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Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Drakensberg Walking Tour, exploring the breathtaking landscapes of South Africa's UNESCO World Heritage-listed Drakensberg Mountains. This small group tour offers a unique opportunity to hike to the top of the iconic Amphitheatre and witness the majestic Tugela Falls, the second highest waterfall in the world. Enjoy the comfort of 3-star hotels and a mountain lodge, with meals included throughout your journey. Guided by English-speaking local experts, you'll traverse diverse terrains, from steep ascents to undulating paths, encountering stunning vistas and diverse wildlife. With a focus on hiking, adventure, and nature, this tour promises an exhilarating experience for those with a good level of fitness and a love for the great outdoors. ...more ...less
Highlights
Hiking in the spectacular Drakensberg Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage region
Trek to the top of the Amphitheatre in the Drakensbergs
Hike to the cliff-face where Tugela Falls, the second highest in the world, cascades 948m
Explore the scenic Royal Natal National Park
Experience the breathtaking views from the Amphitheatre escarpment
Spot wildlife such as Eland and various vulture species in their natural habitat
Enjoy the diverse landscapes, including sandstone cliffs and yellowwood forests
Itinerary
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Upon arrival at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport, please make your way to the Information counter in the International Arrivals Hall where you will meet a representative from Safari Club Hotel who will arrange your complimentary shuttle. Check in and spend the rest of the day/evening at leisure. Overnight: Safari Club Hotel. ...more ...less
Day 2
:
Transfer to the Drakensberg Mountains (World Heritage Site)
Location: Drakensberg Mountains
Accommodation Name: The Cavern
Meals Included: Dinner
You will be collected from your hotel at around 8:00am and transferred to your lodge in the Drakensberg region (approx. 4 hours drive). Remainder of day at leisure. Dinner and overnight: The Cavern.
Hike from the Top Gate up through Sugar Loaf Gap. Part way up the Sugar Loaf itself, take a right-hand track that goes behind the peak. This leads to Cold Hill, ascending about 500 m. Follow the line of the fence and around Broome Hill. Cross the fence, and proceed down the slope of Plowman’s Kop for about 2 km, where the stream is seen on the right, nestling in the valley. Note: it is easy to make a mistake just after crossing the fence by following a strong contour path instead. Towards the end of Plowman’s Kop slopes, ease right, dropping gently into the valley, picking up the path to the lip of Goodoo Falls. Swim in the pools and have lunch at the top of the falls. Hike back to The Cavern the same way, or descend to Royal Natal National Park for a drive back to The Cavern. There is one longer feasible alternative. Climb out of the valley on the left side (if looking out over the falls). A strong path leads to the Mudslide (aptly named in summer). If time permits a small diversion can be taken by turning off the Mudslide path near the top, and climbing, on the right of the path, onto the very end of Plowman’s Kop. Brilliant views of the Amphitheatre and Dooley await. Look at the “cracks” in the rocks on the left hand side of the kop at the very end. These must be at least 300 m deep. Back down the Mudslide, using chain ladders as necessary. Turn left along the strong contour path at the bottom. Follow this past the Grotto, around Castle Rocks, around The Diamond and over Surprise Ridge, back to The Cavern.Dinner and overnight: The Cavern. NOTE - This trek can be quite strenuous and is very steep at times
Day 4
:
“Cavern Big 5” Hike (approx 18 kms; 8 hours)
Location: Drakensberg
Accommodation Name: The Cavern
Meals Included: Dinner
This morning we ascend for approximately two hours up to Hlolela (2127m), via Scilla Gully, and then on to the formation known as the Bridge of the Battleship. From the Battleship we will hike via several steep ascents and descents, taking the Devil's Staircase en route to our lunch stop in a large cavern. After lunch and a short break, we will hike along the ridges and then down to our lodge. There are several options to shorten the walk today if weather or energy levels require it. Today is the best chance to see Eland, the largest of the antelope family. Imposing and elegant, both males and females bear tightly spiralled horns, those of the males being heavier. The range of habitats we traverse and the ever-changing views today are also highlights. Dinner and overnight: The Cavern. NOTE - The next 2 nights we will be staying at a simple mountain lodge with limited storage space. If you have any excess luggage it can be stored tonight and will be collected at the end of Day 7 on our vehicle transfer back to Johannesburg.
