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Drakensberg Grand Traverse
The Drakensberg Grand Traverse is a rigorous trek across some of South Africa's highest peaks, offering a challenging and remote experience. It's a route less traveled, where you'll navigate unmarked paths and encounter diverse landscapes, from rocky escarpments to rolling grasslands.
Distances
- 10 - 14 days, 202 km, +6,900 m, 3,482 m high point
Route
- through hike
- starting in Sentinel Car Park
- ending in Bushman’s Neck Border Post
When to go
- March to June
- September to November
Embark on a challenging multi-day trek across the stunning Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa, experiencing breathtaking vistas and rugged terrain.
Day 1
Sentinel Park to Rat Hole Cave (3,000 m)
Distance: 16 kmElevation change: +450 m
The journey offers breathtaking views of the natural surroundings and can be a moderately challenging hike.
Day 2
To Ntonjelana Pass (2,850 m)
Distance: 22 kmElevation change: -150 m
Hikers will traverse rugged terrain, ascend steep slopes, and enjoy breathtaking vistas as they make their way from the subterranean beauty of Rat Hole Cave to the high-altitude grandeur of Ntonjelana Pass.
Day 3
to Yodler’s Cascades (2,700 m)
Distance: 26 kmElevation change: -150 m
This trail features a mix of rocky terrain and lush vegetation, culminating in the serene beauty of the cascades, making it a rewarding and picturesque journey.
Day 4
to Ship’s Prow Pass (3,300 m)
Distance: 22 kmElevation change: +600 m
This trail guides trekkers through a varied terrain, featuring demanding uphill and downhill sections, and it connects the serene Yodler's Cascades to the awe-inspiring Ship's Prow Pass, providing both breathtaking vistas and an exhilarating adventure in the Drakensberg Mountains.
Day 5
to Mafadi (3,400 m)
Distance: 22 kmElevation change: +100 m
Hikers on this trail will encounter steep inclines and declines, traverse rugged terrain, and ultimately reach the summit of Mafadi, South Africa's highest peak, offering trekkers expansive vistas of the surrounding scenery as their well-earned reward.
Day 6
to Lotheni Pass (2,950 m)
Distance: 24 kmElevation change: -450 m
Embarking on a hike from the towering Mafadi summit to the picturesque Lotheni Pass offers hikers the chance to fully embrace the breathtaking natural beauty of the South African wilderness.
Day 7
to Mkhomazi Pass (2,850 m)
Distance: 21 kmElevation change: -100 m
Starting from the plains beneath Lotheni Pass, the path ascends continuously towards Ka-Masihlenga Pass and Redi Peak. Afterward, it descends past the Hlatimba Caves and traverses the ridge below Mlahlangubo Peak before proceeding downhill, taking a winding path around Lamunram Peak to reach the Mkhomazi Pass campsites.
Day 8
to Pitsaneng River (2,900 m)
Distance: 26 kmElevation change: +50 m
The path winds its way up the picturesque Mohlesi river and eventually arrives at the foothills of Thabana Ntlenyana, from where it proceeds to traverse the Sehonghong river before ascending to the ridge that offers views over the plains leading to the Sani Pass road. Finally, after another 4 kilometers of straightforward terrain, hikers face one last challenging ascent before descending to the stunning campsites at the Pitsaneng River.
Day 9
to Mzimude Caves (3,050 m)
Distance: 21 kmElevation change: -150 m
A generally pleasant and easy walk to the Mashai campsite is followed by a steep climb to cross the ridge below Mashai Peak, followed by a descent to the Leqooa river that guides you to the Mzimude caves.
Day 10
to Bushman’s Nek Border Post (1,800 m)
Distance: 21 kmElevation change: -1,250 m
A delightful and brisk stroll will guide you to Thamathu Pass, although it might require some careful navigation to stay on the optimal path towards Bushman's Nek by following the ridge. Just before reaching the Border Post gates to conclude this remarkable hike, you'll encounter one final river crossing.