Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, located in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its breathtaking natural beauty and immense cultural significance. Covering over 240,000 hectares, the park is part of the majestic Drakensberg Mountain Range, the highest in Southern Africa. It is renowned for its dramatic peaks, rich biodiversity, crystal-clear streams, waterfalls, and the largest collection of rock art in Africa, created by the San people over a period of 4,000 years.
How to Reach Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, KwaZulu-Natal
The park is accessible by road from major cities in KwaZulu-Natal and the surrounding provinces:
- By Car from Durban: The park is approximately 250 km (3-4 hours' drive) northwest of Durban. Take the N3 highway towards Pietermaritzburg and follow signs toward towns like Winterton, Underberg, or Bergville, depending on which section of the park you're visiting.
- By Car from Johannesburg: It's about 400-500 km (5-6 hours) south of Johannesburg, depending on the entry point.
- By Air: The nearest major airport is King Shaka International Airport in Durban. From there, you can rent a car to drive to the park.
- By Bus/Tour: Several tour operators offer group trips or private tours to the park with accommodation and activities included.
Weather at Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park
The park has a temperate mountain climate:
- Summer (November to March): Warm and rainy with daytime temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. Thunderstorms are common in the afternoons.
- Winter (May to August): Cold and dry, with daytime highs around 15°C and freezing temperatures at night. Snow may fall on higher peaks.
The best time to visit is during the dry months from May to September for hiking and rock art viewing. Spring (September to October) offers blooming wildflowers and moderate weather.
Timings to Visit
The park is open year-round. Most access gates are open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Specific opening hours may vary slightly by region (e.g., Royal Natal, Cathedral Peak, Giant's Castle).
It is advisable to arrive early in the day for hikes and outdoor activities, especially in summer when afternoon storms can develop quickly.
Why Famous for Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, KwaZulu-Natal?
The park is famous for:
- San Rock Art: Home to over 600 rock art sites and 35,000 individual paintings, making it the largest and most concentrated group of rock paintings in Africa south of the Sahara.
- Spectacular Scenery: Towering basalt cliffs, lush valleys, waterfalls, and rolling foothills create an awe-inspiring natural landscape.
- World Heritage Status: Recognized by UNESCO for both natural and cultural value.
- Biodiversity: A hotspot for endemic species of plants, birds, and mammals.
Entry and Visit Details
Entry fees vary depending on the section of the park:
- Adults: Approx. R65 – R90 per person
- Children: Approx. R35 – R50 per child
The park is divided into multiple areas with separate entrances, including Giant’s Castle, Royal Natal, Cathedral Peak, and Kamberg. Each has its own visitor centre, hiking trails, and facilities. Camping sites, chalets, and lodges are available for overnight stays, often with advance booking required.
History and Architecture
Ukhahlamba means "Barrier of Spears" in Zulu, reflecting the rugged and imposing nature of the mountain range. The San people inhabited the area for thousands of years, leaving behind a priceless legacy of rock paintings that depict daily life, animals, and spiritual beliefs.
Though the park does not have classical architectural structures, it is rich in ancient cultural expressions carved and painted onto the rock faces of caves and overhangs. Rangers and cultural guides help interpret this heritage during guided tours.
Things to Do at Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park
- Hiking: Trails range from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks. Popular routes include the Amphitheatre hike in Royal Natal and the climb to the Tugela Falls.
- Rock Art Tours: Visit San rock painting sites with expert guides, particularly at Kamberg and Giant’s Castle.
- Bird Watching: Spot the endangered bearded vulture and many endemic species.
- Horse Riding: Several lodges offer horseback trails through the foothills.
- Photography: The park is a photographer’s paradise with dramatic landscapes, sunrises, and wildlife.
- Camping and Star Gazing: Camp under clear skies and enjoy one of the best natural observatories in the region.
Facts about Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park
- The park spans over 240,000 hectares and links to the Maloti Mountains in Lesotho, forming the transfrontier Maloti-Drakensberg Park.
- Tugela Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the world (948 meters), is located in the Royal Natal section.
- The San rock art dates back thousands of years and is well preserved due to the dry mountain climate.
- Home to more than 2,500 plant species, including many endemic to the region.
- Declared a World Heritage Site in 2000 for its natural beauty and cultural significance.
Tips about Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, KwaZulu-Natal
- Wear layered clothing as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day.
- Always carry water, sunscreen, a map, and weatherproof gear when hiking.
- Book guided rock art tours for in-depth understanding of San culture.
- Some trails and campsites require permits—check in advance.
- Travel in groups or inform someone of your hiking route and return time.
- Cell phone signal may be limited in some remote areas—carry a GPS or compass.
- Respect wildlife and do not disturb or damage any rock art or natural features.