Day 5
:
Sugarloaf to Witsieshoek Rest Camp (approx 14 kms; 7 hours)
Location: Witsieshoek
Accommodation Name: Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge
Meals Included: Dinner
The terrain today is undulating with a few steep slopes and some fairly easy scrambles. There are several paths leading behind some hills to Sugar Loaf Gap. Vultures often soar over Sugar Loaf, with two species found here. The Cape Vulture is endemic, found only in this area of southern Africa. They are gregarious creatures and while they spread out to forage, each can see the next and they will all arrive at a carcass within a few minutes. The Bearded Vulture (or Lammergeyer) is solitary, preferring old kills and even dry bones that other scavengers cannot manage. If the bone is too big to swallow, the Lammergeyer carries it high in the air and drops it on a big rock to crack the bone open. If we are very lucky we may witness this process. The rusty colour of the Lammergeyer is derived from iron-rich rocks and must be renewed after every moult to impress the opposite sex. From Sugar Loaf Gap, the path to our mountain lodge is undulating and rises slowly on the ascent towards it. Overnight and dinner: Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge.
Day 6
:
Amphitheatre ascent (approx 10km; 8 hours)
Location: Amphitheatre
Accommodation Name: Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge
Meals Included: Dinner
After breakfast at the lodge, we will be transferred by vehicle to the Sentinel carpark. The trek today is strenuous and the paths on the escarpment are at times indistinct so we must adhere to our guide's instructions. We will commence along a well- maintained path which ascends gradually towards the base of the Sentinel Massif. From here, the path passes below the Western buttresses, with the land sloping steeply to the north and east. There are wonderful views of the Malutis and the Witsieshoek plateaux. After about 3 km we will reach a section of the track with chain ladders. After negotiating two stages of the rock wall, it is only a short scramble from there to the top of the escarpment where we will spend the better part of the day in exploration. Weather permitting, we will walk to the edge of the Amphitheatre, where the Tugela Falls (second highest waterfall in the world) cascades 948m over the cliff-face into Tugela Gorge. This is a truly impressive sight. We will also explore other trails to interesting vantage points along the Amphitheatre escarpment. From elevations around 2500m the surrounding landscape is spectacular. Our return route is again via the Gulley of the Chain Ladders. After an exciting day we meet our vehicle for the transfer back to the mountain lodge where we can reflect on the challenges of the day. Overnight and dinner: Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge.
Day 7
:
Descend to Mahai Camp (4 hours) then drive to Johannesburg
Johannesburg, South Africa
Location: Johannesburg
Accommodation Name: Safari Club Hotel
The hike to Mahai Camp is reasonably energetic, involving gentler hills rather than craggy mountains. The route is very scenic with waterfalls, paths skirting sandstone cliffs, and stands of yellowwood forest as we cross the Mahai river. (Please note: there is a compulsory 30 ZAR per person park fee payable locally at the exit gate for Kwazulu-Natal National Park. This cannot be paid in advance and is NOT included in the trip cost). The transfer vehicle will meet us while we enjoy a picnic lunch. We will drive to our first lodge, collect our stored luggage, and continue to our hotel in Johannesburg. Overnight: Safari Club Hotel.
Day 8
:
In Johannesburg, where trip concludes
Johannesburg, South Africa
Location: Johannesburg
Safari Club Hotel will provide a complimentary transfer for you to Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport, where trip concludes.
What's Included
Accommodation
7 nights hotel
English speaking local walking guides in the Drakensberg
The tour includes English speaking local walking guides in the Drakensberg.
National park and conservation fees
National park and conservation fees are included in the tour.
What's Not Included
International flights and airport departure taxes
International flights and airport departure taxes are not included in the tour.
Visas
Visas are not included in the tour.
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary are not included in the tour.
Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks are not included in the tour.
