Introduction
The awe-inspiring Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa, just by topography, is an adventurer’s paradise and offers a wealth of outdoor activities. These will satisfy all fitness levels and age group. Furthermore, this area is a 243 000 hectare mountainous region, named ‘Ukhahlamba’ by the Zulu people. It thoroughly deserves its international status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Additionally, these mountains offer massive cliffs towering over riverine bush, lush evergreen forests and cascading waterfalls and mountain streams. Moreover, hiking paths that invite exploration. Additionally, the mountains have seasonally snow-capped peaks, sheer cliffs and deep gorges and rolling hills offers memorable experiences and activities. Moreover, these will suit everyone, from the adrenalin rush of tubing down the mighty Thukela to a leisurely round of golf.
Regions
The Drakensberg divided into three areas; southern, central and northern Drakensberg. Furthermore, all three Drakensberg areas are easily accessible by road. This makes the transportation of leisure tourists and delegates uncomplicated. Visitors to each of these regions have a wide variety of venues to choose from These range from luxury boutique hotels ideal for executive breaks. Also, hotels catering for larger groups with onsite team building facilities, to picturesque ‘camps’ with chalets set in the Drakensberg. Moreover, conference and Incentive Planners will be spoilt for choice with any number of options available when planning a ‘must-do’ memorable event.
Southern Drakensberg
The SOUTHERN DRAKENSBERG offers visitors a wealth of outdoor activities. These range from trout fishing, and hiking to 4×4 excursions. The Sani Pass Hotel caters for medium-sized conferences. Additionally, an ideal start for traversing the highest pass-road in South Africa by 4×4. This route takes visitors along the upper Mkomazana River up Sani Pass to the border with Lesotho (2874 metres above sea-level). Here tourists or delegates can enjoy lunch at the highest pub in Africa. Or experience the awesome Drakensberg on horseback. From hour-long rides in the foothills to a three-day expedition into Lesotho in the safe hands of a local guide and a sure-footed Basotho pony.
Selecting a country lodge or guest house for your holiday or conference invariably offers a more bespoke option. Likely to be more flexible with regards to meals, activities and even the location for meetings. For example, elsewhere in the lodge or in the gardens. For venues offering on-site golf, the Drakensberg Gardens Golf and Spa Resort, Champagne Sport and Cathedral Peak Hotel are ideal. The rocky hillsides in the vicinity of Ixopo and Creighton are ablaze with aloes during the winter months. A great excursion is aboard the Sisonke Stimela. This is a restored steam train, which during July operates the Creighton Aloe Festival excursion.
Central Drakensberg
THE CENTRAL DRAKENSBERG is a mecca for the adventurous and offers several team-building options. So, take the challenge of one on the many rock-climbing routes in the central Drakensberg. Also, feel the adrenalin rush provided by abseiling, kloofing and white water rafting or take a helicopter ride to view the majestic peaks from above. This is a great ‘wow’ experience to include in a holiday or incentive itinerary. This part of the Drakensberg is home to the world-renowned Drakensberg Boys Choir. A boarding school for boys. This is where choral music is used as a vehicle for holistic education. Visit the school to hear the Choir perform (their schedule permitting). Moreover, invite them to perform at a gala dinner or special event.
Northern Drakensberg
The NORTHERN DRAKENSBERG is home to the spectacular Amphitheatre. Furthermore, this is possibly the most photographed feature of the region. Also, the source of the Thukela (uThukela) River which plunges some 950 metres over the edge of the Mont-aux-Sources Plateau in spectacular fashion. Furthermore, this region has several options catering for tours or medium to small conferences. A good example is the aha Alpine Heath Resort, with its breathtaking mountain views. Additionally, team building and adventure activities. Also, adrenalin junkies will appreciate the proximity of All-Out-Adventures. This is an adventure company offering guests and delegates breathtaking experiences and team-building events. Additionally, the Mnweni Cultural Centre provides a glimpse into the local culture. Furthermore, the option to purchase handcrafted goods and medicinal plants. Also, the centre offers accommodation and a range of activities, including hiking, swimming, canoeing, horse riding, and bird watching.