Fugitives' Drift Lodge and Guesthouse are simple and charming retreats with eight cottages and six rooms respectively, very close to the sites of two of the most famous battlefields in the history of the South African wars, Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift.
Immerse yourself in the history of the Anglo-Zulu War
Listen to one of South Africa’s best story tellers
Enjoy the Fabulous views of Isandlwana Mountain
Experience the new graded bike trails
Family and owner-run Fugitives' Drift Private Reserve offers a unique experience combining wildlife with rich South African history. The accommodation is in comfortable en-suite cottages and the lodge has lovely views of Isandlwana Mountain. The Buffalo River is a short walk away.
Game viewing can be done on foot, in vehicles or on horseback, with opportunities to see several species of animals including giraffe, zebra and kudu. The bird life is prolific and there have been 275 species identified in the gorge below the lodge. Fishing is also a great pastime and the unspoilt surroundings are the perfect place to unwind.
However, the best reason to come here is for the incredible talks given by Andrew Rattray and his team of guides (or rather story-tellers) about two of the most famous battles of the Anglo-Zulu wars.
There is a colonial feel to both the lodge and the guesthouse and guests all dine together, hosted by guides and managers, with dinner very often involving a traditional British roast.
An excellent library has recently been built in memory of the late David Rattray, owner of Fugitives' Drift Lodge, entomologist and the originator of these incredible talks. There are stunning views from the balcony, where guests often take lunch, as well as plenty of space to curl up with a book and internet access for guests.
When to visit
Take the Isandlwana tour before the Rorke's Drift tour on the same day to get the full benefit of the talks.
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Fugitives' Drift Lodge is set on a hillside above the Buffalo River Gorge in the Natal Battlefields, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The 2500ha reserve is 8km from Rorke's Drift and 56km south east of Dundee.
11-hour international flight to O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. Drift Lodge is approximately 5-hours drive from Johannesburg, alternatively it's a 3 to 4-hours drive from Durban.
South Africa Uncovered
Feel on top of the world as you road-trip through the Drakensburg Mountains, passing jaw-dropping scenery. Take to the trails on mountain bikes, go wild swimming in beautiful dams and waterfalls and hike through vast vistas, learning about the Anglo-Zulu battle in the heart of the Drakensburg. Track white rhino on foot with a renowned guide and explore the massive sand dunes and wetlands of St Lucia. This trip is ideal for second timers to Africa, wanting something truly unique.
Rorke's Drift Tour
Listen at sunset as this tour follows the famous story of Rorke's Drift. Following on from the Isandlwana morning tour, you'll learn of how the remaining British fell back to the mission station to protect the church and hospital.
