“ Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilised people are beginning to find out going to the mountains is going home; that wilderness is a necessity.” – John Muir.
The magnificent mountains that form the Drakensberg range are truly awe inspiring. Named after the Boer description, Dragon Mountains, they are known by the Zulu as the Barrier of Spears, uKhahlamba. It is largely unspoiled, long protected land to preserve its pristine beauty, its cultural wealth of San Bushmen paintings, wildlife and flora and it forms the source of many South African rivers. It runs for over 1000 km and rises to a height of 3482 m.
To holiday in this region is simply marvellous … crystal clear air, wonderful vistas in all directions, lush forests, gorges of beautiful rock colours, stunning sheer cliffs, waterfalls, bird and wildlife. All along the ‘Berg are well marked paths to hike and enjoy sparkling, transparent streams. The longest waterfall in the world drops impressively from the escarpment. Hikes range from short easy walks to challenges of varying levels of difficulty. It is possible to reach almost to the very top without climbing ropes and the sense of achievement given the elevation, is huge.
It is a place for the outdoors and it is a place to relax and catch up with yourself. Get there even if for a couple of days as it is the jewel in South Africa’s crown.
As the Drakensberg covers such a vast area, we have itineraries to help you under:
• The Southern Drakensberg Route
• The Central Drakensberg Route
• The Northern Drakensberg Route
There is also a fun half day Saunter Berg Tasting Route.
