The Drakensberg region in South Africa is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural richness. Stretching for 700 miles through two countries and five South African provinces, the Drakensberg Mountains offer a plethora of activities for all types of travelers. Here are the top things to do in the Drakensberg.
1. Visit Royal Natal’s Majestic Amphitheatre
The Royal Natal National Park is home to the Amphitheatre, a vast cliff face that is one of the most iconic landmarks in the entire Drakensberg region. Stretching for over three miles in length and standing some 4,000 feet tall, the Amphitheatre is a sight to behold. Visitors can admire the grandeur from the ground level or undertake a five-hour hike to the top of its highest peak, Mont-Aux-Sources, for a breathtaking view of the astonishing beauty of the region.
2. Climb to the Top of Tugela Falls
The Amphitheatre also houses the Tugela Falls, the second-tallest waterfall in the world. The waterfall boasts five free-leaping streams that combine to create a total drop of 3,110 feet. When in full flow, the waterfall is easily visible from the main road into the Royal Natal National Park. For a closer view, adventurous souls can hike to the top of Mont-Aux-Sources or opt for the easier Tugela Gorge route, which leads to the base of the falls.
3. Explore the Kamberg Nature Reserve Trails
Located in the foothills of the central Drakensberg, the Kamberg Nature Reserve offers a variety of short but scenic hiking trails. Many of these trails are centered around the reserve’s abundant San rock art, which spans a period of over 4,000 years. The 2-mile hike to Game Pass Shelter is particularly popular, providing access to some of the best-preserved rock art in the Drakensberg.
4. Discover More San Rock Art at Main Cave
For a deeper dive into the ancient artwork of the San people, a trip to Main Cave at Giants Castle Nature Reserve is a must. This sandstone shelter contains roughly 500 examples of San art, making it one of the largest rock art sites in Southern Africa. The paintings include depictions of people, sacred eland antelopes, and several human figures with animal heads, providing a fascinating insight into the beliefs and lifestyle of the San people.
5. Photograph the Vultures at Giants Castle
Wildlife enthusiasts and photographers will love a visit to the exclusive Lammergeyer Hide at Giants Castle. This spectacular hide is perched high in the mountains, offering an eye-level view of the Drakensberg’s mighty bearded vultures as they come in to feed on bones left out for them. Other raptors such as endangered Cape vultures, jackal buzzards, and other species also frequent the area.
6. Hike the Giant’s Cup Trail
For serious hikers, the self-guided Giant’s Cup Trail is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. This trail begins at the Sani Pass and winds its way for almost 37 miles through the southern foothills of the Maloti-Drakensberg Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trail is the only multi-day hike in the Drakensberg that provides hutted accommodation for all five nights along the way.
7. Challenge Your 4×4 Skills on the Sani Pass
The Sani Pass is a legendary 4×4 route that traverses the mountains between Underberg in KwaZulu-Natal and Mokhotlong in Lesotho. The route ascends to over 9,400 feet via a series of hair-raising gravel switchbacks. At the top of the pass, you can celebrate your survival with a pint in the Highest Pub in Africa, located at Sani Mountain Lodge.
8. Climb to the Top of Cathedral Peak
Cathedral Peak is one of only a handful of free-standing peaks separated from the rest of the escarpment by thousands of years of erosion. Its perfect triangular shape makes it an easily recognizable Drakensberg landmark. The journey to the 9,855-foot summit is a challenging one, but the panoramic views from the top make it worth the effort.
9. Book a Tasting at Cathedral Peak Wine Estate
If climbing to the summit of Cathedral Peak sounds too strenuous, you can enjoy the view from ground level at the scenic Cathedral Peak Wine Estate. Founded in 2007, the vineyard offers a variety of wines, from sauvignon blanc to blanc de noir. Wine tastings are offered every day except Tuesday, and you can pair your tasting with one of the estate’s artisan cheese platters.
10. Explore Drakensberg History at Himeville Museum
The Himeville Museum provides a comprehensive overview of Drakensberg’s history. Its exhibits range from Stone Age fossils and prehistoric San artifacts to displays explaining the arrival of the European settlers and the impact of the Anglo Boer War and both World Wars.
11. Meet the Rehabilitated Raptors of Falcon Ridge
Falcon Ridge is a rehabilitation center for rescued wild and captive birds of prey. Here, visitors can see and photograph iconic African birds, including the African fish eagle, the endangered Cape Vulture, the secretary bird, and the spotted eagle owl at close quarters.
12. Attend a Drakensberg Boys Choir Concert
The Drakensberg Boys Choir School is a unique institution that uses choral music to build a unique education. The choir is one of the finest and most prestigious school choirs in the world. Public concerts are held every Wednesday and Saturday during term time, covering everything from classical choral songs to indigenous South African music.
13. Fish for Trophy Yellowfish at Sterkfontein Dam
For avid fishermen, the Sterkfontein Dam is the ultimate destination. The dam is famous for its healthy population of trophy small and largemouth yellowfish. The peak fishing season runs from October to January.
In conclusion, the Drakensberg region offers a diverse range of activities that cater to all types of travelers, from nature lovers and history buffs to adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts. Whether you’re hiking up majestic peaks, exploring ancient rock art, or savoring local wines, the Drakensberg promises an unforgettable experience.
