Duck out of the rat race to enjoy nature’s clique

The beautiful birds of Dumazulu had Buhle Mbonambi in awe

THUNDERING ZULU

Dumazulu is taken from Laduma izulu which can either mean

“There is thunder and lightning” or “Be famous, Zulu tribe”. I found it fitting because inside the lodge is a functioning, authentic Zulu homestead, one that has been authenticated by King Goodwill Zwelithini kabhekuzulu.

It’s part of the tourist attraction, so for those who love learning more about Zulu culture and the way the tribes lived in the olden days, it’s a plus.

From traditional dancing and bead making, to spear welding and stick fighting, the community put on a show, depicting the way life was previously.

There’s a sangoma on site, so if you want to consult your ancestors, you could. I asked one of them if they lived there with their families. It turned out they all did. There’s a school nearby and children use communal transport to get there and back.

Arriving at the lodge, I was struck by how the accommodation also mirrored a traditional Zulu homestead but instead of simple huts, they painted them to represent the various cultures and tribes of southern Africa. From the colourful Ndebele painted hut to the more muted Zulu huts, it celebrated the different tribes of southern Africa which I’m certain is a big deal for foreign visitors who have never been exposed to rondavels.

It was an Instagrammable background and I regret not taking a picture with all the rondavels. The accommodation is simple and has basic amenities. Guests have the option of a standard or twin room and also a self-catering hut that sleeps four.

THE BIRDS – AGAIN

I spent most of my time outdoors and in the bird enclosure – probably more than I thought I would.

Ducks have never fascinated me before until I read about the Mandarin duck in Central Park. I shouldn’t be surprised though at their presence in Zululand. The area is a haven for birdlife.

I had friends who were in the bird-watching club (which induced eye-rolls from most of our friendship group). It didn’t dawn on me how fortunate I was to live in an area with a thriving and healthy bird life.

I’ve never realised just how vain birds are. Besides the ducks, I spotted parrots, swans and an emu. I spent 15 minutes waiting for a duck to stop peck-cleaning itself. Was it dirty or didn’t it want attention? I realised that many of the ducks kept their beaks under their wings, pecking.

As I walked through the park, I could see the different cliques. The swans preferred to chill together, taking pride of place as the most beautiful (and vain) birds in the enclosure. The parrots kept shrieking and the ducks clustered together.

If you love birds and are looking for something different, then you should enjoy this.

FAMILY

It’s an ideal spot for a family break from the city. It’s close enough to Durban, while also far away from the rat race. With the network coverage only great in certain places, it allows you to have your digital detox and a proper break from the outside world.

I get why New Yorkers were losing their minds over a duck.

It’s a pity they kept scurrying away before I could snap a selfie.