Central Drakensberg and northern Drakensberg form one region, and by far
the best example of this section of the Drakensberg Mountains is
Giants Castle National Park. Essentially the experience in any part of this region is the same,
where you have the opportunity to hike the lower reaches of the Drakensberg
Mountains or otherwise stay low in one of the valleys. What makes Giants Castle
more interesting is the large choice of trails and lack of other people. I
suppose it won't stay that way forever, but the experience of walking in the mountains
and not seeing another soul can still be found here. From Giants Castle, looking
south, the mountains become softer, less dramatic, but make no mistake--hiking
trails in this gentler landscape is just as good and should be included in your
trip. Kamberg is a really good spot, where the added attraction of the best bushman rock art is available.
Bushman Rock Art is most definitely a reason to visit the Drakernsberg
Mountains The excellent video presentation before the 3-hour guided tour at
Kamberg gives a
great explanation of the history of the people, as well as the rock art at game
pass shelter. The rock art at Giants Castle at the main caves is also good and
is a very easy walk. The Didima Rock Art Centre at Cathedral Peak offers a great
presentation although the paintings are reproductions. All rock art must be
viewed with a guide.
Horseback riding through the foothills of the Drakensberg is an experience not to
be missed. Sengani horse trails offers safe trails for beginners and experienced alike, and
Spionkop game reserve even offers game viewing on horseback.
Steeped in history, the Battlefields Region offers enthralling tales of
British, Boer, Zulu, and Voortrekker history. The Anglo Boer War reached as far
south as Mooi River, and the many sites are best visited with a specialist guide
The region offers a fun and fascinating collection of art galleries, craft
shops, cheese tastings, leather work, antiques, clothing, gifts, and pottery. All
the activities represent a unique collection of South African creativity. Take a
slow journey to view outstanding galleries such as Millgate, Indigo Fields
Gallery, and Zombeza. Community development projects like Eyethu Ceramics and
Thandanani Craft uplift local communities allowing tourism a wider benefit.
A trip up Sani Pass into Lesotho and a visit to the highest pub in Africa is
a must. It’s a dramatic 4x4 trail climbing 1,330m in 6.5km. Passports are required.
Game viewing is available at Weenen, Spionkop, Umgeni Valley, and Golden Gate.
For birders, the Lammergeyer hide at Giants Castle the Crane Foundation at
Kamberg and the bird of prey display at Falcon Ridge are highlights. Fort
Durnford in Estcourt offers one of the most complete bird egg collections in
South Africa.