During King Shaka`s rule Coward`s Bush was the spot where suspected cowards had their courage and resolve tested.....while defeated soldiers were executed at this same place. The spot is now flagged for visitors by the presence of a National Monument Council plaque at an old Kei apple tree.

A fine collection of Zulu arts and crafts is housed at Vukani Museum and Fort Nonqai is now an excellent museum housing a great number of Zulu cultural items, one of which is a replica of the beer mug Queen Victoria gave to King Cetsh.

The town, lying on a plateau and thus protected from the subtropical humidity of surrouding areas, was proclaimed a magistracy in 1887 upon Zululand's annexation by Britain and became the capital of Zululand. It has since lost this status but has grown to support a 1 800km agricultural district.

Activities

Coward's Bush
A memorial near KwaBulawayo marks the spot where Shaka had defeated soldiers executed and those suspected of cowardice tested.

Dlinza Forest
A 200ha forest next to the town, offering pleasant walks and trails, with the only aerial boardwalk in the Southern Hemisphere.

Entumi Nature Reserve
A magnificent indigenous forest, home to many bird and animal species.

Fort Nonqayi
A three-turreted fort established 1883. Home to the Zululand Historical Museum, wherein the area's fascinating cross-cultural history is told.

Goedetrouw Public Resort
Fishing and picnic conditions are ideal at this tranquil resort 13km north of the town.

KwaBulawayo
The isiZulu name for 'place of the presecuted one'. This kraal, big enough for 12 000 warriors, can be seen on the crest of a hill. A monument marks the site.

Ocean View Game Park
A scenic park containing two memorials to warrior-king Shaka.

Vukani Museum
A small museum in the town centre housing wonderful examples of Zulu handiwork, including pottery, basketry, beadwork and tapestries.