Items of a personal nature
Items of a personal nature such as laundry, phone calls, and spending money are not included in the tour.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included in the tour.
Excess baggage costs
Excess baggage costs are not included in the tour.
Tips
Tips are not included in the tour.
Compulsory park fee on Day 7
On Day 7, a compulsory 120 ZAR per person park fee is payable locally at the exit gate for Kwazulu-Natal National Park. This fee is not included in the trip cost.
Accommodation
Enjoy 7 nights in comfortable 3-star hotels and a mountain lodge on a twin-share basis. A compulsory single supplement is available for this trip - please ask for current costs.
What You Carry
In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing, a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip balm etc.
Grading
This expedition involves trekking through undulating country, often untracked, for up to 5 - 8 hours a day at a steady pace. To undertake this level of activity you will need a good level of trekking fitness and be surefooted. Some days involve hard walking or scrambling over rugged and steep terrain, including boulders, scree, rocky ground, and grasslands. Chain ladders may be encountered on some routes, so a good head for heights is also necessary. Some routes may also pass through snow in the winter. As a minimum, we recommend 45 minutes of aerobic type exercise, three to five times a week for three months leading up to your trek; eg. hard walking, jogging or cycling. To prepare for a walking holiday we recommend you take every opportunity to walk up and down stairs and/or hills, for leg strengthening and aerobic fitness. Please remember the fitter you are the more you will enjoy your holiday.
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Mode of Transport
Transportation includes a complimentary shuttle from Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport to the Safari Club Hotel and transfers to the Drakensberg region. A vehicle transfer is provided for the return journey to Johannesburg.
Check out our Q&As
What type of accommodation is provided during the Drakensberg Walking Tour?
The tour includes 7 nights in comfortable 3-star hotels and a mountain lodge on a twinshare basis. A compulsory single supplement is available for this trip.
Are meals included in the Drakensberg Walking Tour?
Yes, the tour includes 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 5 dinners.
What should I carry in my daypack during the hikes?
You should carry extra warm clothing, a rainjacket, a water bottle, camera gear, valuables, and personal items such as sunscreen and lip balm.
What level of fitness is required for the Drakensberg Walking Tour?
A good level of trekking fitness is required as the tour involves trekking through undulating country, often untracked, for up to 5-8 hours a day at a steady pace. Some days involve hard walking or scrambling over rugged and steep terrain, including boulders, scree, rocky ground, and grasslands. A good head for heights is also necessary as chain ladders may be encountered on some routes.
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Is there a park fee that needs to be paid during the tour?
Yes, on Day 7, there is a compulsory 120 ZAR per person park fee payable locally at the exit gate for Kwazulu-Natal National Park. This fee is also payable on Day 3 if you decide not to do the return hike back to the Cavern. It cannot be paid in advance and is not included in the trip cost.
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What wildlife might I see during the Drakensberg Walking Tour?
During the tour, you may see Eland, the largest of the antelope family, and two species of vultures: the Cape Vulture and the Bearded Vulture (or Lammergeyer).
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.
What about environmental impact?
We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.
What should I pack?
Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.
Are tips included in my trip price?
Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.
Am I suited to small-group travel?
We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.
Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?
While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
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Reviews from travellers on this tour
Neil Davis(Richmond, VIC Australia)
Drakensberg Walking Tour
2 Nov 2024
Magnificent landscape and challenging hikes. This is definitely a challenging itinerary; however, the views are worth it. We experienced outstanding service and flexibility that ensured we were able to fully enjoy our hiking adventure in the Drakensburg.
Peter Kardashinsky(Hazelwood Park, SA Australia)
Drakensberg Walking Tour
11 Jun 2024
The hikes were great, the accommodation was fine, the transfers worked, but the description of the trip is in need of an update.
Firstly, the National Park entrance fee, mentioned on the last hiking day, is 120 Rand per person, not 30 (if you are an Australian). You will also need to pay this on the first hiking day if you decide not to do the return leg back to the Cavern.
