|
For the Tourism Trade and Visitors to the Drakensberg |
| |
|
Copyright: Cathkin Booking and Management Services
|
| |
|
Dassie or Rock Rabbit (Rock hyrax) Photo:Pixabay |
| |
|
Spending summer in the Drakensberg is an unforgettable experience, offering a vibrant display of natural beauty and activity. During this season, the towering peaks of the South African mountain range are cloaked in verdant greenery, and the waterfalls, fueled by seasonal rains, cascade with renewed vigour.
Warm, sunny days are perfect for exploring the outdoors, whether by hiking scenic trails, horseback riding through rolling hills, or marvelling at ancient rock art hidden in secluded spots. The crisp evening air provides a refreshing contrast, creating a balanced climate for relaxation and adventure. All around, the sounds of birdsong and the sweet aroma of blooming wildflowers create a peaceful and invigorating atmosphere.
Afternoon thunderstorms are a hallmark of summer here, briefly sweeping across the landscape and leaving behind dramatic skies and a heightened sense of vitality. These fleeting storms add to the region's magic, making each day feel dynamic and full of possibility.
Whether your goal is to unwind amidst breathtaking scenery or to immerse yourself in thrilling outdoor activities, the Drakensberg in summer offers a perfect retreat. It’s a place where nature’s vibrancy and tranquillity come together, leaving visitors with memories that linger long after the season has passed. |
| |
|
“Deep summer is when laziness finds respectability.” – Sam Keen |
| |
|
Contour Path, near the base of Bannerman's Pass |
| |
|
Contents:
- Drakensberg's Dassies;
- Drakensberg's Contour Path;
- Thokozisa Centre;
- San Rock Art images from eSibayeni;
- Drakensberg's Chain Ladder Hike and the Tugela Falls;
- A Drakensberg birding list;
- Drakensberg Events;
- Weather charts;
- Tourism directory
|
| |
|
Drakensberg Dassies, also called the rock hyrax (Procavia capensis), is a small herbivore in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of the Middle East. Though they may resemble rodents or small guinea pigs, they are more closely related to elephants and manatees and share a common ancestor with these animals. This connection is evident in similarities in their teeth, bone structure, and other physical traits.
Dassies are usually found in rocky areas, seeking shelter in crevices and elevated spaces to avoid predators. Their stocky bodies, thick fur, and strong claws help them navigate rough terrain. Social by nature, dassies often live in groups or colonies, ranging from a few individuals to as many as 50.
Their diet is predominantly grasses, shrubs, and fruits, but they may also consume insects or bird eggs when food is scarce. Active during the day, dassies forage for food and retreat to their rocky shelters at night. They communicate using high-pitched whistles and grunts, which can also signal danger.
Though small, dassies play a vital role in their ecosystem by influencing plant growth through grazing and serving as prey for predators like eagles, snakes, and carnivores. While not considered at risk, dassies highlight how evolution can link species that might seem unrelated. |
| |
|
Descending Langalibalele Pass |
| |
|
Drakensberg's Contour Path
|
| |
|
The Drakensberg Contour Path is a popular hiking trail in South Africa, stretching along the slopes of the Drakensberg Mountains from Cathedral Peak to Lotheni in the south. This scenic route forms part of the Maloti-Drakensberg Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trail follows the contour line at 1,800 to 2,000 meters above sea level elevations, offering stunning views of towering cliffs, deep valleys, and vast grasslands. The trail starts in the Cathedral Peak area and ends at Lotheni. The total distance of this trail is some 150 km.
Hikers on this path pass through diverse landscapes, including montane forests, waterfalls, and dramatic ridges. Notable experiences include views of Cathedral Peak, Champagne Castle, and Giant's Castle. The trail crosses various rivers and streams, providing opportunities to replenish water supplies. While not technically challenging, the trail's length and varied terrain require good fitness and navigation skills.
The trail has multiple entry points, making it suitable for everything from short day hikes to more extended expeditions. Popular routes connect with Organ Pipes, Gray's Pass, and Bannerman's Pass. For a more immersive experience, the path can be combined with ascents to higher altitudes or overnight stays in caves or tents.
Wildlife along the trail includes various bird species, such as the endangered Bearded vultures and antelope, like eland and chacma baboons. Due to the region's unpredictable weather, sudden storms and temperature drops, hikers should be well-prepared for changing conditions.
