PheZulu Safari Park, Durban, South Africa

Following the wild, rugged coastline along the Indian Ocean north of uber-chic Cape Town, with its silent discos and trendy cocktail bars, lies Durban—the country’s second-largest city. It’s also Zululand (or, officially, KwaZulu-Natal). At one time, this was the Zulu Kingdom, which rose to power under legendary warrior king Shaka Zulu—sometimes referred to as Africa’s Napoleon—who used military prowess to expand his territory. As travellers, we’re often looking for authentic experiences. Back in Shaka Zulu’s day, men were only allowed to get married after they “washed their spear” in the blood of the enemy. Some authentic experiences are, perhaps, better left in the past.

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