Indlondlo Cultural Village Scoops Golden Shield Heritage Awards.

Heritage is not just about the past, it is about the living, breathing traditions that shape our identity today. Few places embody this truth as beautifully as Indlondlo Cultural Village, nestled in the breathtaking Valley of 1000 Hills in KwaZulu-Natal.
In September 2025, Indlondlo proudly claimed the “Preferred Heritage Destination” Award at the prestigious 12th Annual Golden Shield Heritage Awards (GOSHA), hosted by the National Heritage Council of South Africa.

This award is more than a trophy, it’s a recognition of years of dedication to preserving, showcasing, and sharing Zulu culture with South Africa and the world.

A Star Rises from the Valley of 1000 Hills.

At the heart of Indlondlo is its vibrant cultural centre, where history, dance, and storytelling come alive. Best known for the internationally acclaimed Indlondlo Zulu Dancers, the village has long been a cultural beacon, welcoming visitors to experience authentic Zulu traditions through music, food, craft, and performance.

It was this living heritage that caught the attention of actress and filmmaker Portia Mncwane, who nominated Indlondlo for the award. Having witnessed their work and impact, she believed Indlondlo deserved the national stage—and her nomination paved the way for this remarkable achievement.

 

Why This Award Matters.

The Golden Shield Heritage Awards, held on 19 September 2025 at the Emnotweni Casino in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, shine a spotlight on individuals, organisations, and communities that champion South Africa’s cultural legacy.

By recognising grassroots champions and unsung heroes, GOSHA encourages nation-building and social cohesion through heritage. The awards are more than ceremonial, they are a call to protect what makes us uniquely South African.

Indlondlo’s win in the “Preferred Heritage Destination” category affirms its role as a vital custodian of Zulu traditions. It is not just a tourist attraction but a living classroom where heritage is taught, celebrated, and passed down.

 

A Celebration of Heritage Month.

Winning during Heritage Month 2025 adds even greater meaning. Heritage Month is a time when South Africans reflect on the values, traditions, and stories that connect us as a people. Indlondlo’s award symbolises what Heritage Month stands for: pride in our roots and a commitment to safeguarding culture for generations to come.

This year’s finalists also reflect the depth of South Africa’s cultural landscape, including Kedar Heritage Lodge, !Khwa Ttu San Culture, Hector Pieterson Museum, Sam Nzima, Dr Nothembi Mkhwebane, and many others. Together, they form a vibrant tapestry of voices keeping our heritage alive.

The Story Behind Indlondlo Cultural Village’s Success.

Every performance, every crafted artefact, every guided tour at Indlondlo tells a story. A story of resilience. A story of belonging. A story of culture shared with pride.

The Indlondlo Zulu Dancers are not just entertainers; they are Zulu Cultural Ambassadors. Through traditional dance and song, they carry forward the heartbeat of Zulu heritage. Visitors to the Zulu Cultural Village don’t just watch from afar, visitors are welcomed into an immersive journey of drumming, dancing, traditional cuisine, and oral history.

This commitment to authenticity is what sets Indlondlo apart. It is not heritage behind glass, it is heritage alive, engaging, and thriving.

An Invitation to Celebrate Together.

The National Heritage Council of South Africa reminds us that heritage is not static, it needs champions, custodians, and participants. The opening of nominations for the 2025 Golden Shield Heritage Awards is your chance to recognise the people, groups, and communities who keep our traditions alive.

Do you know someone who embodies the spirit of our heritage? A local hero, an artist, a cultural practitioner? Now is the time to nominate them and ensure their work is honoured on the national stage.

Together, we can ensure that our stories are not forgotten but celebrated. 

What’s Next for Indlondlo Cultural Village?

As Indlondlo celebrates this milestone, the journey continues. The award strengthens its position as a must-visit heritage destination, not just for tourists, but for every South African seeking to reconnect with their roots.

Visitors are encouraged to experience Indlondlo firsthand:

• Take part in a traditional feast.
• Watch the pulsating energy of the Zulu dancers.
• Walk through cultural exhibits that bring history to life.
• Engage with local artisans and take home a piece of authentic craft.

Every visit supports the preservation of heritage and sustains the community that keeps Zulu culture alive.

A Legacy of Zulu Pride.

As the curtains closed on the 2025 Golden Shield Heritage Awards, Indlondlo Cultural Village stood tall, not just as a winner, but as a reminder of what it means to protect and celebrate our culture.

Their journey from the Valley of 1000 Hills to the national stage shows us that when heritage is nurtured, it inspires. It heals. It unites.

Congratulations to Indlondlo Cultural Village, South Africa’s Preferred Heritage Destination 2025.

Let us continue to say with pride:
My Culture! My Roots!

✨ Plan your visit to Indlondlo Cultural Village today and be part of the living story of Zulu heritage.

https://indlondloculturalvillage.co.za/accommodation-the-valley-of-a-thousand-hills/