The write-up mentions day 4 as being strenuous, but actually this was the easiest of the first 4 hiking days that involved ascents. The "Big 5" hike on day 2 was the most strenuous, with 18km and close to 1000m ascent in total, and a scramble up a gully.
On the first hiking day, on the guides advice, we did not return to the Cavern, but did some exploring around the Grotto and then walked down to the National Park. There is another option to do a circular route back to The Cavern via the Hole in the Wall track which the guide said we were capable of doing, but we had booked the return transport from the National Park.
It should be mentioned explicitly in the notes that on the 3rd hiking day you will need to pack and carry whatever you need for the day 3,4,5 hikes and the 2 night stay in between. Day 3 is a 700m ascent. The reason given for the need to carry the extra gear is "lack of storage space" in the small hotel, but the real reason is that while the hike between the 2 hotels is 14km, driving takes over 120km, so logistics are difficult.
The last hiking day is a 700m descent and our guide took us down via The Crack route which involved ladders. We were down in less than 3 hrs, because the guide had other work in the afternoon.
The guides as The Cavern were great. The guide on days 4,5 was so-so. He spent most of the time on day 4 chatting to a couple of young girls that joined the walk, but the track was so easy we really didn't need his services anyway.
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Mark Daffey(Oak Park, VIC, Australia)
Drakensberg Walking Tour
04 Nov 2016
A nicely varied itinerary in two of South Africa's more desirable locations. An excellent way to combine active travel with wildlife viewing and great accommodation. Five stars!
Qiaoling Kardashinsky(Hazelwood Park, SA Australia)
Drakensberg Walking Tour
19 Jun 2024
Trip turned out to be different to trip notes. Trip notes mention limited luggage storage from hiking day 3 to hiking day 5. It turned out no luggage transfer at all and I ended up trying to carry everything I would need for 3 days in my 24 litre day pack. If we were told about this, I would have prepared a bigger day pack and prepared differently.
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World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.
Low Deposit
World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of
400 GBPper person
or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Drakensberg Walking Tour
8 Days Starting and ending in Johannesburg, South Africa
Visiting:
Johannesburg, Drakensberg Mountains, Royal Natal National Park, Drakensberg, Witsieshoek, Amphitheatre ...more ...less
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Part way up the Sugar Loaf itself, take a right-hand track that goes behind the peak. This leads to Cold Hill, ascending about 500 m. Follow the line of the fence and around Broome Hill. Cross the fence, and proceed down the slope of Plowman’s Kop for about 2 km, where the stream is seen on the right, nestling in the valley. Note: it is easy to make a mistake just after crossing the fence by following a strong contour path instead. Towards the end of Plowman’s Kop slopes, ease right, dropping gently into the valley, picking up the path to the lip of Goodoo Falls. Swim in the pools and have lunch at the top of the falls. Hike back to The Cavern the same way, or descend to Royal Natal National Park for a drive back to The Cavern. There is one longer feasible alternative. Climb out of the valley on the left side (if looking out over the falls). A strong path leads to the Mudslide (aptly named in summer). If time permits a small diversion can be taken by turning off the Mudslide path near the top, and climbing, on the right of the path, onto the very end of Plowman’s Kop. Brilliant views of the Amphitheatre and Dooley await. Look at the “cracks” in the rocks on the left hand side of the kop at the very end. These must be at least 300 m deep. Back down the Mudslide, using chain ladders as necessary. Turn left along the strong contour path at the bottom. Follow this past the Grotto, around Castle Rocks, around The Diamond and over Surprise Ridge, back to The Cavern.Dinner and overnight: The Cavern. NOTE - This trek can be quite strenuous and is very steep at times","lat":"-28.703671","lng":"28.920267"},{"title":"Day 4: “Cavern Big 5” Hike (approx 18 kms; 8 hours)","name":"Drakensberg","description":"This morning we ascend for approximately two hours up to Hlolela (2127m), via Scilla Gully, and then on to the formation known as the Bridge of the Battleship. From the Battleship we will hike via several steep ascents and descents, taking the Devil's Staircase