The Drakensberg Contour Path offers natural beauty, adventure, and peace, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
Some of the key visionaries who helped to establish this trail were Bill Barnes and J. van Heynigen. J. van Heynigen was the Monk's Cowl Forester in the 1930's. He was responsible for developing the contour trail between Cathedral Peak and Monks Cowl. Van Heynigen's Pass near Injisuthi was named after him due to his important conservation role in the Monks Cowl area.
Bill Barnes was the highly respected Chief Conservator or Officer in Charge of the Giants Castle section of the Maloti-Drakensberg World Heritage site from 1956 - 1972. He established the contour path between Giant's Castle and Injisuthi. Additionally, Giant's Hut, Bannerman Hut and Centenary Hut are along this trail. He was ably assisted by the Mountain Club of South Africa, who provided much of the resources to establish Centenary Hut. The Mountain Club of South Africa also recently replaced the roof on Bannerman's Hut.
Other key personalities who helped establish and maintain the Contour Path were Bill Small, Bill Bainbridge and Charl Brummer.
The Contour Path has the potential to rival South Africa's most popular and most challenging multi-day hikes, which include the Grand Traverse, the Otter Trail, the Tsitsikamma Trail and the Giants Cup Trail. The core challenges are marketing and maintenance. Significant sections, such as the section along Eastman's Ridge, Phillip's Folly and the base of Ship's Prow's Pass, have not been maintained for twenty years. Huts such as Centenary Hut have also been allowed to become dilapidated due to vandalism. This also applies to the numerous pass trails connecting to the contour path. These trails are significantly eroded and, in some cases, hazardous for hiking due to insufficient path management. Additionally, no significant marketing effort has been mobilised to promote the apparent potential of this route.
KZN Wildlife faces resource constraints that limit its ability to maintain the Contour Path. The upkeep of the path demands significant resources, and with the ongoing government budget reductions, this has become an increasingly challenging task. This matter has been raised with associations, such as the Mountain Club of South Africa and organisations, such as the UThukela District Municipality. These bodies have taken note of this situation and indicated that they may be willing to take up the challenge to restore this critical piece of South African Heritage.
There are existing initiatives, such as the 'Trail Blazers' fund in the Monks Cowl area which help to maintain hiking trails. These are a welcome effort to help maintain the short-day walking trails around KZN Wildlife Camps. However, these initiatives are insufficient to fund the maintenance of multi-day trails in the Drakensberg, such as the Contour Path. It would be wonderful if an initiative such as the 'Friends of Table Mountain' could be mobilised. The Cape Town Community and corporates such as Rand Merchant Bank sponsor the maintenance of hiking/ trail running trails in the Table Mountain area. Major trail run events in this reserve also raise funds for trail maintenance and conservation initiatives. Please see the excellent video clip that provides an overview of this project.
Another excellent example of how events and corporates make a difference with the maintenance of hiking trails is the Chain Ladder, in Chain Ladder Pass, in the Northern Drakensberg. The Mont Aux Sources Challenge and Witsieshoek Lodge provided the funds for a team led by Neil Margetts of SA Outdoor Academy to repair the ladders. Without this effort, the chain ladders would still be closed, and the significant number of foreign tourists using this trail would have dwindled.
|
| |
|
Click on the above image for a larger version of the route map. |
| |
|
Tucked away in the scenic heart of the Central Drakensberg, the Thokozisa Centre is a lively hub that seamlessly blends shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Set against the stunning Drakensberg mountains, it offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for visitors of all ages.
The centre features an array of shops showcasing locally crafted items, from handmade pottery and intricate beadwork to custom clothing and home décor. These unique offerings celebrate the area's rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal place to find meaningful souvenirs or gifts.
Food lovers will appreciate the dining options available at Thokozisa, which cater to various tastes. Whether you're in the mood for a satisfying meal, a cup of freshly brewed coffee, or a light snack, the restaurant and adjacent delicatessen provide excellent choices in a tranquil setting.
Thokozisa is also a gateway to the many outdoor activities the Drakensberg region has to offer. Visitors can find helpful information about nearby hiking trails, cultural landmarks, and adventures like horseback riding and canopy tours. Chris and Magda Hearns initially established this information centre. Chris, Magda, and their assistant Sandy-Lee Dobbie provided a professional service for many years. It is pleasing to note that Sandy-Lee has now taken on this enterprise and is continuing the professional legacy of this information office.
