The Drakensberg mountains offer some of the best hiking and scenery in all of South Africa. Here are 15 things to do in the Drakensberg to make the most of your trip.
1. Explore the Drakensberg escarpment
The Drakensberg escarpment is one of the most dramatic landscapes in all of Africa. Hiking along the escarpment provides unparalleled views of the surrounding countryside. There are a number of different trails to choose from, so you can make your hike as easy or difficult as you like.
2. Visit the Casterbridge Country Centre
Casterbridge Country Centre is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Drakensberg region. The centre has a number of exhibits on local wildlife, flora, and fauna. You can also pick up a souvenir or two at the centre’s shop.
3. Enjoy a round of golf at the Drakensberg Sun Golf Course
Drakensberg Sun Golf Course is one of the best places to tee off in all of Africa. The course offers stunning views of the Drakensberg mountains, and is a great challenge for all skill levels.
4. Take a walk on the Blyde River Canyon Trail
The Blyde River Canyon Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in the Drakensberg. The trail takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the region, and is a great way to get up close and personal with nature.
5. Visit the Sudwala Caves
Sudwala Caves are a must-see for any visitor to the Drakensberg region. The caves are home to a number of unique rock formations, and are a great place to cool off on a hot day.
6. Go on a safari in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is one of the best places in Africa to go on a safari. The park is home to a variety of different wildlife, including lions and elephants. It is the only state run park in Kwazulu Natal that is home to the African Big 5.
7. Head to the Tugela Falls for A Hike
Hike to Tugela Falls: at 3,110 feet, Tugela Falls is the second highest waterfall in the world. The hike to the falls is strenuous but rewards visitors with stunning views.
8. Go fishing in one of the many rivers in the Drakensberg
The Central Drakensberg and Southern Drakensberg areas affords more fly-fishing opportunities than anywhere else in South Africa.
9. Hike to the top of Champagne Castle
Champagne Castle is the highest peak in the Central Drakensberg at 11,181 feet. The hike to the summit is challenging but rewards visitors with incredible views.
10. Take a scenic drive along the R74
The R74 is a scenic route that winds its way through the Drakensberg mountains. The drive offers stunning views of the mountains, valleys, and rivers below.
11. Visit the Bushman paintings at the Giant’s Castle
Giant’s Castle is home to some of the best-preserved Bushman paintings in all of Africa. The paintings provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the San people who once inhabited the Drakensberg region.
12. Explore the Battlefields Route
The Battlefields Route is a historical tour of the many battlefields in the Drakensberg region. The route covers the Anglo-Zulu War, the Boer War, and more.
13. Visit the Spioenkop Game Reserve
Spioenkop Game Reserve is a great place to see some of the wildlife that calls the Drakensberg home. The reserve is home to a number of different animals, including rhinos, giraffes, and buffalo.
14. Take a scenic cable car ride in Underberg
Underberg is a small town in the Southern Drakensberg region. The town is a popular spot for hiking and mountain biking. It is also home to a cable car that takes visitors on a scenic ride to the top of a nearby mountain.
15. Enjoy the views from Cathedral Peak Hotel
Cathedral Peak Hotel is one of the best places to stay in the Drakensberg region. The hotel offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
16. Take a dip in the Sani Pass Hot Springs
The Sani Pass Hot Springs are located near the Lesotho border. The springs are a popular spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the views.
17. Go river rafting on the Tugela River
The Tugela River is one of the best places to go river rafting in South Africa. The river offers a number of different routes, so you can choose your level of difficulty.
18. Go horseback riding in the Drakensberg
Horseback riding is a great way to explore the Drakensberg region. There are a number of different trails to choose from, so you can find one that is perfect for your skill level.
The Drakensberg is a mountain range that runs through the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape in South Africa.