things to do in the drakensberg

4 Ridiculously Fun Things to Do in the Drakensberg

Majestic mountain ranges. UNESCO World Heritage status. A ridiculous amount of hikes to conquer.

That's what you can expect and more when you jump in your car and visit the iconic Drakensberg Mountain range.

Need a little bit of inspiration for your adventure to the 'Berg? Here are some of the best things to do in the Drakensberg!


Hike Tugela Falls: The Highest Waterfall in Africa

chain ladders at tugela falls hike

 

Tugela Falls is one of those places that you see a photo of and bam - that's it. 

In the words of Liz Lemon: "I must go to there".

That's the kind of power Tugela Falls has over hikers, and it lives up to the hype.

With a plunge of 1,000 metres, earning it the title of the second-highest waterfall in the world, it's worth the death-defying chain ladders that may make you question your life decisions.

But once you make it to the top, the Drakensberg Mountains reward you with awe-inspiring views of the Amphitheatre and Tugela Gorge.

Where to Stay: Witsieshoek Lodge is the closest accommodation to the start of the trail, or you can camp on top of the falls for a spectacular sunrise.

What to Wear: Don't leave home without a pair of Trail Luxe leggings! Crafted from high tension fabric, you don't need to worry about pulling up your pants every 5 steps.


Read More: Hiking Tugela Falls: Everything You Need to Know


Hop the Border and Drive Up Sani Pass

sani pass

If you're looking for a road trip destination that is straight-up "pinch me, this is not real" amazing, then add Sani Pass to your bucket list.

It's a hair-raising mountain pass, but when you make it to the top, you’ll forgive the fear induced by those sharp hairpin bends.

Oh, and do not attempt Sani Pass without a 4x4. You won't make it far.

When you reach the Lesotho border at the top, drive into Sani Mountain Lodge across the road. It's home to the highest pub in Africa.

Not enough adventure for you? While you're in Lesotho, drive up to Afriski. It's one of two skiing resorts in Southern Africa.


Where to Stay: Spend a night at Sani Mountain Lodge and wake up for sunrise. The sky is usually clear of clouds, making the conditions perfect for appreciating the zig-zag mountain pass you've conquered in its entirety.


Conquer the Cathedral Peak Hike

drakensberg mountains

One of the best things to do in the Drakensberg is to go hiking...there are DOZENS of day and multi-day trails after all.

The most famous one? Cathedral Peak.

It's astonishingly impressive and boasts the largest indigenous forest in the ‘Berg. 

Plus, it's home to the biggest collection of rock art in the world.

From the summit, you'll have 360-degree views of the Drakensberg. The return trip is 19 kilometres, and it can take 9 to 10 hours to complete. 

If you're a beginner hiker, conquer a few easier hikes before you attempt Cathedral Peak. It's also advised for first-timers to take a guide.


Go Wine Tasting at Cathedral Peak Wine Estate

wine tasting in the drakensberg

Want a break from hiking? Head to Cathedral Peak Wine Estate.

The wines have UNESCO heritage status, and you can sip your way through this historic part of South Africa for as little as R10.00.

Book in advance for a wine tasting and nibble on a Drakensberg Smoked Trout salad, homemade Bobotie or Cheese and Cold Meat Platters.


Grab Your Hiking Shoes and Jump in the Car

hiking in the drakensberg

Which of these things to do in the Drakensberg is at the top of your list? Did we leave out any must-do activities? Sound off in the comments!

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