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You are here: Home > Search Venues > KwaZulu-Natal > Midlands > Isandlwana > Isandlwana Lodge > About
About Isandlwana Lodge Conference Venue in Isandlwana, KwaZulu-Natal
 Isandlwana Lodge has been welcoming travellers since 1999 and affords them an unforgettable experience in a breathtaking setting, where history is brought to life and guests are given an insight into the "People of Heaven"... the Zulus. The land on which the Zulu people built their homes borders on the ground where the Zulu warriors defeated the British Army in the Battle of Isandlwana on the 22nd of January, 1879. Isandlwana Lodge is built against the Nqutu Plateau, which overlooks this battlefield. Fortunately, today there is no bloodshed, but instead the focus is on development and upliftment of the people of the Mangwe Buthunani Tribal Authority brought about through an agreement which is both extraordinary and unique. Two courageous American women, Maggie Bryant and Pat Stubbs, developers of Isandlwana Lodge, have been the catalyst for significant changes in the community which have enriched many lives. Through the generosity and help of The Wild Foundation, a US based non-profit organisation, in which Maggie Bryant has been involved for many years, there have been a number of new developments in the village of Isandlwana. Sewing and craft making, poultry production, natural gardening techniques and soil erosion reclamation work, business skills training and micro lending form part of their training projects. Several crafts groups are actively producing items for sale whilst many community gardeners, using tools donated by The Wild Foundation, help to feed hundreds of families. In addition, 17 000 tribal residents now have a water system which gives them access to purer water which is closer to some homesteads than the pumps where women and children had previously gone to fetch water. Whilst there is not yet running water in each home, the possibility has been brought a step closer by this initiative, made possible through the help of public and private funding. Visitors to Isandlwana Lodge not only partake in the dramatic battlefield tours where history is brought to life by Historian Rob Gerrard but, also in keeping with the spirit of the community, they can observe life of an authentic Zulu village by means of a Zulu Village Safari. On a cultural walk, traditions and cultures will be explained as a first hand experience. A traditional Zulu homestead, a sangoma, the village schools, clinic or historic St. Vincent's Church will be visited and guests will understand why a growing number of international guests have been inspired to make gifts of cash, school books and supplies and contribute to children's school fees and clothing. After an enchanting experience, guests will leave Isandlwana Lodge with unforgettable stories and the drumbeat that echoes through the hills of this remarkable place in the heart of Zululand.
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