Drakensberg

Thukela Falls

Flora

In summer (September to April), dramatic thunderstorms occur almost every afternoon, and the hills are flushed with green grass and a rich variety of plants and flowers. For flower lovers, this is the best time to be in the 'Berg. Everlastings are everywhere!The biological diversity of the mountains is exceptional, with 2 153 plant species including spectacular shows of orchids and irises.

Fauna

48 species of mammals exist in the 'Berg. Most of them were decimated by white hunters in the nineteenth century and by 1880 many species were critically endangered. The creation of the World Heritage Site has achieved much in reversing the damage. There are now more than 2 000 Eland roaming this reserve – the highest concentration in South Africa.

Birding

A treat awaits birders, especially in the summer. The wide skies silhouette the graceful shapes of raptors floating on the updrafts and the Giant’s Castle area is famous for it’s vulture restaurants, where animal carcasses are provided. Nearly 300 species of birds have been recorded in the 'Berg. Specials include the Lammergeier Cape vulture, wattled crane, bald ibis and orange-breasted rock-jumper.

Hlatikulu Crane and Wetland Sanctuary

If you’re looking for a day trip in the Central 'Berg, a visit to the Hlatikulu Crane And Wetland Sanctuary is a rather special experience.

Bushmen Rock Art

From the late Stone Age until the mid-19th century, the Bushmen lived in the sandstone caves of the lower 'Berg. But their lives were disrupted in the 1800’s by encroaching settlement in the region. These days the only clues to their way of life are the colourful rock paintings in sandstone overhangs. It is estimated that some 35% of all rock art sites in South Africa are in the 'Berg. There are about 600 sites with more than 40 000 images in the 'Berg. It was declared a World Heritage Site in 2000 mainly because of the concentration of Bushman Rock Paintings in the area.

Hiking

Hikers have been putting on their boots and venturing into the these hills since 1900. The popular trails are well marked and vary from one-hour rambles to multi-day trips designed for the most experienced hikers.

Swimming

On a hike there is nothing quite as refreshing as taking a sip of clear water directly from a mountain stream – or plunging into a cool, clear pool. The water in the 'Berg is filtered through rock and grass and enters the streams clean and sediment free. Water conservation is one of the best reasons for protecting these mountains. This watershed feeds the 3 largest rivers in KwaZulu-Natal – the Thukela, the Mkhomanzi and the Mzimkulu.

Drakensberg Boys' Choir

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