With 200km of magnificent mountains, the Drakensberg is situated inland just over four hours away from Johannesburg. This World Heritage Site is the perfect destination for those seeking refuge from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
QUICK GUIDE:
The Drakensberg is a sanctuary of peace and tranquility. As soon as you pass the first mountains you are immediately transported back in time to when humans were at one with nature. The mountains create a buffer to protect you from the outside world and there are few things that can beat the feeling of standing in the valley enveloped by the highest mountains in SA. The berg is completely surrounded by rolling green fields, flora and fauna. The Drakensberg is divided into four valleys and each offers its own attractions and charm. It does not matter where you stay, whether in one of the many luxury hotels of if you simply pitch your tent in one of the campsites situated all over, the magic of the berg will not fail to capture you.
HINTS/TIPS:
When walking or hiking in the berg, make sure that you have a partner with you. Although chances of an accident or getting lost are low (all hiking trails are clearly marked) it is just better and it is also more fun to have someone to share all the beauty and magic with. During summer, it gets quite hot in the day, but the berg is prone to sudden, usually afternoon thunderstorms so plan your walks in advance and always carry extra supplies and a raincoat with you. During winter the berg receives a high amount of snow and the mountains are transformed into a white fairytale. Mist is common all year round so be sure to carry a torch with you wherever you go and always watch out for any curious baboons or snakes on the trail path.
MUST DO’S:
Set your alarm and wake up to watch the sunrise. During those early hours of the morning, you can see all of the berg and the only sounds that break the calming silence are the chirping of the birds and the water gushing down the many waterfalls. Few things in this world beat taking a dip in a refreshingly cool stream or in a rockpool at the bottom of a magnificent waterfall. Fill up your waterbottle with this water as it is pure, clean water straight from the mouth of the mountains. Obviously, the only way to explore the berg is on foot so feel free to explore the many hiking trails which lead from hotels and campsites alike. You could also hitch a ride on the back of one of the many well travelled horses. Visit the world’s second highest waterfall – Thukela Falls – which is a staggeringly 948m high. Get in a round of golf at some of the most beautiful golf courses in the country or view the ancient rock paintings for which the berg is famous for. Whatever you do in the berg, make sure you just revel in this sublime example of nature’s beauty.
More Resources on Drakensberg
 Drakensberg Tourism Authority
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