Tours - South Africa

(shaka) zulu-sites

introduction

Without a doubt, King Shaka is the best known and most populair Zulu who ever existed. Despite countless books and writings, even mini-series, Shaka remains a mythical person who falls among the most impressive generals but also among those who became known as a bloodthirsty tiran. What is certain is that with his new form of war, he defeated countless other tribes and built up the largest Zulu empire that has ever existed. He changed tactics and technique and let his soldiers practice this to the sorrow with success. In 1828 Shaka was murdered by his own half-brothers who raised up and fought for power together afterwords. The Zulus battled first after the death of Shaka with each other, after which they collided with the Boers (in 1838). In 1879 a cruel war was waged with the British when the empire was annexed.

Kwadukuza (Stanger)

In July 1825 Shaka Zulu sets up his capital and royal residence in Kwadukuza (Stanger) and it was also here that his (alleged) half-brothers Dingaan and Mhlangane killed him in 1828. Dingaan would then take over the power. The "Shaka Memorial Gardens" (Cooper street) consists of a memorial (stone) in 1932 here placed above Shaka's burial chamber which was originally a grain pit. Nearby would be the spot where Shaka sharpened his spears. Every year a big ceremony is held here in honor of the great king, where thousands of Zulu's come up in traditional clothing, spears - it is Shaka day. Kwadukuza (or Stanger) is located exactly between Richards Bay and Durban (Natal) and it is not that difficult to get here by (public) transport. It is located on the busy N2 which is parallel to the coast.

Eshowe

Eshowe was the city where four Zulu kings resided; Shaka, Mpande and Cetshwayo, (Dinizulu); this was also the place where (in Dlinza forest) Shaka kept his wives hidden during the Zulu wars. It was Cetshwayo's fortress before he went to Ondini; also this one was totally destroyed during the war with the British. The Brits built in 1883 the fort "Nongqayi" as police station for the barefoot Zulu police (the Nongqayi) who had to assist the British in an emergency case. Eshowe became the new administrative center of the newly acquired British area.

In the forest you can make beautiful walks and it is claimed that some paths were built by British soldiers when they had the power here. The "Nongqayi" fort with its three towers, which is also situated in the forest, now serves as "The historical museum Zululand". Next to it is the "Vukani Zulu cultural museum where you can view Zulu art based on the traditional Zulu culture. Finally, there is a butterfly garden. You can buy a combi ticket. SEE Travel stories Eshowe. If you travel by public transport you can best come to Eshowe from Empangeni on the busy N2 (near Richard's Bay). From here you can drive to Eshowe in an hour with a combi (55R).

"Nkwalini" Valley

In "Kwabulawayo" (Shaka's kraal) was once Shaka's capital. "Coward's Bush" - this was the place where Zulu warriors who had lost their spear in battle or had wounds in their back were executed; here is a small memorial. Kwabulawayo lies with "Cowards Bush" which lies opposite, between the through paved roads R34 and R66, on the R230. To my knowledge, not accessible by public transport.

Shaka-land

This project was built because of the TV series of "Shaka Zulu" in the late 80's. Since then it has been a kind of Disney like area where a 3 to 4 hour tour is given (Nani experience) including lunch and dance. It is suggested that the best Zulu dance in the country is given here. Shakaland is located 14 km south of Eshowe towards Empangeni on Route 66. From the mainroad you will have to walk another 3 kilometers which is dangerous. Taxi drivers want to bring you from Eshowe for 150R (you can bargain to 130R). Otherwise you will have to go with a tour.

Entrance: 450R

Website: www.shakaland.com

Valley of the Kings (Emakhosini Ophathe Heritage Park)

In the Royal Valley are the great kings Nkhosinkulu, Senangakhona (father of Shaka), Dingaan and Mpande) and Dinizulu buried; in the military camp "Mgungundlovu" (capital of Dingaan from 1829 to 1838) the Dutch Piet Retief and other prominent (negotiators) Voortrekkers were murdered by the Zulus. This was the main reason the fierce Boer-Zulu war broke out in 1838. Nowadays you can see a memorial of Piet Retief where he would be buried (R34). There is a designated sign where the big hut of Dingaan would have stood. There are plans for a museum (www.emakho.sini.co.za). Finally, there is a large Zulu memorial (the soul of eMakhosini) a little further on. This valley lies on the road from Melmoth in the direction of Freedom (R34), a few kilometers after crossing Ulundi follow the sign till where you leave the road. Then it is another 5 kilometers to the actual site. This site can not be reached by public transport.

Gingindlovu

After the battle of Ndonkdakusuka in 1856, in which the future Zulu king Cetswayo (then prince) defeated his brother, he built a military camp which he called Gingindlovu (elephant snake); this because he saw his brother as the biggest opponent. Nowadays here is the gathering point of people for the "Shembe" church in Judea behold what a traditional togetherness is (is seen as culture highlight of the Zulus).

Tomb of King Cetshwayo

King Cetshwayo was captured by the British and taken to Cape Town. Later he was recalled because the situation in Zululand became totally out of control because of the many wars. When the king was finally released, the disintegrated kingdom of the Zulus was no longer a threat to the British empire. The British could draw their attention to the Boeren (farmers). The grave is still under the management of the "Shezi" community. The road there is pretty poorly indicated and if you want to go here (the grave is still there) the use of a local guide is advised.

Ladysmith

You can see parts of an old Zulu fortress which is now part of the new police station. It is possible to take a taxi to Ladysmith from Newcastle in an hour.