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Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass

About Giant's Castle Pass

One of the most identifiable passes of the Drakensberg Mountains, Giant's Castle Pass is a steep, rocky ascent to 3 102m offering stunning views.

Some say it's an extreme 4 hr (6 km) hike from Giant's Hut below, others will say an easy 2hrs, we would say a 3 hr moderately difficult hike with a full backpack.

Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass
Giant's Castle Pass

Hike Directions

Starting from the the contour path intersection for Giants Ridge and Giant's Hut follow the contour path heading towards Giant's Castle Pass. After walking 1.9km's, having crossed a stream four times, the uphill path can be seen to your left (if you continue straight you will end up at the base of Langalibalele Pass).

Follow the path to your left heading uphill until reaching a large boulder. From here walk towards the cairns upwards and to your left (on the southern slope) with the river bed to your right which then levels off and contours down and right to a large bed of boulders in the center of the pass.

Water is generally available here, in winter months however it's best to ensure you have sufficient water starting from the base of the pass. Next is a bit of scrambling on top of the largest rock along the stream/river. After about 100 meters, walk towards the the cairns slightly to your right heading steeply up.

If you find yourself on lots of gravel after following the cairns head further to your right to find an easier route up this steep section. This route eventually flattens and the path becomes very clear heading towards the right of the final gully on your left. The final gully is a short but steep section and requires some easy climbing up a few boulders to the top at 3102 m.

About the area

Historic Giant's Castle Game Reserve, home of the eland and the majestic bearded vulture, lies in the Central Drakensberg region of the Maloti-Drakensberg Park, a World Heritage Site. Giant's Castle camp is situated on a gassy plateau among the deep valleys running down from the face of the High Drakensberg, offering glorious views for hikers and mountain climbers.

Address & Contact details

The starting point is at Giant's Castle Game Reserve, Central Drakensberg.

All enquiries and bookings can be made telephonically, or by e-mail to the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Reservations Office:

  • Telephone: +27 (0) 33 845 1000
  • General Information: + 27 (0) 33 845 1002
  • Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Track Map

GPS Track Details
Track length: 2.03 km
Total ascent: 760 m
Total descent: 0 m
Difficulty Level: 5/5 - Very hard

Location Map