The centre's well-tended gardens and picturesque surroundings provide a peaceful retreat, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Thokozisa Centre captures the essence of the Drakensberg with its combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern conveniences, ensuring a memorable experience for all. |
| |
|
San Rock Art images from eSibayeni
|
| |
|
The Didima Gorge, also known as the Ndedema Valley, is one of the richest areas for San rock art in the Drakensberg region. In the 1960s, Harald and Shirley-Ann Pager meticulously documented and redrew all the San rock art found in Didima Valley and its surrounding areas within the Central Drakensberg. Their work included around 17 shelters and approximately 3,900 frescoes.
They discovered that 80% of this rock art is concentrated in three main shelters: eSibayeni Cave, which has 1,146 paintings; Junction Shelter, with 1,134 paintings; and Botha’s Shelter, containing 899 paintings. KZN Wildlife Honorary Officers regularly monitor these sites to ensure they are protected from vandalism and to report on the overall condition of the shelters and the rock art within them.
The following are some images from Esibayeni Shelter which is not open to the public. |
| |
|
eSibayeni Shelter was a significant religious site for the Drakensberg San people. They regarded, and their forebears still regard them as a 'veil to the spiritual world' ( the Secret San still exist in the Drakensberg). Shamans visited this site to paint scenes that reflected their spiritual beliefs and experiences in the spiritual realm.
The above image provides a distant view of the main panel, dominated by a procession of eland-like therianthropes. |
| |
|
The San believe shamans could enter the spiritual world through trance dances, taking on the 'potency' of animals such as the eland, and transforming into therianthropes. The eland was particularly significant and was seen as the most important 'vehicle' to enter the spiritual realm. This is why the most painted image in San rock art is the eland and half human and half eland therianthropes.
Once in the spiritual world, they would engage with their ancestors to seek assistance with healing the sick, dealing with rain, and evil shamans. |
| |
|
The San also believed that their rock art had spiritual power. They would sometimes paint over older images to enhance the 'potency' of a rock art panel. Looking at a rock art panel holistically and not as individual elements is also essential. These panels portray a story with complex spiritual connotations.
David Lewis-Wiliams and Sam Challis published an excellent book,"Deciphering Ancient Minds. The Mystery of San Bushman Rock Art". This is an enlightening view on how to interpret San rock art. Their views are well based on the San ethnographic accounts of Bleek, Lucy-Loyd and more modern ethnographies of the Kalahari San. |
| |
|
Drakensberg's Chain Ladder Hike and the Tugela Falls
|
| |
|
The Tugela Falls and Drakensberg Chain Ladder Hike is a thrilling journey through one of South Africa’s most picturesque regions. Located within the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the hike takes visitors deep into the rugged Drakensberg mountains, with the final ascent involving the famous chain ladders.
Starting at the Sentinel Car Park, the trail is well-marked and leads toward the base of the Amphitheatre. This remarkable rock formation is known for its dramatic cliffs and sweeping views. The route spans approximately 16 kilometres round trip and traverses diverse landscapes, including grassy hillsides, rocky trails, and narrow ridges. Hikers can enjoy expansive views of the surrounding Free State valleys and peaks along the way. Wildlife enthusiasts might spot the rare Bearded Vulture or Klipspringer, while spring and summer bring vibrant wildflower displays.
As the trail climbs higher, it reaches Sentinel Peak, where the scenery becomes even more striking. The final challenge is the ascent of two chain ladders securely fixed to the rock face. These ladders, each around 12-24 meters long, require steady focus and a good grip, making this section a test of nerve for those uncomfortable with heights. However, the ladders are sturdy and designed to ensure safety, making the climb manageable for most with reasonable fitness levels.
Reaching the summit is an enriching experience. From the top, hikers are greeted by unparalleled views of the Amphitheatre. Furthermore, the chance to see Tugela Falls, the world’s tallest waterfall. This marvel plunges a staggering 948 meters. The summit is a peaceful spot to take a break, enjoy a packed snack, and soak in the majestic beauty of the Drakensberg escarpment.
Descending the same route brings another encounter with the chain ladders, adding a final adrenaline rush to the adventure. Alternatively, it is possible to descend via the Gully.
The hike typically takes 5 to 7 hours to complete, depending on pace and the number of stops along the way. Hikers should be prepared with sturdy footwear, water, and weather-appropriate clothing to ensure a comfortable and safe journey.
