KwaZulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa's most popular holiday destination, boasts a stunning coastline stretching from Port Edward to Mozambique and the majestic Drakensberg mountain range along its western border. The Drakensberg, which also forms the boundary with Lesotho, is a hiker's paradise, offering some of the country's most breathtaking landscapes.

Explore the Drakensberg's Hiking Trails

The Drakensberg offers a wide range of hiking trails to suit all levels of experience. From gentle strolls through scenic valleys to challenging climbs to the summit of towering peaks, there's something for everyone. Discover hidden waterfalls, traverse alpine meadows, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Experience the Beauty of KwaZulu-Natal

Beyond the Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal offers a wealth of other hiking opportunities. Explore the lush forests of the Zululand region, hike along the coast, or discover the scenic trails of the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park. With its diverse landscapes and stunning scenery, KwaZulu-Natal is a hiker's dream come true.

Bushman's Nek Nature Reserve is a picturesque sanctuary nestled in the Southern Drakensberg Mountains of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. This reserve offers visitors breathtaking views, diverse ecosystems, and a chance to experience the tranquility of the wilderness. With its towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, Bushman's Nek is a haven for nature enthusiasts and hikers. The reserve is also home to the historic Bushman's Nek Hotel, a charming accommodation option for those seeking a comfortable and memorable stay.

Cobham, a 52,000-hectare expanse within the Southern Drakensberg Park, is approximately 150 kilometers from Pietermaritzburg. Defined by the towering Hodgson's Peaks that cradle the Giants Cup, Cobham offers breathtaking scenery and a variety of outdoor activities. Explore its expansive grasslands, dotted with unique rock formations and crystal-clear streams. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this natural haven, where you can hike, fish, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning views.

Garden Castle Reserve, covering 35,300 hectares, offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors. Dominated by the impressive Rhino Peak, which extends approximately 2 kilometers from the main escarpment, the area features unique sandstone formations and stunning landscapes. Explore the reserve's hiking trails, ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging treks, and discover the breathtaking beauty of the Drakensberg Mountains. Immerse yourself in the natural environment and experience the tranquility of this remarkable conservation area.

Historic Giant's Castle Game Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is nestled within the Central Drakensberg region of the Maloti-Drakensberg Park. Renowned as the home of the elusive eland and the majestic bearded vulture, this reserve offers a captivating experience for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The Giant's Castle camp is perched atop a grassy plateau, overlooking the deep valleys that descend from the towering High Drakensberg. This prime location provides hikers and climbers with breathtaking panoramic views while immersing them in the natural beauty of the region.

Highmoor Nature Reserve, nestled between Kamberg and Lotheni to the south and Giants Castle to the north, is a 14,749-hectare expanse within the Mkhomazi Wilderness Area. This reserve boasts a remarkable diversity of rare, endemic, and endangered species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Visitors to Highmoor are drawn back time and again by the unparalleled sense of freedom that permeates its vast landscapes of mountains, grasslands, and streams. The reserve features seven discreet campsites, renowned as the highest and most charming in KwaZulu-Natal, offering a truly immersive experience in the heart of the wilderness.

The Maloti-Drakensberg Park is a magnificent natural area that spans across the borders of Lesotho and South Africa. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its dramatic mountain landscapes, pristine rivers, and diverse ecosystems.

The Drakensberg Mountains, which form the eastern boundary of the park, are the highest in Southern Africa, with peaks reaching over 3,000 meters. 

Monks Cowl, a gateway to South Africa's breathtaking mountain wilderness, is named after the distinctive peak separating Champagne Castle and Cathedral Peak. This area provides access to the Mlambonja and Mdedelelo mountain wilderness areas, offering hikers and nature enthusiasts an unparalleled experience. Explore rugged landscapes, traverse pristine forests, and encounter diverse flora and fauna as you journey through these captivating wilderness regions.