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Fugitives' Drift Lodge

An immersive experience into the history of the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879.

Cost Per Night

Perfect For

Adults, couples and families

Why we love it

There is so much on offer at Fugitives’ Drift that even those less captivated by history will struggle to get bored. The Battlefield Kids programme is perfect to keep the young ones entertained and inspired whilst parents enjoy their stay to the fullest.

Owned by the Rattray family and set in a 5000-acre game reserve with 22km of river frontage, Fugitives’ Drift provides an immersive experience into the fascinating history of the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879. This Natural Heritage Site overlooks both famous battle sites of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. The reserve, with no dangerous game, is perfect for exploring on foot or by mountain bike and offers some of the most spectacular views overlooking Zululand. The Buffalo River borders the property and is a perfect for both swimming and fishing. A few hundred meters from the lodge lie the graves of Melville and Coghill, who were the first men in history to be awarded posthumous Victoria Crosses, after unsuccessfully attempting to save their Regimental Colours. Led by exceptional guides,thought-provoking and often emotionally charged tours are conducted daily to the battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift.

Fugitives’ Drift offers 10 luxury suites at the Lodge with stunning views towards Isandlwana. The main building has been tastefully decorated with a bar, dining area and lounge, and adjacent to the reception the Fugitives’ Drift Museum houses a large amount of memorabilia from the Anglo-Zulu war.

A further 6 rooms are available at the Guesthouse, where the main building is a colonial style farmhouse and has recently been renovated to an exceptional standard.

Call us on +44 117 313 3300 to start planning your holiday, we’re looking forward to hearing from you

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The Accommodation

Fugitives’ Drift Lodge is the most luxurious of the accommodation options, with each spacious en-suite room boasting both inside and outside showers, air-conditioning, a mini-fridge and private verandas with immaculate views over the plains. There is plenty of space to accommodate families and a delightful swimming pool with fantastic views overlooking Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. A short stroll from the main building stands the Harford Library, where lunch is sometime served. With its panoramic views onto the Buffalo River Gorge, it’s a great spot to read a book or relax with a cup of tea. In addition to this, the Fugitives’ Drift Museum showcases a selection of pictures, newspaper cuttings and artefacts collected by and donated to the Rattray family over the years.

Formerly a farmhouse, Fugitives’ Drift Guesthouse is decorated in a simple African style, with the spacious, en-suite rooms leading off the well-tended garden. Although simple, the rooms are very comfortable and have views over the reserve, where you can often see plains game grazing. The Guesthouse also offers a refreshing pool and a glorious outside dining area.

Facilities

Facilities include WiFi, A/C, pool, bar and lounge. There is also the Fugitives’ Drift Museum and Harford Library both containing books and artefacts relating to the Anglo-Zulu War.

Dining

Dining is usually served in the restaurant at the main building but can also be enjoyed overlooking the stunning views of the Buffalo River at the Harford Library.

Why Wayfairer

The Rattray family are committed to ensuring that this Natural Heritage Site and captivating history is preserved for generations to come. Over the years, David and Nicky have put together one of the finest collections of books, papers, and artwork pertaining to the Zulu War. In 1999, David was awarded a Ness Award for his contribution in widening the understanding of this area and its people. Since his death, the David Rattray Foundation (now known as Khula) has supported thousands of impoverished children in the greater Rorke’s Drift area.