This hike is a must for nature lovers and thrill-seekers, offering a mix of challenging terrain, breathtaking views, and the experience of scaling South Africa’s iconic chain ladders. |
| |
|
Top of the Drakensberg Amphitheatre |
| |
|
A comprehensive list of birds in the Drakensberg has been created using information from various sources, including the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa, Birdlife South Africa, and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. The plan is to update this list regularly as the names of bird species change and provide a link for all future issues of the Drakensberg Times. The table indicates common and notable bird species in the Drakensberg. Click on the following link - Drakensberg Bird List. |
| |
|
Winterton Parkrun takes place every Saturday morning from the Waffle Hut starting at 08.00. Cannibal Cave Parkrun takes place in the Northern Drakensberg;
Cathkin Park Walking Group takes place every Tuesday. 8.00 in Winter and 7.00 in Summer. Contact Nick at 0794936424;
Central Drakensberg Hiking Group Saturdays and overnight hikes. Contact James Seymour for details. 0829255508;
Cathkin Park Community Projects Run takes place on the last Friday of the month at 17.00 in Summer and 16.30 in Winter at The Nest;
Drakensberg Boys’ Choir School has a concert on Wednesday afternoons during term times at www.webtickets.co.za or 0364681012
Mountain Music Club occurs on the last Saturday of every month from 5 pm, usually at Mac’s Café, Cedarwood Shopping Centre. Dave: 0724839049.
2025
24 January: 125th Anniversary of the Battle of Spionkop. Lynette 0825730224
2 February: Wagondrift Challenge at Wagondrift Dam
22nd Feb: Sterkfontein 1500 Swim Challenge. Also, a 3km and 500m Swim
1st March Drakensberg Northern Trail 2025.
17 March - 20 March Southern African Mountain Conference (SAMC) 2025
29 March 2025 Jazz at the Berg
25 - 28 April Music in the Mountains - Drakensberg Boys Choir School
Oxpecker Trail Runs – Yellow-billed, Red-billed & African - Yellow-billed. 2 - 4 May 2025; Red-billed. 9 - 11 May 2025; African. 16 - 18 May 2025
31 May to 8 June.Grindrod Bank Berg & Bush mountain biking challenge.
28 June: Drakensberg Polar Bear Swim Challenge at Dragon Peaks, Belinda 0797377282
05 - 07 September Mont Aux Sources Ultra Trail | Trail Running
5th - 6th Sept: The Berg Show at VS Agri Grounds R74 Joanine 0828564368
4th Oct: Run the Berg All Out Adventures www.runtheberg.co.za
Ann Gray
December 2024
|
| |
|
Drakensberg's Weather Charts |
| |
|
Drakensberg Tourism Directory |
| |
|
Download the Drakensberg Experience Map
Adventure Operators
Active Escape
All Out Adventures
Berg Adventures
Cathkin Trails for Mountain Bikers
Drakensberg Ballooning
Drakensberg Canopy Tours
Drakensberg Hikes
Drakensberg Mountain Bike Trails
Dragon Peaks Resort
Drakensberg Walking Excursions
Four Rivers Adventures
Hike The Berg
Hot Air Ballooning SA
Leap Adventures
Scootours
The Northern Horse
Ushaka Horse Trails
Westline Aviation
Battlefield Sites
Bloukrans
Colenso
Doornkop Laager site
Elandslaagte
Fort Durnford
Rensburgskop Battlefield
Siege of Ladysmith (various)
Spioenkop
Thukela Heights (Various)
Vaalkrans
Weenen
Willow Grange
Winston Churchill Capture Site
Zaailaager / Saailaager
B&Bs
Alkamia B&B
At Home
Bell Park B&B and S/C
Bingelela Restaurant / Pizzeria & B&B
Cathkin Cottage B&B
Cwebile B&B
Easby B&B
Itumeleng B&B Bergville
Nzima B&B
Tugela Fall B&B
Backpackers
Amphitheatre Backpackers
Drakensberg Bush Lodge
