The Drakensberg has long been a hiker’s paradise for any outdoor enthusiast. The beautiful scenery and backdrops make for picturesque views throughout. A trip to this extraordinary region is a must for those wishing to experience one of South Africa’s top tourist destinations. Here is our selection of the best day hiking trails in the Drakensberg, to help for your next trip.
None of these day hikes require a tour guide, although they are available should you need one.
Contact: Berg Adventures, 082 679 4244 or you can ask for advice at andrew@antbear.co.za
Berg View at Giants Castle – This lightly trafficked loop trail is an easy 2-hour trail that features beautiful wildflowers, panoramic views and is good for all skill levels. This trail offers one of the best views of the escarpment, ranging from Giant’s Castle to Cathkin Peak.
Worlds View at Giants Castle – It’s a moderate 3 hour trail the gets you to the top of Worlds View offering a 360-degree view of the Mountains. This is the perfect spot for a picnic too. On your return, you have the option of extending your walk by following the river walk upstream. Finish off with a beer on the deck at the Giant’s Castle Main Camp
Game Pass Shelter in the Kamberg is situated just a 1,5 hour walk from the Kamberg Rock Art Centre and this guided hike offers the best examples of bushman rock art that is easily accessible. On the way you pass behind the spiritually moving Waterfall Shelter. This hike is nothing short of a world-class experience in Khoisan rock art and living Zulu and San culture.
Caracal Cave at Highmore – The scenery on this 3 hour hike is absolutely stunning and a real treat for the eyes. It can be confusing to find the way right down to the cave but its absolutely worth the extra bit of scrambling to get there. Take a picnic with you. There is no restaurant at the camp.
Tugela Gorge to the base of the Tugela Falls – This waterfall is the second highest in the world and this hike is also classed as one of the most scenic. The hike has one jaw-dropping viewpoint after the next. The only downside is that you will not be on your own due to its popularity which is why I tend to recommend this 22 km day walk only as a 4th or 5th choice.
Sentinel Peak chain ladders – The Sentinel Peak is one of the icons of the northern section of the Drakensberg and is by far the easiest hike to get to the top of the escarpment. Be warned there are 2 chain ladders to climb and you need to have a serious head for heights to get up there. The view from the top of the Tugela Falls looking out over Royal Natal is worth the effort though
Sterkspruit Falls and Nandi Falls at Monks Cowl – A scenic 8km circular hike to Sterkspruit Falls and Nandi’s Falls with a total elevation gain during the hike of only 330m. It’s a great example where you stay low in the valley and are rewarded with lovely views and water falls.
If you want the best hiking trail guide for the Drakensberg Mountains then check out this free offer from Deon Small at Berg Adventures, the most recommended professional hiking guide in the Drakensberg today. Download your copy of the 75 page ebook “Hiking Trail Guide to the Drakesberg” for free here www.accommodation-drakensberg.co.za/drakensberghikingguide/