo, elephant and a range of other African animals.

zoom photo courtesy Tourism Durban

The area is rich in historical and cultural significance. It was here that Shaka forged his Zulu Kingdom, and the last battle of the Anglo-Zulu war was fought near Ulundi in 1879. Zulu kraals or villages in the region display the traditional Zulu way of life to visitors. There are several exciting traditional Zulu villages open to the public, Shakaland and Duma Zulu amongst them. Shakaland, for example, is built on the site of Shaka’s original kraal and was the location for the filming of the movie 'Shaka Zulu'. The village introduces the visitor to Zulu history, culture, even medicine and beer, and the traditional dancing is a show for all ages. A spectacular lunch is offered with western and traditional Zulu foods provided and visitors can even enjoy a luxery overnight stay in traditional Zulu beehive hut accommodation. These feature the traditional polished cow-dung floors, but they also offer comfortable beds and hot showers to a visitor pleasantly weary after a day in the African bush.