Mighty Drakensberg Mountains

ABOUT THIS TRIP

If you want to go to the mountains, South Africa may not necessarily be the first destination on your wish list. Nevertheless, the country offers an impressive mountain formation for hikers and nature lovers in the form of the Drakensberg. Explore the different facets of the "Dragon Mountains" off the beaten tourist track from north to south. You won't have to miss out on the Big Five in the malaria-free Nambiti Game Reserve either. Finally, relax a little on the beautiful beaches of the warm Dolphin Coast.

We are happy to change this tour itinerary or the rental car category according to your individual wishes. Please contact us for your personal offer. This tour can be started all year round. In the South African winter from April to October, it tends to be cooler and drier in the Drakensberg, and it can snow in July and August. In contrast, the South African summer from November to March tends to be warmer and wetter. You should allow just under two weeks for this trip. A four-wheel drive vehicle is not necessary for this route, but a car with a higher wheelbase is definitely helpful.

OVERNIGHT STATIONS

• 2x Clarens
• 2x Lesotho
• 2x Bergville
• 2x Ladysmith
• 2x Winterton
• 2x Himeville
• 1x Umhlanga

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 13x overnight stay in the Superior category ****
• 13x breakfast, 2x lunch, 6x dinner
• Rental car class R (Toyota Corolla Cross SUV Automatic or similar)
• Drakensberg Sundowner Drive
• four game drives in the private Big Five Nambiti Game Reserve
• Access to the airport lounge on the day of departure
• Comprehensive travel documents according to the booked tour itinerary
• Local offices with 24-hour hotline (German/English)
• Travel insurance certificate

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• Meals not mentioned
• not mentioned or optional activities
• Flight performance
• Entrance fees and conservation fees not mentioned
• other personal expenses, tips
• personal travel insurance
• Additional costs for rental car (conditions see below)

DAY 1 TO DAY 3 (APPROX. 310 KM):

CLARENS

On arrival at Johannesburg Airport or at the agreed station, you will receive your rental car. Your journey continues to the Golden Gate National Park, which has recently been merged with the Qwa-Qwa National Park. This national park in the highlands of South Africa is one of the country's highlights with its golden mountains, great hiking opportunities and unique landscape. It is not uncommon to encounter smaller game such as zebra and antelope on a hike. Hiking routes range from 45 minutes to several hours in length. The light is most beautiful at sunset. Close to the park is the small artists' village of Clarens with its many studios, boutiques, cafés and restaurants. Clarens repeatedly appears in the best lists of the most beautiful small towns in South Africa.

You will spend the night in the beautiful Mont D'Or Hotel on the edge of Clarens with a fantastic view of the surrounding mountains. All the attractions of the small town are within walking distance. The entrance to the Golden Gate National Park is around a 15-minute drive away. The 25 rooms all have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a TV, a minibar, tea/coffee making facilities and a safe. The Family Suites also have two single beds. The Executive Suites are more spacious, furnished to a higher standard and offer a great view of the mountains. The hotel offers an à la carte restaurant, a bar, a guest lounge, a spa area for a fee and free WiFi.

MONT D'OR (EXECUTIVE SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 3 TO DAY 5 (APPROX. 90 KM):

LESOTHO

The independent kingdom of Lesotho is one of the highest countries in the world and is also known as the "roof of Africa". The individual parts of the country lie at an altitude of between 1400 and 2000 meters, with some mountain peaks even exceeding 3000 meters. The high plateaus are criss-crossed by river valleys and inselbergs. Snowfall is to be expected in July and August, which is why Lesotho has the only real ski resort in southern Africa with slopes, lifts and huts. In the remaining months, the country is a paradise for active vacationers and outdoor enthusiasts.

In the north of Lesotho in Tsehlanyane National Park, about an hour's drive from the South African town of Clarens, lies the luxurious Maliba Lodge with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Hiking, horse riding and swimming are just some of the many activities available here. Tours to dinosaur footprints or to neighboring villages are optional. More than ten hiking trails start right on the doorstep, which you can do on your own or with a guide for an extra charge. The nine detached and spacious Mountain Chalets have a bathroom/WC, a tea/coffee maker, a TV with DVD player, a minibar, a safe, a fireplace and a private veranda with a view. The lodge offers a bar, a restaurant, a spa area (for a fee), a fireplace lounge and various viewing decks.

