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Drakensberg Region Of KwaZulu Natal
The Drakensberg Mountain range forms part of the Great South African
Escarpment running from the Northern Province south, past Lesotho and the
Eastern Cape into the Southern Cape. From there it moves north of the Cape
Folded Mountains to Sutherland in the Karoo, before continuing northwards
towards Springbok in the Northern Cape.
The KwaZulu Natal Drakensberg forms the high escarpment and boasts peaks
reaching well over 3000m above sea level. The highest in South Africa. “The
Mountain of Dragons”, gives rise to the mighty Tugela River which upon
reaching the Mont-aux-Sources Plateau, plunges a devastating distance in a
display of cascading steps, forming the “Tugela Falls”, one of the highest
waterfalls known to man.
Seemingly older than time itself the formidable Ukhahlamba or “Barrier of
Spears”, was home to ancient KhoiSan
hunter-gatherers. Providing them with food and shelter against the elements and
later enemies such as the Nguni tribes and European farmers. Eventually
displaced, their legacy remains in the form of some 35 000 rock art
paintings, each a pièce de résistance, detailing their daily existence and a
poignant reminder of the fate of these small, unobtrusive and resourceful
inhabitants.
Being included as a world heritage site in 2000, has catapulted this region
onto the world stage and it is now being internationally recognised as an
area rich in both cultural and natural treasures.
Diverse climatic conditions have given rise to a flora and fauna unique to
the KZN Drakensberg region, with a variety of grasses adorning the lower
lying areas and delicate mountain flora found in the higher reaches. Although not a big 5
area, the KZN Drakensberg plays host to a large number of smaller animals
including small antelope, reptiles, Lynx, serval, African wildcat,
black-backed jackals, Cape fox, large spotted genets and otters. Eland can
still be found within the reaches of some of the National Parks and play an
important role as historically, the giant antelope were highly respected by
the San people and are depicted in many of their paintings.
Spirituality has always been synonymous with mountain formations and the
KZN Drakensberg embodies all that is divine.
Drakensberg Accommodation
Everyday pressures are
quickly forgotten in a place where tranquillity reigns. Guests visiting any of the abundant
retreats can indulge in pure solidarity with nature.
A range of accommodation options are on offer to any potential visitor to the Drakensberg Region. Numerous, cosy
Bed and Breakfasts, Self Catering Cottages and Guest Houses scatter this magical landscape. Country Hotels, Game Lodges,
Holiday Resorts, Hotels and Caravan and Camping sites are also available.
Apart from mountaineering and hiking other activities available in the area
include horseback riding, fly-fishing, mountain biking, cultural tours, San
rock art tours, battlefield tours, abseiling, rafting, bird watching,
photographic safaris, art safaris and more.
Click here for Map of Accommodation in KwaZulu Natal
