The Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Drakensberg Mountains

The Drakensberg Mountains form the eastern backbone of South Africa and offer some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country. Stretching for more than 1,000 kilometers, the range is divided into the Northern, Central, and Southern Drakensberg, each with its own distinct character and attractions. The north is famous for the dramatic Amphitheatre and Tugela Falls, as well as trips into Lesotho to visit authentic Basotho villages. The central region is known for its hiking trails, scenic valleys, and family-friendly resorts, while the south is home to the iconic Sani Pass, where you can cross into Lesotho and enjoy a beer at what is said to be the highest pub in Africa. With towering peaks, lush valleys, ancient rock art, and diverse wildlife, the Drakensberg offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, this guide will help you make the most of your trip.

How to get to the Drakensberg

The Drakensberg is easily reached from both Johannesburg and Durban, with well-maintained roads leading to the main access points in the north and south. It is therefore a great addition to your South Africa itinerary.

✈️ By Plane: The closest major airports are Durban King Shaka International Airport and O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. From here, a car is the easiest mode of transportation to reach the Drakensberg mountains.

🚗 By Car from Johannesburg: It takes about four to five hours to reach the Northern Drakensberg, following the N3 highway toward Harrismith and Bergville. The Southern Drakensberg is roughly a six to seven hour drive via Howick and Underberg.

🚗 By Car from Durban: The Southern Drakensberg is the most accessible from Durban, only a two and a half to three hour drive to Underberg or Himeville, the base for exploring Sani Pass. The Northern Drakensberg can be reached in about four hours via the N3 and R74 routes.

🚍 By Shuttle: While there are no direct public buses from Durban or Johannesburg to the Drakensberg, several private shuttle and tour companies offer transfers to popular base towns such as Bergville for the north and Underberg or Himeville for the south. This is a great option if you prefer not to drive yourself or want a guided introduction to the region.

🗺️ By Guided Tour: If you prefer not to drive yourself or if you just have a day and want to visit Drakensberg, you can join a guided tour of the Drakensberg Mountains.

Each region offers its own unique charm. The north is famous for its dramatic cliffs and iconic hiking trails, and the south for its serene mountain scenery and cultural connections to Lesotho.

Best Time to Visit the Drakensberg

The Drakensberg is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do:

🌸 Spring & Autumn (April – May, September – October): Mild weather and fewer crowds make these months ideal for hiking and sightseeing.

🌿 Summer (November – March): The landscapes are lush and waterfalls are at their most spectacular. Temperatures are warm, but this is also the rainy season, so afternoon thunderstorms are common.

❄️ Winter (June – August): Dry conditions and clear skies make for perfect hiking weather. In the higher northern and southern peaks, you may even see snow, creating stunning scenery.

Your Guide to the Drakensberg

Hike the Amphitheatre & Visit Tugela Falls (Northern Drakensberg)

The Amphitheatre is one of South Africa’s most iconic landscapes, offering dramatic cliffs and sweeping mountain views. A full-day hike takes you to the top, with panoramic views of Tugela Falls — the second-highest waterfall in the world at 948 meters. The roundtrip is approximately 12–15 km, taking 6–8 hours depending on your exact route and pace.

If you prefer a shorter visit, you can hike directly to Tugela Falls from the base. This route is only 3–4 km and takes 1–2 hours, giving you a less strenuous option while still enjoying the impressive waterfall. For those who want the full experience, you can combine both hikes, adding the Amphitheatre trail to the Tugela Falls hike for a rewarding full-day adventure.

Along the way, you’ll encounter dramatic cliff faces, cascading water, and incredible photographic opportunities, making this hike a highlight of the Northern Drakensberg.

Explore Ancient San Rock Art (Northern Drakensberg)

The Drakensberg is home to hundreds of San rock paintings, especially around Didima Camp and Giant’s Castle Game Reserve. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the lives and stories of the San people.

Trip to Lesotho and Basotho Villages (Northern Drakensberg)

Venture across the border to Lesotho and explore authentic Basotho villages, meet local communities, and shop for handmade crafts. I did this trip starting from Amphitheatre Backpackers, which made organizing transport and visits straightforward. The villages are just a short drive from Bergville or Cathedral Peak, making it a perfect day trip from the Northern Drakensberg.

