Things to do in Drakensberg
Discover the best attractions and experiences Drakensberg has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the ancient and heritage-rich corners of the Drakensberg, from San rock art to UNESCO-listed landscapes.
uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park (UNESCO World Heritage)
Iconic escarpment landscape with remarkable San rock art sites and dramatic peaks.
San Rock Art Cave Sites in the Drakensberg
Ancient cave paintings by the San people scattered around the range.
Museums
Learn about local history and culture at small heritage spaces in the foothills.
Himeville Museum
Local history and settler-era exhibits in the southern Drakensberg.
Underberg Museum
Heritage displays covering agriculture, mining, and regional life.
Religious Monuments
Religious landmarks and hilltop chapels that punctuate the Drakensberg scenery.
St. Patrick's Church, Himeville
A local church serving as a community landmark with scenic surroundings.
Sani Pass Chapel
Small chapel near the mountain pass offering tranquil views.
National & Theme Parks
Drakensberg's protected landscapes offer dramatic hikes, waterfalls, and wildlife habitat.
Royal Natal National Park
Famous for the Amphitheatre and rugged highland trails.
Giant's Castle Game Reserve
Pine-flecked slopes and challenging hikes in a classic Drakensberg setting.
uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park (UNESCO World Heritage)
World Heritage site protecting significant San rock art and towering escarpment.
Tugela Falls
One of the world’s highest waterfalls set in a spectacular valley.
Neighborhoods
Keep to the foothills towns that form the gateway to dramatic hikes and scenic drives.
Himeville
Quaint gateway town with shops, lodging, and base for Drakensberg hikes.
Underberg
Relaxed mountain village with access to scenic trails and Sani Pass.
Winterton
Rugged-hill town offering access to the northern Drakensberg.
Free Things to Do
Many Drakensberg trails and viewpoints are free to explore.
Self-guided hikes along the Drakensberg foothills
Enjoy panoramic views with well-marked trail routes.
Sunrise viewpoints of the Amphitheatre
Watch dawn light paint the peaks from popular pullouts.
Riverside picnics and wildlife watching
Relax by streams and watch for birds and small mammals.
Gastronomy
Taste warm, comforting mountain flavors and Basotho-inspired fare.
Basotho-inspired stew and mielie dishes
Hearty, traditional mountain meals at rustic lodges.
Braai and grilled trout
Classic South African barbecue paired with river-caught trout.
Nightlife
Evening options range from traditional music to relaxed after-dusk gatherings.
Drakensberg Boys Choir performances
Famed choral concerts showcasing local talent.
Basotho Cultural Village evening shows
Traditional songs and dances with storytelling.
Entertainment
Live performances and scenic experiences to enrich evenings.
Cultural shows at Basotho Cultural Village
Vibrant performances showcasing Basotho traditions.
Drakensberg scenic drives and wildlife encounters
Relaxed tours emphasizing landscapes and wildlife.
Sports
Active adventures abound for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking to Amphitheatre and surrounding trails
Iconic highland hikes with breathtaking scenery.
Rock climbing near Cathedral Peak
Challenging routes on classic Drakensberg rock faces.
Fly fishing in Tugela River and streams
Popular trout fishing spots in the highlands.
Off the Track
Take the road less traveled for dramatic scenery and culture.
Sani Pass to Lesotho via 4x4 or guided tours
Scenic mountain pass with Basotho culture and Lesotho views.
Basotho Cultural Village
Authentic cultural experiences and craft demonstrations.
Lesotho border viewpoint drives
Scenic drives offering sweeping highland vistas.