Drakensberg Trails

On this moderate/strenuous graded walking tour we focus on Africa's most spectacular mountains south of Kilimanjaro. In Lesotho, we'll walk with colourful Basotho people in a land rich in deep ravines, waterfalls and tribal culture and hike to the highest point in Southern Africa, Thabana Ntlenyana. Our last four days are spent hiking trails in Kamberg and the Royal Natal National Park on the South African side of the Drakensberg - a massive and strikingly beautiful rampart of caves, ridges, deep gorges, pinnacles and overhangs. Trek to Remote Tribal Villages Leaving Jo'burg we drive south into the Kingdom of Lesotho, Africa's most mountainous country. From Malealea, we'll trek into the Thaba-Putsoa mountains. We stay overnight in traditional huts in an isolated Basotho village and enjoy the wonderful scenery of waterfalls and giant flowering aloes during the day. There's plenty of time to learn more about the unique Basotho pastoral lifestyle and customs. Highest Peak in Southern Africa Next, we drive through Lesotho's stunning central mountains, crossing several high passes before reaching lonely Sani Top Chalet (2874 m) in the Drakensberg range. From here there is an option to hike to the summit of Southern Africa's highest peak, Thabana Ntlenyana (3482 m) or simply enjoy easier walks in the surrounding area. A dramatic 1000m descent down the Sani Pass takes us back into South Africa. Kamberg & Royal Natal N. Park Our final days are spent enjoying some superb walks through enchanting landscapes in the Drakensberg. First, we'll spend a day in the Kamberg area then move further north to the Royal Natal N. Park to Singubala for our last three nights. Here numerous walking trails are possible to suit all abilities: the Tugela Gorge and Falls and Sigubudu Ridge and Valley are popular options. The scenic highlight of our stay though may well be a panoramic view of the 'Amphitheatre'.