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  INFORMATION:
   ABOUT THE BATTLEFIELDS 

 
Province: KwaZulu Natal
Region: Battlefields
Route: Battlefields Route

CULTURE AND HERITAGE ROUTES
PROVINCE: KWAZULU-NATAL
ROUTE: BATTLEFIELDS ROUTE (Page 1-6)

ROUTE 6: RED SOLDIER’S MARCH

This land is ancient. Sketches, paintings, engravings and tools of the San testify to an early and long occupation. By the 18^th Century, tribesmen had given this area the name “Honey Mountains”, for life was sweet indeed.

A lofty world of vast panoramas, this area can claim many titles:  “No Man’s Land”, “The Turbulent Frontier”, “Crossroads of South African History”, “Land of the Covenant”, “Land of forts”, “Land of Missions”.

Destiny marched with men along these winding roads and through its steep, narrow passes where bloody battles were fought between Zulu, Boer and Brit. Boer confronted Zulu in 1838 and broke King Dingane’s impis at Blood River. Proud Imperial Britain bit the dust at Isandlwana on 22 January 1879. The same day its reputation was to be salvaged at Rorkes Drift in a single engagement that resulted in 11 Victoria Crosses being awarded- the highest number for one military encounter.

The initial battles of the Anglo boer War of 1879 are world-renowned. However, there are more, not as well known, but as interesting to visit. At Fugitives Drift you will find the memorial to Lts Coghill and Melvill, who saved the Colours. From there you will have a view down into the Buffalo River Valley where the survivors from Isandlwana struggled to cross the swollen river. Make your way with a guide to the heights of Hlobane, not only a battlefield but with a tremendous history of coal mining. At the centre of this route, Dundee has a varied history which is depicted in the impressive Talana Museum, set in a 20-acre heritage park on the outskirts of the town. History has been brought alive by various evocative museums on this site. You can hire the resident museum guide to take you around on an unforgettable tour which brings the events of yester-year alive. 

Follow in the footsteps of red and khaki-clad soldiers. Hire a guide or do it yourself.

TOWNS & REGIONS
GAME AND NATURE RESERVES
BOOKS AND MAPS
HERITAGE SITES  
ROUTES AND MEANDERS
ADVENTURE AND SAFARIS
ITINERARIES

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