en route to our lunch stop in a large cavern. After lunch and a short break, we will hike along the ridges and then down to our lodge. There are several options to shorten the walk today if weather or energy levels require it. Today is the best chance to see Eland, the largest of the antelope family. Imposing and elegant, both males and females bear tightly spiralled horns, those of the males being heavier. The range of habitats we traverse and the ever-changing views today are also highlights. Dinner and overnight: The Cavern. NOTE - The next 2 nights we will be staying at a simple mountain lodge with limited storage space. If you have any excess luggage it can be stored tonight and will be collected at the end of Day 7 on our vehicle transfer back to Johannesburg.","lat":"-30.559482","lng":"22.937506"},{"title":"Day 5: Sugarloaf to Witsieshoek Rest Camp (approx 14 kms; 7 hours)","name":"Witsieshoek","description":"The terrain today is undulating with a few steep slopes and some fairly easy scrambles. There are several paths leading behind some hills to Sugar Loaf Gap. Vultures often soar over Sugar Loaf, with two species found here. The Cape Vulture is endemic, found only in this area of southern Africa. They are gregarious creatures and while they spread out to forage, each can see the next and they will all arrive at a carcass within a few minutes. The Bearded Vulture (or Lammergeyer) is solitary, preferring old kills and even dry bones that other scavengers cannot manage. If the bone is too big to swallow, the Lammergeyer carries it high in the air and drops it on a big rock to crack the bone open. If we are very lucky we may witness this process. The rusty colour of the Lammergeyer is derived from iron-rich rocks and must be renewed after every moult to impress the opposite sex. From Sugar Loaf Gap, the path to our mountain lodge is undulating and rises slowly on the ascent towards it. Overnight and dinner: Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge.","lat":"-28.516676","lng":"28.826396"},{"title":"Day 6: Amphitheatre ascent (approx 10km; 8 hours)","name":"Amphitheatre","description":"After breakfast at the lodge, we will be transferred by vehicle to the Sentinel carpark. The trek today is strenuous and the paths on the escarpment are at times indistinct so we must adhere to our guide's instructions. We will commence along a well- maintained path which ascends gradually towards the base of the Sentinel Massif. From here, the path passes below the Western buttresses, with the land sloping steeply to the north and east. There are wonderful views of the Malutis and the Witsieshoek plateaux. After about 3 km we will reach a section of the track with chain ladders. After negotiating two stages of the rock wall, it is only a short scramble from there to the top of the escarpment where we will spend the better part of the day in exploration. Weather permitting, we will walk to the edge of the Amphitheatre, where the Tugela Falls (second highest waterfall in the world) cascades 948m over the cliff-face into Tugela Gorge. This is a truly impressive sight. We will also explore other trails to interesting vantage points along the Amphitheatre escarpment. From elevations around 2500m the surrounding landscape is spectacular. Our return route is again via the Gulley of the Chain Ladders. After an exciting day we meet our vehicle for the transfer back to the mountain lodge where we can reflect on the challenges of the day. Overnight and dinner: Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge.","lat":"-28.759444","lng":"28.912222"},{"title":"Day 7: Descend to Mahai Camp (4 hours) then drive to Johannesburg","name":"Johannesburg","description":"The hike to Mahai Camp is reasonably energetic, involving gentler hills rather than craggy mountains. The route is very scenic with waterfalls, paths skirting sandstone cliffs, and stands of yellowwood forest as we cross the Mahai river. (Please note: there is a compulsory 30 ZAR per person park fee payable locally at the exit gate for Kwazulu-Natal National Park. This cannot be paid in advance and is NOT included in the trip cost). The transfer vehicle will meet us while we enjoy a picnic lunch. We will drive to our first lodge, collect our stored luggage, and continue to our hotel in Johannesburg. Overnight: Safari Club Hotel.","lat":"-26.205647","lng":"28.033719"},{"title":"Day 8: In Johannesburg, where trip concludes","name":"Johannesburg","description":"Safari Club Hotel will provide a complimentary transfer for you to Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport, where trip concludes.","lat":"-26.205647","lng":"28.033719"}]
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