Drakensberg Mountains
KwaZulu-Natal · 3,482m Above Sea Level
About Drakensberg Mountains
The Drakensberg Mountains, meaning \”Dragon\’s Mountain\” in Afrikaans, form the highest mountain range in Southern Africa. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, the range stretches over 1,000km through KwaZulu-Natal province.
Home to over 35,000 San Bushman rock paintings, dramatic basalt cliffs and spectacular waterfalls, the Drakensberg offers some of South Africa\’s most breathtaking wilderness experiences.
- 📍 KwaZulu-Natal
- 🗓 Best Season: March ~ May
- 💰 Entrance Fee: R 200 / Adult
- 🧭 Guided Tour: Available
- 📏 Height: 3,482m
- ⭐ Difficulty: Hard
Activities & Experiences
Multi-day Hiking
3-7 day backpacking trails through dramatic landscapes
Rock Art Tours
Discover ancient San Bushman paintings dating back 4,000 years
Horse Riding
Explore mountain trails on horseback with expert guides
Waterfall Hiking
Visit spectacular waterfalls including Tugela Falls
Fly Fishing
World-class trout fishing in crystal clear mountain streams
Best Time to Visit
Summer
December ~ February
Lush green landscapes
but afternoon thunderstorms
Best for Photography
Autumn
March ~ May ⭐ Best Time
Perfect hiking weather
clear skies and mild temperatures
Best for Hiking
Winter
June ~ August
Cold but clear skies
excellent visibility and snow
Best for Snow Views
Spring
September ~ November
Wildflowers bloom dramatic
waterfalls at their fullest
Best for Wildflowers
How to Get There
By Air
The nearest airport is King Shaka International Airport in Durban (2.5 hrs).
OR Tambo International in Johannesburg is approximately 4 hours drive away.
By Road
From Durban take the N3 highway towards Johannesburg and turn off at Estcourt or Ladysmith depending on your destination in the Drakensberg.
Practical Information
- 🕐 Open: Year Round
- 📞 Tel: +27 36 438 6303
- 🌐 www.drakensberg.co.za
- 💳 Cash recommended in remote areas
- 🥾 Proper hiking boots essential
Discover Drakensberg in a 4×4
The Drakensberg Mountains offer some of South Africa\’s most dramatic 4×4 routes. Navigate steep mountain passes, cross remote river crossings and access hidden valleys that are completely inaccessible to ordinary vehicles.
A 4×4 is essential for exploring the more remote areas of the Drakensberg and reaching the most spectacular viewpoints and hiking trail starting points.
Ready to Explore South Africa?
Start your journey through South Africa\’s most spectacular natural wonders today.