The Drakensberg mountains of South Africa (also named uKhahlamba, the Barrier of Spears, by the Zulu people) is a 200-kilometre-long mountainous wonderland and world heritage site covering 243 000 hectares of land. The largest proportion of the Drakensberg area falls in the province of KwaZulu-Natal.

The name 'Drakensberg' came down from the Dutch Voortrekkers and means "The Dragon Mountain", due to the distinct shape of a dragon formed by the mountain range at Champagne valley.

In winter, snowcapped cliffs tower over riverine bush, lush yellowwood forests, a wealth of biological diversity and cascading waterfalls, forming a massive barrier separating KwaZulu-Natal from the Kingdom of Lesotho. The only road access from Lesotho to the Drakensberg is via Sani Pass, which at the top, boasts the highest pub on Africa, 3 000 metres above sea level. The area is also home to 290 species of birds, 48 species of mammals and a variety or rare plantlife.

Another attraction to this world heritage site is the San bushman paintings which have been preserved and venerated for eons since the San people or bushmen roamed these slopes. Tens of thousands of paintings depicting their daily life can be found on the rock faces.

Activities in the area include rock climbing, mountain hikes, or more gentle walks, abseiling, white water rafting, helicopter rides, quad biking, and raptor displays. This is all complimented by an array of shops,m local craft markets, restaurants, golf courses resorts and spas.

The KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg area can be divided into Bergville and the Northern Drakensberg; Winterton and the Central Drakensberg; Himeville, Underberg and the Southern Drakensberg and East Griqualand and Umzimkhulu..

If you would like to receive a brochure on the Drakensberg of KwaZulu-Natal, please send an email requesting one to kznta@iafrica.com.

Email: cdta@futurenet.co.za
Tel: 036 488 1207 / 036 488 1273
Fax : 036 488 1846

Visit www.kzn.org.za for more information