Excursion Valley of a thousand hills tour at Durban

Meet modern and olden day African tribal culture in the traditional and spectacular homeland of the Zulu on this half-day exploration of the 'Valley of a Thousand Hills'.

Depart the pier aboard your coach and drive via the national road for approximately one hour towards the Phezulu Safari Park. In this geographically wondrous part of the world shaped first by the windings of the great Mgeni River, then by the culture of the Zulu tribes and finally by the coming of European man, the hills still beat to the Zulu drum.

As you journey into the valley, learn how historically these tranquil rolling hills belie the blood-soaked drama that unfolded almost two centuries ago. It was then when the Zulu King Shaka, known to historians as the 'Black Napoleon', subjugated the tribes that today make up the Kingdom of the Zulu.

Your visit to Phezulu (an open-air museum) creates the opportunity to discover first-hand the intricacies, ethnic customs and beliefs of the Zulu people. Here Zulu tales and history are depicted in energetic, costumed song and dance by the renowned Gasa clan, who have been performing unique plays for over 40 years. Dances of courtship and betrothal, of the throwing of the Sangoma's (witch doctor) bones, of war and of birth, set to the mesmerising beat of the Zulu drum, take you into another world.

Afterwards, explore the Zulu cultural village on your own with its traditional beehive huts and fascinating glimpses into African tribal culture. Learn what the different coloured beads that adorn the skirts actually represent and how the women make bread and beer. Venture into Phezulu's impressive reptile park, taking home vivid images of some of Africa's most renowned snakes and learning about the crocodiles. Tea, coffee and refreshments are served during the course of the tour and there is time to browse through a wealth of ethnic home crafts on sale in the well-stocked curio shop, ranging from pottery, Zulu fabric art, woodcarving, beadwork and curios.

Following your visit, commence the return back to the pier in Durban via the national highway.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking and it is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Flat, comfortable walking shoes and sun hats are strongly recommended. There are paved pathways and some uneven, sandy terrain, where the show will be held. The ground can be muddy after heavy rainfall. There is a wooden boardwalk, with a few steps, through the snake & crocodile enclosure. The villagers at this open-air museum are actors educating guests with the ways of the traditional Zulu people. It is Zulu tradition for young, unmarried women to go topless. There is a local curio shop to purchase souvenirs, local currency or credit cards accepted.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Durban, 'Valley of a Thousand Hills', Phezulu Safari Park, Zulu Cultural Village, Witch Doctor, Reptile Park, Curio Shop, National Highway