Fugitive's Drift

The Battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift

Episode 13: No other place seems to have played as pivotal a role in the history of South Africa as that of KwaZulu-Natal. Specifically, the battlefields region around Dundee. All three powers of the early South Africa met here – the Boer and Zulu in the 1830s, British and Zulu during the Anglo-Zulu war of 1879, and British and Boer during the late 1800s/early 1900s. This area formed the meeting point between three nations’ territories – British Natal, Boer Transvaal and Zululand, home to the powerful Zulu nation.

We've have been interested in the early history of South Africa for quite some time. When we saw our route would lead us straight into the heart of the KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields region we couldn’t resist a stop. We were given the opportunity to join the Fugitives’ Drift Lodge for tours of the Anglo-Zulu battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift.

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Isandlwana & Rorke's Drift 22nd January 2019

Our stay at Fugitives Drift Lodge on 22nd & 23rd January 2019, for the 140th Anniversary of these battles, immortalised in the films Zulu Dawn and Zula.

Fugitives drift-YouTube sharing.mov

Fugitives drift lodge gateway to the battlefield tours of Rorks' Drift and Isandlwana where the British forces lost and won two epic battles against the mighty Zulu army in the Anglo Zulu wars of 1879

B(Rorkes Drift) company Op herrick 13

just a brief summary of B(Rorkes Drift) company 2 Royal Welshs' tour of Afghanistan Op Herrick 13

Fugitives' Drift Lodge and Guest House Near Rorke's Drift

A short video introducing Fugitives' Drift, made famous by David and Nicky Rattray. Fugitives' Drift is near Rorke's Drift and offers spell-binding, emotive tours to the battlefields of Rorke's Drift and Isandlwana.

Rorke's Drift Hotel - Accommodation Battlefields South Africa - Africa Travel Channel

Cradled within the dramatic landscapes of the KwaZulu Natal Battlefields, The Rorke’s Drift Hotel welcomes guests with chic sophistication mixed with warm African hospitality.

This beautiful hotel is the perfect option for guests who wish to explore the many historical sites along this world famous tourism destination in comfort and style.

The stunning views from the hotel’s main deck stretched for miles upon miles over the majestic Buffalo River and beyond into the ancient Kingdom of the mighty Zulu People.

Venture out and explore the historical battlefields of Isandhlwana and Rorke’s Drift where the tide of war raged in the Anglo-Zulu wars and helped shaped the nation that was to become South Africa.

Experience the unique location of the hotel, saddle up and wonder in amazement at the natural beauty of your surroundings. Early morning walks are a great way to work up an appetite that can be nourished with a delicious home made breakfast.

The Indaba hub provides a wonderful array of options for romantic weddings, conferences and corporate events, to intimate private functions.

The Kwa Jim bar is the perfect place to relax with a sundowner and savor the stunning sunset before heading over to the Shiyane restaurant for a delectable dinner.

Accommodation at the hotel is a wonderful eclectic mix of Zulu culture and modern style. Various room options are available to cater to your every wish.

Rorke’s Drift Hotel offers guest a unforgettable experience in the heart of the battlefields Route.

Fugitives Drift - Post Refurb - Power & Passion!!

A short video showcasing Fugitives Drift Lodge post refurb and outlining the art of storytelling on the world famous Kwa-Zulu Natal battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorkes Drift.

Andrew Rattray Interview Fugitives Drift by @Uyaphi

Andrew Rattray Interview Fugitives Drift, best pricing available.

We speak today with Andrew Rattray, the latest Rattray to take the reins at Fugitives Drift in Zululand. Thank you Andrew for the time taken as well as the patience you showed.

Fugitives' Drift Lodge | KwaZulu-Natal | South Africa

The Rorke's Drift Trip 2015

Douglas Rattray of Fugitives Drift

I am a professional Battlefield Guide and story teller based at Fugitives Drift Lodge in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. I specialise in the battles of Rorke's Drift and Isandlwana fought on the 22nd and 23rd of January 1879 between the Imperial forces of the British Empire and the Zulu Kingdom.

Rorkes Drift Guest Lodge Accommodation KwaZulu Natal South Africa - Africa Travel Channel

BOOK NOW: Rorke's Drift Lodge has a four star rating, and is poised on the side of the Sinqindi Mountain, which boasts spectacular views over Zululand and the mountains in the distance.
The unexpected hidden gem of the area is the wide open plains, with its deep sense of Africa.

Rorke's Drift Today: A Guide to the Battle

September 2014. Here 'Dalton' our Zulu guide explains the events of that fateful day on the historic site of the battlefield itself. HD video shot with a hand-held

Melvill & Coghill at Fugitives' Drift - Fugitives Drift Lodge

Buffalo River - Northern KZN - Feb 2014 - Narrator: Lt Col Terry Leaver (Ret.) and CAS le Hane

South Africa - fugitives drift

Fugitives' Drift Lodge | KwaZulu-Natal | South Africa

Fugitives Drift

RORKE'S DRIFT 1879 - AGAINST ALL ODDS

The story of history's most famous rearguard action, The story of the extraordinary events of January 22nd 1879 has never lost any of its fascination. The defence of Rorke's Drift by a handful of British redcoat soldiers provides history with a tale of incredible courage and valour, qualities displayed by the brave men of both sides who fought to the death on that momentous day. While Britain cheered its heroes, she also plotted a merciless revenge on the Zulu nation. Featuring extensive re-enactment action footage and dramatised 'eye-witness' accounts of the battle, this DVD tells the story of the British soldiers who successfully defended Rorke's Drift against more than 4000 Zulu warriors. It also includes period images and photographs, computer graphics and expert comment from Ian Knight, one of the world's leading authorities on the Zulu Wars. Narrated by Hu Pryce.
Available to buy from:

Rorkes Drift

A talk by Dalton a direct descendant of the Zulu Chief at the time of the battle. For more about Dalton and his visit to South Wales see

Ian Knight Talk 17th September 2011