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- Shakaland -

Map showing Shakaland's location in South Africa, click here for South African map and info.Shakaland is a Zulu cultural village and hotel located in rural interior of KwaZulu-Natal between Eshowe and Melmoth, approx. 150km from Durban. The Shakaland familyIt gets its name from the legendary King Shaka of the Zulu's and is perched on the top of the Entombeni Hills, overlooking the Umhlatuze Lake.

This area is in the heartland of Zulu culture and the perfect place to explore the traditional Zulu lifestyle. The village was custom built as set for the movies Shaka Zulu and John Ross. It authentically recreates a traditional Zulu "Umuzi" or homestead, divided into the home of the resident Zulu staff and hotel rooms.

The whole visit to Shakaland is a cultural experience. But to ensure that you get the best possible introduction to Zulu culture a cultural programme is followed (four times a day). On arriving at the village you will be greeted by a Zulu warrior "guarding" the entrance to their homestead. A visitor tries her best to balance a small Zulu pot on her headDuring the rest of the 3-hour programme you'll be introduced to the chief of the clan, the layout of a typical Zulu kraal (family dwelling) will be explained to you and traditional beer making and assegai (spear) making will be explained and illustrated to you.

You will be introduced to traditional pottery and bead crafts, you'll see how Zulu maidens balance pots on their heads and will get an opportunity to try it yourself! Those who are interested will enter the hut of a Sangoma (traditional healer). The programme is rounded off by an exhilarating traditional dance show. A traditional Zulu clay potAll the while you are hosted by a Zulu guide knowledgeable on Zulu history, tradition and customs.

Most visitors then head for a meal in the on-site restaurant serving traditional African dishes. While you will have the chance to be adventurous in what you sample there is something for all tastes and preferences and you won't go home hungry. There's also a bar for pre- or post meal drinks.

The Shakaland Hotel* makes for an enjoyable and educational overnight stop as it includes the cultural programme discussed above. If your itinerary allows we strongly recommend staying overnight.


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