The Drakensberg

The Drakensberg (Afrikaans: "Dragon Mountains") or uKhahlamba (Zulu: "the barrier of spears") is the highest mountain range in Southern Africa, rising to 11,424 feet in height and spanning a length of 620 miles, and is a World Heritage Site.  The range, with its awe-inspiring basalt cliffs, snowcapped in winter, towering over riverine bush, lush yellowwood forests and cascading waterfalls, forms a massive barrier separating KwaZulu-Natal from the mountain kingdom of Lesotho.  Hundreds of sandstone caves and rock shelters harbour the largest concentration of early rock art in sub-Saharan Africa.  These are outstanding in their quality and diversity of subjects, their depiction of animals and human beings, and as a record of the beliefs and way of life over 4,000 years of the Khoisan people who used to inhabit the region.

Of course, the mountains must be conquered. The fearless may choose to try sheer rock or ice-climbing, or they may prefer the adrenaline rush provided by abseiling, white water rafting or taking a helicopter ride to view the Drakensberg mountains from above. For those who prefer the gentler, more leisurely pace of walking the many hiking routes on both lower and upper slopes of the Drakensberg, they can watch out for the 290 species of birds, 48 species of mammals, or the rare varieties of plant life.

Whether hiking and camping with a group of friends, honeymooning at a luxury resort, or escaping on a golf retreat, the Drakenberg offers something for everyone with stunning views at every turn.

Golfers

A canopy tour over yellowwood forests

Snowcapped peaks delight skiers and snowboarders

Horseback riders

Chain ladders assist hikers

Tugela Falls - with a total drop of 3,110 ft in five free-leaping falls - is the 2nd
highest waterfall in the world.  The water is very pure and safe to drink

Yellowwood forests

Unfortunately we won't be anywhere near this mountain range during our vacation - all the more reason to go back to South Africa in the future!