Simunye Zulu Lodge

An Authentic Zulu Village in KwaZulu Natal

Nov 21, 2008 Corinne Westphal

At Simunye Zulu Lodge guests not only see, but experience and live the richness of Zulu culture.

An overnight visit to Simunye Zulu Lodge leaves all thoughts of day-to-day life behind. It begins with a drive up to the Trading Post Store and a warm Zulu greeting, “Sawubona!” Guests then choose their preferred mode of transportation, either 4x4, ox-cart or horseback, and ride into the enchanting Mfule River Valley. This is the territory of the Biyela Clan, blood relatives of Zulu Royal house and the proud Simunye hosts from the area.

The Zulu village experience begins with a traditional entry. Guests learn their first words of isiZulu, when they must announce their arrival to the Inkosi, village chief. He, in turn, will welcome visitors in isiZulu to his village.

Sitting around a fire, the first offerings come. This may include an invitation to taste meats prepared over an open fire as well as the famous sorghum and maize-based Zulu beer. Following, a group of young dancers with traditional colorful garb, spears and shields demonstrate the fiery, rhythmic Zulu warrior and hunter dances. Accompanied by pulsating drums, and melodious music and singing, guests unconsciously sway with the music and even the shyest cannot help but rise when asked to join in the foot-stomping spectacle.

Having worked up an appetite, guests return to the lodge restaurant area for an extensive buffet of dishes inspired by local favorites and traditions. Afterwards, some guests opt for a shoulder massage, others a nightcap sitting by the stream. Later, a torch-bearing escort will lead guests back to the beautifully appointed rooms.

The next morning, a traditional Zulu guitar or drums wake guests. Coffee and rusk - a dry, sweetened biscuit -- is delivered to tide everyone over until the English-styled buffet breakfast is served. There’s still much to discover first.

The morning return to the Zulu village area offers a more in-depth look at Zulu traditions and life. Included might be demonstrations and an opportunity to participate in spear-making and throwing and crushing of corn for Zulu beer. Some rituals of the Sangoma, the village healer or shaman, are revealed as well as traditions in coming-of-age ceremonies, love, courtship and marriage. Typical Zulu craftwork of basketry and beadwork are available for viewing and sale.

A second day/night experience is currently being added to the offering. Guests can choose from a variety of activities including walks, hikes and picnics to view historical sites or to learn more about medicinal plants and natural features of the valley, a Zulu theater performance or animal mythology presentation or wile away hours at the Wellness Sanctuary and Night Spa.

The word“Zulu” means “heaven.” At Simunye Zulu Lodge you will understand why.

Accommodations

A variety of rooms are available at Simunye Zulu Lodge. From Rock Rooms built into the side of cliffs and traditional Rondavel, round, thatched huts built around the homestead, to lodge rooms and newly-added Africa Rooms, all accommodations offer modern facilities including electricity and private bathroom with shower. Each is uniquely crafted to immerse you in this other world.

Simunye recently added a conference and function facility that sits high above the cliffs, overlooking the village. It is available for group or corporate meetings or retreats and offers some unusual team-building activities based around African culture.

Getting There

Simunye is located approximately two-hours from Durban, near Melmoth. The final 12 kms (7.5 miles) is along an unpaved road; 4x4 is not necessary, but it is slow going.

The copyright of the article Simunye Zulu Lodge in Sub-Sahara Africa Travel is owned by Corinne Westphal. Permission to republish Simunye Zulu Lodge in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.