Inkunzi Cave and Zulu Hut Review

Inkunzi Cave and Zulu Hut Review

If you’re getting bored of staying in conventional hotels, and are looking for something different, something truly South African, then this place is a must-visit. Situated on a private property in the foothills of the Central Drakensberg mountains, where many of the larger, better-known resorts can be found, are the totally unique Inkunzi Cave and Zulu Hut, where we spent two nights.

The scenic road leading to the estate passes the magnificent Sterkfontein and Driekloof Dams, as well as lush green hills and valleys, and gushing rivers. We drove there on a rainy day and a rainbow hovered over the area for much of our drive, as if indicating that this was where the gold was hidden.

We were warmly welcomed by Steve, a well-known local artist who owns the property with his wife Estelle. Inkunzi is the Zulu word for Bull, which is their surname, and they live there too. Steve built and designed the units, and he showed us around, pointing out his artwork while sharing amusing anecdotes with us. In fact, he’s such a colourful character that his wife even compiled a book about some of his experiences, titled “A Load Of Bull – Anecdotes And Artwork From The Champagne Valley”. It made for entertaining reading material at the hut.

Our Zulu Hut

Inkunzi Cave was already booked out for the period we were visiting so we stayed in the Zulu Hut. While the cave was inspired by the San, who were the first people in South Africa, the Zulu hut features the traditional architecture of the Zulu people, with its iconic beehive shape and authentic cultural touches. Both have rock finishes inside and out, with rock paintings and carvings on the walls. To complete the African experience, the owners have even added on a special Squatter Shack called Diddly Squat!

Zulu Hut Bedroom

The Zulu hut consists of a bedroom and an open-plan living area with a fully-equipped kitchen, a seating area with a sleeper couch and a ladder leading to a single bed suspended from the roof.

Zulu Hut Living Area

The cave-like bathroom has a double shower and a gap in its roof, allowing water to flow in when it rains, creating the semblance of a waterfall. It was one of the most unusual bathrooms I’ve ever seen.

Zulu Hut Bathroom

Zulu décor is showcased throughout the hut including paintings, beadwork, shields and animal hides. The hut sleeps two people comfortably but can sleep up to five at a stretch, although that may become uncomfortable when confined indoors for long periods.

Zulu Hut Decor

The hut has a small garden area and a plunge pool. Inkunzi Cave has a bigger pool and there’s an even larger pool on the property, with stunning views of the mountains and valleys, which is available for guests to use.  However, you will need to carry your own swimming towels.

The accommodation may not be luxurious, but it is brimming with character and the views are sublime. On clear days, there are stunning views of the Champagne Castle mountain, the second highest peak in the Drakensberg, and the surrounding valley. The Drakensberg Boys Choir school is nearby and there are concerts every Wednesday afternoon during school terms. Other attractions and activities in the area include hiking, horse-riding, fishing, adventure sports, golf and a Bird of Prey Centre.

Steve Bull art at Macs Cafe

If you need to stock up on supplies, The Oaks Supermarket and Cedarwood Shopping Centre are both a short drive away. We had coffee and delicious brownies at Mac’s Café in Cedarwood Shopping Centre, which also stocks artworks by Steve.

For more information and to book, visit Inkunzi Cave and Zulu Hut.

See more things to do in Drakensberg.

Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 50 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.