Inkosana Lodge
Booking Agencies & Tour Operators
Africa Ignite
Berg Adventures
Cathkin Booking & Management Services
Cathkin Park Reservations
Golf got you
Ron Gold Historical Tours
Book Stores
Mountain Dragon Books
Camping & Caravanning
Mountain Splendour Eco-Resort
Dragon Peaks Mountain Resort
Monks Cowl Camp
Royal Natal Camp
Injisuthi Camp
Coffee Shops & Restaurants
Bingelela Restaurant / Pizzeria & B&B
Canaan Coffee & Gifts
Champagne Bistro
Chocolate Memories
Drakensberg Brewery
Farmers Fork
Four Rivers
Kabbo Burger Factory
Mac's Coffee Shop
Pig & Plough
Scrumpy Jack Farmstall
The Coffee Patch
The Griller Restaurant
The Salesyard
The Tower of Pizza
Thokozisa Restaurant
Valley Bakery
Waffle Hut
Conference Venues
Alpine Heath
Alpine Heath
ATKV Drakensville Resort
ATKV Drakensville Resort
Cathedral Peak Hotel
Champagne Castle Hotel
Champagne Sport Resort
Dragon Peaks Mountain Resort
Little Switzerland Hotel
Sandford Park Country Hotel
The Nest Hotel
Wits End Mountain Resort
Craft Shops
BergAir
Cedarwood Village Shopping Centre
Chocolate Memories
Farm Friends Farmstall
KwaZulu-Natal Weavers
Sandra's se Winke;
The Oaks Supermarket
The Outspan
Thokozisa
Estate Agents
Chas Everitt - Pierre de Wet 0645120809
Game Reserves/ Conservation Areas
Kwaggashoek Game Ranch
Slievyre Game Farm
Spionkop Nature Reserve
Weenen Nature Reserve
Zulu Waters Game Reserve
The Drakensberg World Heritage Site
Golf
Hlalanathi Berg Resort
Champagne Sports Resort
Cathedral Peak Hotel
Monks Cowl Golf Resort
Guest Houses
Ashtonville Terraces Guesthouse
Monte Vista
The Riverhouse
Lodges, Hotels & Resorts
Alpine Heath
Ardmore Guest Farm
Blue Haze Country Lodge
Cathedral Peak Hotel
Champagne Castle Hotel
Champagne Sports Resort
Cheetah Ridge Lodge
Dragon Peaks Mountain Resort
Dragons View Lodge
Esiweni Lodge
Ezulwini Berg Resort
Hlalanathi Berg Resort
Inkungu Lodge
Kwaggashoek Game Ranch
Little Switzerland Hotel
Mackaya Bella Lodge
Monks Cowl Golf Resort
Montusi Mountain Lodge
Sandford Park Country Hotel
Spionkop Lodge
The Cavern Resort & Spa
The Nest Hotel
Museums
Ladysmith
Sandra se Winkel
Winterton
Other Attractions
Cathedral Peak Wine Estate
Dragon Rock Reptile Centre
Drakensberg Boys Choir School
Drakensberg Brewery
Falcon Ridge Raptor Centre
H and D Honey Products
Public San Rock Art Sites
Injisuti Camp, guided tour to Battle Cave
Main Cave, Giants Castle Camp
Road Side Assistance
Tyre Roadside Assistance 0617821591
Self-Catering
Accommodation at Trek Trips & Trails
Alpine Heath
Alpine Heath
Ama Casa Self-catering Cottages
Amphitheatre Backpackers
ATKV Drakensville Resort
Bell Park B&B and S/C
Birdsong Cottages
Celtis cottage
Champagne Cottages
Champagne Lane Resort
Champagne Valley Resort
Dalmore Guest Farm
Didima Camp
Drakensberg Dream Cottages
Drakensberg Hikes
Drakensview S/C
Fernwood Shareblock (Pty) Ltd
Giants Castle Camp
Glenside Farmhouse
Goodhope Country Escape
Graceland Self-Catering Cottages
Highbourne Cottages
Hill Billy Cottages
Ihophe(Turtle Dove)
Ihophe(Turtle Dove)
iKhaya Lodge
Ikhayamalafu Mountain Hideaway
Ikhunzi Cave
Ledges Retreat
Little Acres
Linglela Lodge
Nambiti House
Oak Cottage
Ondini Guest House
Ouma se Opstal
Peak View Cottage
Pumeleni
River Crossing
Rockwood Earth Lodge
Slievyre Game Farm
Sungubala Eco Camp
Swallowfield Rondavels
Tendele/ Royal Natal
Vultures View
Wits End
Spas
Alpine Heath
Champagne Castle Hotel
Champagne Sports Resort
Monks Cowl Golf Resort
Spoilt Green Eco-Spa
The Nest Hotel
To change your subscription, click here. |
| |
|