Drakensberg Safari Tours
Why Visit the Drakensberg?
The rugged, verdant expanses of the Drakensberg range’s summits truly fulfill their embellished and celebrated reputation. Translating to “dragon mountain” in Afrikaans, the majority of this mountain resides in KwaZulu-Natal, serving as the natural boundary between South Africa and the Kingdom of Lesotho. The expansive basalt peaks and sandstone cliffs of the mountain constitute the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg UNESCO World Heritage Site
Summer produces intense thunderstorms that occur over 3,400-meter peaks. As the thunder dissipates, the invigorating mountain air permeates the gorges and valleys. The streams and rivers are optimal for kayaking, tubing, swimming, and river rafting. Steep cliffs, natural supports, and river valleys attract hikers, equestrians, hang gliders, and mountaineers. Waterfalls descend over polished boulder steps into crystalline rock pools. The Cape vulture and bearded vulture soar above the cliffs near Sani Pass, as Sloggett’s ice rat darts past grazing eland.
Numerous caves are concealed within and surrounding the Drakensberg, many of which have functioned as a canvas for the San people in the past. More than 35,000 paintings are distributed throughout 600 rock sites, including humans and animals. As winter arrives, the mountain summits are coated in snow, transforming its slopes into a recreational haven for snowboarders and skiing enthusiasts.
Drakensberg Tours and Safaris
Hotels and Lodges in Drakensberg
More Information About Drakensberg
Is the Drakensberg located in KwaZulu-Natal?
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa’s third-smallest province, is renowned for its diverse scenic and cultural attractions. It boasts the country’s most developed beaches to the south and north of Durban, alongside pristine, secluded shores; globally recognized game reserves; two UNESCO World Heritage Sites; and several of South Africa’s most notable historic battlefields.
The diversified province extends along the temperate Indian Ocean from Port Edward in the south to Swaziland and Mozambique in the north. The shore experiences a subtropical climate throughout the year.
In the western region of the province lies South Africa’s most spectacular mountains, the Drakensberg, situated within the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The KwaZulu-Natal Midlands have a verdant environment rich in ancient towns, appealing country hotels, and captivating craft pathways.
KwaZulu-Natal was the site of significant engagements that garnered global attention during the 1800s and early 1900s, involving conflicts between the Boers and the British, as well as between the Boers and the Zulus.
What is the optimal time to visit?
The climate of KwaZulu-Natal, which encompasses the Drakensberg Mountain Range, is characterized as consistently conducive to tourism throughout the year. Summers are characterized by high temperatures and humidity, average 28 degrees Celsius, and account for the majority of the yearly precipitation.
The region possesses a delightful subtropical climate and is adjacent to the temperate Indian Ocean. The winter temperature averages approximately 23 degrees, characterized by warmth and dryness, with sporadic snowfall in elevated regions.
Temperatures in mountainous regions can fluctuate significantly, hence it is advisable to pack judiciously and wear layered clothing. While embarking on a hike, one may depart in sunny and warm conditions, only to encounter a bend in the mountains where clouds obscure the sky, accompanied by a gentle, cool mist.
What further activities are available in this vicinity?
KwaZulu-Natal is South Africa’s most diversified province, featuring sub-tropical woods, mangrove swamps, and snowy mountains, among other landscapes. The extensive, pristine beaches are remarkable, while the metropolitan regions are well-developed, featuring hotels, restaurants, casinos, and many forms of entertainment.
KwaZulu-Natal is distinguished for its exceptional surfing locations, with several of the world’s premier surfers originating from this region. If you want to explore underwater rather than surf, diving offers an extraordinary experience to watch a myriad of fish and other fascinating species up close.
In rural areas, life progresses at a relaxed tempo. The renowned Midlands Meander provides several travel routes, lodging, recreational activities, and dining options.
Additional notable features comprise the uKhahlamba Drakensberg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Isimangaliso Wetland Park. Activities available include hiking, horseback riding, paragliding, fly fishing, birdwatching, and game drives. It is among the few locations globally where one can observe turtle hatchlings.