Drakensberg means “Dragon Mountain” and isthe highest mountaian range in South Africa. It offers incredible natural beauty and a wealth of recreational activities. Because of its range of plant life and the richest collection of San rock paintings in Africa, it has been declared a World Heritage Site.
TOP 8 PLACES TO VISIT
1.GIANTS CASTLE GAME RESERVE
The park is considered the home of the eland as well as the bearded vulture. Another highlight is the surperb well presented bushman rock art at the main caves – it is easy to get to and back. Giants Castle is situated in the Central Drakensberg of the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg World Heritage Site.
2.KARKLOOF CANOPY TOUR
Taking place in the magnificent indigenous forest of South Africa the tour is a unique eco-wilderness adventure. Second of its kind in South Africa the canopy tour involves traversing from one platform to another along a steel cable suspended up to 30 meters above the forest floor. The scenery and bird life is spectacular and professional guides provide interesting facts about the forest ecology. From the start a new world unfolds as one gently glides on a steel cable to the first tree platform. From the platforms you have a unbelievable view of this enchanting forrest.
3.SPIONKOP GAME RESERVE
Horse safaris offers you more whether in the mountains, the bush or across the battlefields. The reserve offers opportunities for both the experienced and the beginner to ride this magnificent countryside amongst giraffs and zebras on horseback.
4.THOKOZIA LIFESTYLE CENTRE
Not far from Winterton you find a small collections of shops housed in cool buildings with thatched roofs and achre coloured walls. The “Mall” offers you a children's play area, coffee shop, restaurant, wine cellar, gemstone and craft shop, an outdoor shoe and hiking gear, a clothing, and a jewellery shop. You can buy handwoven rugs, deli style food, a mug of coffee and have a massage all in one space.
5.AFRICAN LOOM
Showcase the talents of local Zulu women who produce the warm and vibrant products. Gretta Sibisi and her team of eight dye, weave and sew, exceptionally attractive high quality soft furnishing products of unique character for interior design and décor. Bedspreads and curtains, cushion covers and shoulder bags, tablecloths and place mats, throws and hammocks, are just some of the products our fabric of warm, rich texture and quality are made into.
6.GIANTS CASTLE GAME RESERVE
With over 140 species of birds such as the Blue Crane, Crowned Crane, Wattled Crane, Secretary Bird, Southern Bald Ibis, Cape Vulture, Black Eagle and the Bearded Vulture. The Bald Ibis has made a home amongst the cliffs while the Secretary Bird can be seen walking through the grassland areas. The South African Crane Foundation Center was built in order to study and breed these magnificent creatures.
7.ARDMORE CERAMIC ART STUDIO
Ceramics on offer ranging from functional domestic ware to sculptural art in the decorative African tradition. The artists combine the elements of their tribal tradition with the uniquely naive perspective of a new world.
8.DRAKENSBERG BALLOONING
See Giants Castle, the Amphitheatre and exquisite panoramic views from a hot air balloon trip over KwaZulu Natal. Balloon rides are in the mornings before sunrise, allowing you the best view of the sunset from the skies above. A delicious breakfast is served once you are back at the launch site. You will receive a certificate of bravery at the end as proof of your wonderful flight.
OTHER PLACES TO SEE OR THINGS TO DO
- Gudu Falls Hike
- Didima Rock Art Centre
- Trout Fishing at Glengarry
- Sani Spoors
- Gzalingenwa Cave Hike
- Old Kraal and Yellowood Forest Trail
- Birding up Sani Pass
- Fly Fishing at Penwarn
- Drakensberg Ice Climbing
- Abseiling in the Drakensberg
- Matatiele Museum
- Drakensberg Kiddies Adventure Park
- Ploughman’s Kop Trails
- Mashai Pass and Rhino Peak
- Cathedral Peak Wine Estate
- Champagne Valley White Water Kayaking
- Champagne White Water Rubing or Gechoing
- The Winterton Museum
- Van Reenens Little Church and Tea Garden
- Himeville Museum
- Mnweni Cultural and Hiking Centre
Best time to visit is from September to November as well from March to May when the weather is stable.
