Join us on a 14km walk from Isandlwana battlefield along the Fugitives Trail, following in the footsteps of the British soldiers who fled along this route in an attempt to survive the battle. Hear the amazing tales of the men who struggled to escape the Zulu impi. The trail at times covers rough terrain and a crossing through the Buffalo river.

However, if you are moderately fit you be able to undertake this walk. The walk is accompanied by specialist battlefield guides who will recount events at certain parts along the trail and ensure you get to the end safely, where your vehicles will meet you.
 

Poster Fugitives Trail walk 2022.jpg

Friday 2 September 2022

• Evening at Dundee MOTH Shellhole with meal, historical talks, view the museum and briefing for the next day. Cash bar available.

Saturday 3 September 2022

8.00 meet at Talana Museum. There is secure parking for vehicles to be left for collection later.
8:30 Depart for Isandlwana.

• For drivers and those who not doing the walk there will be a special tour of sites around Isandlwana battlefield. Using your own vehicle please ensure that the driver is not doing the walk but participating in the special tour for non- walkers. If your entire group wishes to walk please advise on the booking so that we can assist you.
• On arrival brief introduction to the battle and the men who survived by fleeing along the route now known as the Fugitives Trail to the Fugitives Drift on the Buffalo river.
• The walking trail follows the route of the survivors, except for the last sheer rock face down to the river. For safety reasons we use a less dangerous route.
• Experience the terrain and try to imagine the terror of the soldiers struggling along this route being chased by the Zulu warriors.
• The loss of the guns at the Mzinyama river, the climb up the next ridge and across the boggy ground where John Brickhill lost his glasses, and the drop down to the Buffalo river. At the time the river was flowing strongly and in the current the colour of the 24Th Regiment was washed away down stream.
• After crossing the river walk up to where Lieut’s Coghill and Melvill lie in lonely splendour on their hillside.
• We then head for lunch at Rorkes Drift Hotel with its incomparable views over along the Buffalo river. After lunch we drive 800m to Rorkes Drift battlefield and here you will hear the story of the small garrison who fought off the Zulu impi all night.
• 11 Victoria Crosses were awarded to the defenders.

16:00 Depart for return to Dundee and Talana museum to collect your vehicles.

Sunday 4 September 2022

8:30 - 11:30 Visit to Talana battlefield and museum with a specialist guide who will bring the story of the battle alive, as well as the stories of many of the exhibits on display. This museum has exhibits in 24 buildings – do not expect to visit them all as time might not permit.

You are now welcome to spend more time in the museum, have a quick lunch at Miners Rest before travelling back to your homes, having had an amazing weekend where you have walked where history happened.

Booking Details

• Tariff of R795 per person includes: Visits to Isandlwana, Rorkes Drift, guided walk along Fugitives Trail, Specialist guides, All entrance fees .Friday evening meal and Saturday lunch. Guided visit to Talana museum and battlefield.
• Bring a hat, jacket, walking stick, sun screen and comfortable walking shoes. The weather is very changeable at the moment so ensure you have cool and warm clothing.
• Booking forms available below this notice or on www.talana.co.za
• It is advisable to book in advance for the Sunday buffet lunch, which is not included in the weekend tariff. Contact 082 655 5937