The South Africa Guide

The Drakensberg Mountains situated in Kwazulu-Natal in South Africa are called uKhahlamba by the Zulu tribe meaning mountain of spears. It is the principal mountain range of South Africa and extends for about 200 km dividing Kwazulu-Natal from the mountain kingdom of Lesotho. The name Drakensberg (meaning Dragon Mountain) was given by the Voortrekkers and it is easy to understand why when viewing the towering basalt cliffs which are snow capped in winter and just as awe inspiring and majestic at other times of the year.

The highest peaks are Champagne Castle and Mont aux Sources and this mountainous region of around 243 thousand hectares is a preserved and protected area named the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park. And is an acclaimed world heritage site due to the large diversity of Flora and Fauna.

The varied and awe inspiring location offers diverse activities for tourists visiting, such as rock and ice climbing, white water rafting as well as abseiling and helicopter rides. There are also many different hiking routes to view the beautiful scenery as well as the variety of bird and mammal life and rare varieties of plants.  Horse riding, Mountain biking, Bowls, Tennis and Golf are also available. This area is a definite must while touring South Africa.

The visitor to the Drakensberg region can choose from a variety of accommodations, there are ultra modern luxury resorts and hotels offering superior conference facilities as well as guest houses, B & B’s, Caravan Parks and cabins available.

So with all the activities and the large and varied types of accommodation available suiting all tastes and budgets, it is not surprising that the Drakensberg Mountain area of Kwazulu-Natal is one of South Africa’s hottest holiday destinations today.