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TThe soaring peaks of South Africa's Drakensberg mountain range run in a ragged sickle shape along the eastern part of the country. Their highest summits stand shoulder to shoulder with Lesotho's Maloti mountains, intercepting any clouds dragging rain up from the subtropical Indian Ocean coastline.
Together they create the largest water factory in Africa. The Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Conservation and Development Area is safeguarding this critical water catchment area. The towering castles of basalt and pristine grassy uplands funnel the rain steadily downwards in a series of clear streams feeding the east-flowing Tugela and Umzimvubu rivers, as well as South Africa's mother river, the Orange, which flows west.
Peer upwards at the Drakensberg's massive Amphitheatre on South Africa's side of the Transfrontier programme and you will see the thin thread of the Tugela River tumbling off the edge − the second highest waterfall in the world.
The craggy basalt mountains, flanked by sandstone foothills, are the last remnants of lava that poured out the ground as Gondwana split apart 180 million years ago. These sensitive highlands are also home to some of southern Africa's rarest birds − the wattled crane, bald ibis and the bone-eating bearded vulture.
The alpine vegetation of the Drakensberg transfrontier nature reserve is very sensitive to disturbance (by overgrazing or trampling). This is also a sanctuary for various wetland springs, mires, seeps and bogs that are a crucial part of the 'water factory'.
One of the best times to visit the Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Conservation and Development Area is between November and February, when the grasslands are often ablaze with flowers − unusual fynbos proteas, orange African gladioli, red river lilies, the aptly named red-hot pokers (kniphofia), and the more subtle ground orchids.
On the Lesotho side, you may even be lucky enough to spot the very rare spiral aloe, endemic to the region.
Did You Know?
Travel tips & planning info
Who to contact
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife
Tel: +27 (0)33 845 1999
Email: bookings@kznwildlife.com
How to get here
The Drakensberg mountains are a few hours inland from Durban (which has an airport). You could also drive from Johannesburg or Pretoria, crossing into Lesotho through the spectacular Sani Pass - it's only suitable for 4x4 vehicles, but there are plans to tar the road for ordinary sedans soon.
Best time to visit
Every season has its delights, and there are times you'll experience all four in one day. You'll often see snow in winter, and spectacular thunderstorms in summer. Autumn and spring are particularly pleasant.
Things to do
Hiking, river rafting, mountain biking and bird watching.
What to pack
Winters are icy, so come prepared. In summer, bring a light raincoat. Don't forget hat and sunscreen, and, of course, your camera.
Where to stay
On the South African side, you can choose between camping or self-catering chalets all the way up to luxury guesthouses and hotels. Lesotho's accommodation is comfortable, but usually more rustic.
Related links
- Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife
- Tourism KwaZulu-Natal
- Peace Parks Foundation - Maloti Drakensberg Transfrontier Programme
- Visit Lesotho
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