Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour in Durban, South Africa
Durban, South Africa

Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour

Outty Ranking 63 5.0 · 5 traveler reviews14 hoursFrom $245
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Outty Ranking

63/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 5 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour worth booking?

Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour is a 14-hour experience in Durban, South Africa, from $245 per person. It scores 63 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 5 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
63 / 100
Rating
5/5 (5)
Duration
14 hours
From
$245 per person

Relive the horror of the two most famous Anglo-Zulu War battles with a specialist Battlefield guide. Visit the eerie battlefield of Isandlwana, where British troops were massacred by the Zulu army in 1879, then continue to Rorke's Drift, where a handful of British soldiers heroically held a mighty Zulu regiment at bay, a battle made famous by the movie 'Zulu'. The tour winds through some of the most spectacularly beautiful scenery in KwaZulu-Natal. After a full day's touring, we return to Durban in the early evening.

What you get

    About this experience

    Relive the horror of the two most famous Anglo-Zulu War battles with a specialist Battlefield guide. Visit the eerie battlefield of Isandlwana, where British troops were massacred by the Zulu army in 1879, then continue to Rorke's Drift, where a handful of British soldiers heroically held a mighty Zulu regiment at bay, a battle made famous by the movie 'Zulu'. The tour winds through some of the most spectacularly beautiful scenery in KwaZulu-Natal. After a full day's touring, we return to Durban in the early evening.

    What's included

    Included

    • Bottled water
    • In-vehicle air conditioning

    What you'll see and do

    1. Rorke's Drift

      Relive the horror of the two most famous Anglo-Zulu War battles with a specialist Battlefield guide. Visit the eerie battlefield of Isandlwana, where British troops were massacred by the Zulu army in 1879, then continue to Rorke's Drift, where a handful of British soldiers heroically held a mighty Zulu regiment at bay, a battle made famous by the movie 'Zulu'. The tour winds through some of the most spectacularly beautiful scenery in KwaZulu-Natal. After a full day's touring, we return to Durban in the early evening.

      120 minutes here

    2. Isandlwana

      Relive the horror of the two most famous Anglo-Zulu War battles with a specialist Battlefield guide. Visit the eerie battlefield of Isandlwana, where British troops were massacred by the Zulu army in 1879.

      2 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Afro Zulu tours

    Know before you go

    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

    Photos

    Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour in Durban, photo 2Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour in Durban, photo 3Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour in Durban, photo 4Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour in Durban, photo 5Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour in Durban, photo 6Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour in Durban, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 5 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    4 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    4 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    1 mention

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Value for money

    1 mention

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Pace and timing

    1 mention

    Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

    Small groups

    1 mention

    The group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.

    Traveler reviews

    5 verified traveler reviews for Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    5
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    Denise_R · December 2024

    History Fan’s Ideal Day

    I am a history buff and was overjoyed to stand where such important heart-wrenching events took place. I could hardly believe I was standing in the very place where famous battles took place, and I could hear the details of what happened that day. Long drive but I was involved the whole time with the things I was seeing and the history I was learning. Zamanyi (sp?) was a cheerful and engaging driver/guide who told me much history and facts about life in South Africa. The local battlefield guide Tulani was marvelous, revealing the stories on all sides. We looked at and walked the battlefields (and graves) and visited two museums. I will never forget this adventure.

    via Viator

    Andrew_Y · November 2022

    This was a long tour but...

    This was a long tour but an absolutely rewarding experience. On the drive out to Rorke's Drift, the scenery was stunning and dramatic: Much of the drive was on dirt and gravel roads, but our driver Zamani was always careful and on our way there gave us extensive background history of the Zulu nation and other interesting facts. Once there, we were handed over to Tulani who is an expert in the battle tactics and positions of both sides. The visit included a drive to Isandlwana and museums at both sites. Tulani is passionate about his subject and brought it all to life. Many thanks to Zamani and Tulani for a very enjoyable and instructive day.

    via Viator

    jamalh589 · November 2022

    Visit to Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields

    I loved the commentary by the tour guide. He had a wonderful way of capturing the events leading up to and including the battles that brought the events to life as though they were happening before you.

    via Tripadvisor

    Malcolm_H · October 2022

    Battlefields tour

    What a great tour and one that i have wanted to do for a long time.Both the guide on the journey to the battlefields and the local guide on the site were excellent with the local guide having so much knowledge about the actual battles which brought it to life. A long day but defintely worth it

    Response from the operator: Thank you Malcolm .thank you you where great to host as well

    via Viator

    Markie-Post · June 2021

    Battlefields including Rorke’s Drift.

    I have travelled the world but neglected such a moving experience on my doorstep. I was privileged to join a small group 10-12 who had asked Rob Caskie to lead the tour to the battlefield. Rob’s ability to capture the events leading up to and during the battles; is simply amazing. His payoff line on his embroidered shirt is “Rob Caskie, engaging storyteller” and I can vouch for it. He tells is as it is, with the utmost respect to both sides. If you need somewhere to stay to keep the costs down, to look at Elandsview Guest Lodge. Phil is a wonderful host and gives you freedom to arrange your own schedule as it is self catering. During winter bring warm gear (5 - 13*c). During summer bring sun tan lotion.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    14 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $245 to $5,500
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    2
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Afro Zulu tours, who run 12 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 60.6.

    See everything Afro Zulu tours runs

    Why this scores 63

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)80
    Review evidence (18% weight)34
    Booking momentum (14% weight)26
    Value for money (12% weight)76
    Listing quality (10% weight)75
    Local standing (8% weight)59
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Durban.

    How much does Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour cost?

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    Prices start at $245 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Durban usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour take?

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    Plan for about 14 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Durban is not rushed.

    Is Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 63 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 5 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Durban, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 14-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour?

    +

    Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Durban can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Durban and add a light layer if any part of the 14-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Durban within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Durban?

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    On Outty we rank every Durban experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Culture Walking Tour of Durban, Sani Pass & Lesotho 4x4 Experience Day Tour from Durban, Luxury Canal Boat Cruise - Fun Things Durban Ushaka. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Durban?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Durban?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour?

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    Included: Bottled water; and In-vehicle air conditioning. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 99 listed pickup locations in and around Durban. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour offered in?

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    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour?

    +

    Across 5 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

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