It’s technically possible to drive yourself, but the roads can be steep, narrow, and unpaved, and smaller village paths may not be well marked. A high-clearance vehicle or 4×4 is recommended. For most travelers, especially those unfamiliar with rural mountain driving, taking a guided tour is safer and more enjoyable. Guides handle navigation, border crossings, and provide cultural insights, helping you fully appreciate Basotho traditions, history, and crafts.

Hike in Royal Natal National Park (Northern Drakensberg)

This park offers a variety of trails for all levels, including the Sentinel Peak hike and Polly Shortts hike. The Sentinel Peak hike is a moderate 8 km round-trip trail that takes around 3–4 hours, leading to a viewpoint with breathtaking panoramas of the Amphitheatre cliff face and Tugela Falls. The Polly Shortts hike is slightly shorter at 6 km and takes 2–3 hours, perfect for those wanting a rewarding hike without committing to a full day. Along the way, you’ll encounter scenic waterfalls, rock pools, and lush valleys, and there are excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, including eland, baboons, klipspringers, and a variety of bird species. The park also offers picnic spots, campsites, and interpretive signage, making it suitable for both day visitors and longer stays.

Drive or Tour Sani Pass (Southern Drakensberg)

The Sani Pass is a legendary 4×4 route connecting the Southern Drakensberg to Lesotho. Experienced drivers can attempt it in their own 4×4, but the route is very challenging, with steep gradients and rough terrain. If you’re unsure, a guided tour is the safest and most enjoyable option. At the top, stop at the Sani Mountain Lodge pub, often cited as the highest pub in Africa.

Hike Cathedral Peak and Long-Distance Trails (Southern Drakensberg)

The Southern Drakensberg offers gentler but still dramatic hikes, perfect for both day-trippers and multi-day adventurers. The Cathedral Peak hike is a must-do for scenery and photography, covering approximately 7 km round-trip and taking 4–6 hours depending on your pace. The trail leads through lush valleys, past waterfalls, and up to stunning viewpoints of the surrounding peaks.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, the region also features long-distance hiking trails, including multi-day routes such as the Sani Pass to Giant’s Castle trail, ranging from 40–80 km and typically taking 3–6 days. These trails allow you to explore remote areas of the mountains, stay in mountain huts or campsites, and fully experience the diverse landscapes, flora, and wildlife of the Southern Drakensberg.

Where to eat in

We didn’t find the cuisine in the mountains particularly outstanding, but we had some decent meals at these spots, and a beer at the top of Africa is of course a must.

Amphitheatre Backpackers Café – Perfect for breakfast or a light lunch before heading out on the trails. Fresh pastries, sandwiches, and excellent coffee make it a welcoming spot to fuel up before exploring the Amphitheatre or nearby hikes.
Cathedral Peak Hotel Restaurant – A more substantial option serving hearty South African meals with a focus on local ingredients. Their game dishes and traditional stews are decent after a long day hiking in the Northern Drakensberg.
Sani Mountain Lodge Restaurant – At the top of the famous Sani Pass in the Southern Drakensberg, this is the highest pub in Africa. Stop here for a meal or simply enjoy a cold drink while taking in the incredible panoramic views of Lesotho.

Where to stay in

The Drakensberg offers everything from rustic backpacker lodges to luxurious mountain retreats. If you have time, it’s worth staying in both the Northern and Southern Drakensberg, as each region offers a different atmosphere. Whether you’re after comfort or character, these stays really stood out:

Malachite Manor (Southern Drakensberg) – A beautiful boutique guesthouse near Underberg that perfectly blends comfort and character. Expect stylish rooms, excellent hospitality, and delicious breakfasts. It is ideal for couples looking for a touch of luxury in the mountains.

Sani Valley Nature Lodges (Southern Drakensberg) – Set beside a tranquil lake surrounded by mountains, this lodge offers self-catering chalets and private hot tubs with breathtaking views. It’s peaceful, romantic, and a great base for exploring Sani Pass or simply relaxing in nature.

Berghouse and Cottages (Northern Drakensberg) – Charming stone cottages with panoramic views of the Amphitheatre and Tugela Valley. Each unit feels private and cozy, with fireplaces for chilly evenings and braai facilities for outdoor dining. Perfect for hikers and photographers alike.

Amphitheatre Backpackers (Northern Drakensberg) – Once one of the region’s top backpacker lodges, it has lost a bit of its former polish but remains a decent, budget-friendly option in a fantastic location. It’s still a convenient base for hikes to Tugela Falls or day trips into Lesotho, especially for travelers on a tighter budget.