One of the most notable differences between the area and other destinations is the nature of the people who live in it. The Zulu culture is an intrinsic feature of the Elephant Coast that was once the hunting ground of the famous King Shaka.

Guests can purchase top quality carvings, beadwork and pottery at local craft markets, nearby the lodge.
Not to mention a wide variety of baskets (weaved from the leaves of the lala palm) that are internationally renowned.

Tours in the area offers guests fascinating insight into the diverse ethnic and cultural customs of the Zulu nation, applied in the past and present.

Witness their craftsmanship, see a traditional healer and architecture of a kraal design, or partake in the brewed shorghum beer and Zulu dancing, while learning about the rich history of the people.

Dumazulu village tour

Enjoy a 1,5 hour tour of a traditional Zulu village and a Zulu dancing show. The village is situated 10 minutes drive from the lodge.
Mondays to Sundays - start 8:00 11:00 & 15:15
R105.00 per person

Mbonise Cultural Concepts

Enjoy a 4 hour tour of a modern rural village and school. This includes some hiking. The tour departs from the game reserve (Memorial Gate), which is 10 minutes drive from the lodge.
Mondays to Fridays – start 09:00
R150.00 per person

Curio & Craft Markets

Ilala Weavers Craft shop & Museum
Zamimphilo Community Craft Market
Vukuzame Craft Center

The Zulu nation was born out of a mixture of the Nguni and Thonga people hundreds of years ago. Today still many local people live in dwellings built of the same materials their forefathers used, upholding the old traditions, and communities still live under the age old tribal system of Chiefs or aMakasi and headman aZinduna.

Tours will inform guests about the rich history of the people, about King Shaka who during his reign conquered and pacified a territory larger than Europe. Murdered by his brother, Dingaan, whose burial site is in the Hlatikulu Forest. There are also notable battle sites such as Ghost Mountain.