MALIBA LODGE (MOUNTAIN CHALET)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 4: LESOTHO

GUIDED HIKE

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 35 € PER PERSON

Lesotho is home to countless world-class hiking trails and Maliba Lodge is fortunate to be surrounded by some quality trails. An experienced local guide will lead you through the Maloti mountain ranges and offer you some spectacular views that will leave you in awe.

This approximately four-hour hike is considered moderate and requires an appropriate level of physical fitness. The tour language is English and the tour can be done with other people. Please remember to wear sturdy shoes, appropriate clothing for the weather, sun protection and sufficient drinking water.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 4: LESOTHO

MEDIUM RIDE

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 70 € PER PERSON

The Basotho are known as an equestrian people. For generations, the sure-footed Basotho pony has been bred as the ideal means of transportation in the rugged mountains. Even today, the pony is still the most effective means of transportation to reach the more inaccessible mountain villages. Pony riding on the sturdy Basotho ponies is very popular and a fantastic way to explore Lesotho's beautiful, rugged terrain. The bridle paths that criss-cross Lesotho are barely wide enough for vehicles, but the ponies dodge obstacles and loose stones with ease. Come along for the incredible views that the lodge offers. Let yourself be enchanted by the natural beauty of Ts'ehlanyane National Park and take time to take some beautiful photos of the landscape.

This ride takes about three to four hours. The level of difficulty is easy to moderate. A sundowner drink and light snacks are included. The tour language is English and the tour can be conducted with additional people.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 5 TO DAY 7 (APPROX. 220 KM):

BERGVILLE

You drive to the northern Drakensberg near the small village of Bergville. This is the ideal starting point to explore the beautiful Royal Natal National Park with the famous mountain formation of the Amphitheater and the unique Tugela Falls. There are numerous hiking trails of varying lengths and levels of difficulty. The surrounding area also has a lot to offer with the Giants Castle Game Reserve, the Spioenkop Dam Nature Reserve and the Battlefields Route.

Stay in a chalet in the upscale Montusi Mountain Lodge with a view of the famous amphitheater. The well-kept and spacious outdoor area invites you to relax and unwind. Adventurous guests can reach all the highlights of the northern Drakensberg from here on day trips. The 14 detached chalets offer a bathroom/WC, a lounge area with a separate bedroom, a fan, underfloor heating, a fireplace, a TV, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker and a veranda with mountain views. The Family Suites have two separate bedrooms, each with its own bathroom/WC. The Mountain View Chalets also have a large skylight with mountain views from the bedroom. The lodge has a restaurant, a bar, an outdoor veranda with a view, a pool and a large garden. Several hiking trails to a small waterfall, to a cave with historical rock paintings or to the summit of Mountusi Peak start right outside the door. Horse riding can be organized at the hotel's own riding stable for a fee.

MONTUSI MOUNTAIN LODGE (GARDEN SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 5: BERGVILLE

SCENIC SUNDOWNER 4X4 TRIP

You set off on a sundowner drive in an off-road vehicle to the private Montusi Estate with a fantastic view of the amphitheater in the light of the setting sun. Dusk is probably the most magical time in the mountains. With a bit of luck, you can also marvel at the typical wildlife of the Drakensberg on the way, as zebras, eland antelopes and other wild animals are not rare guests. On the way, you make a sundowner stop at a beautiful viewpoint.

This excursion starts at 4 p.m. and lasts around two hours. A sundowner drink and light snacks are included. The tour language is English and the tour can be conducted with additional people.

DAY 6: BERGVILLE

TUGELA GORGE DAY HIKE

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 135 € PER PERSON

The Tugela Gorge Hike is definitely the most popular hike in the northern Drakensberg. From the parking lot of Thendele Camp in the Royal Natal National Park, you and your guide walk through the gorge of the Tugela River with its crystal-clear rock pools to the foot of the Tugela Falls, the second highest waterfall in the world. Along the way, you will have great views of the mountains, including the famous amphitheater.

The journey to the Royal Natal National Park is on your own. Conservation fees are included in the price, food and drinks are not included. This hike is English-speaking and privately guided. It is considered moderate and takes around five to six hours. The total distance is around 14 kilometers with an elevation gain of around 300 meters. An appropriate level of fitness and clothing suitable for the weather and the route, including footwear, are required.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 6: BERGVILLE

SUNDOWNER RIDE

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 85 € PER PERSON

You set off on a sundowner ride with a fantastic view of the amphitheater in the light of the setting sun. Dusk is probably the most magical time in the mountains.

This ride takes about two hours and starts in the late afternoon. The level of difficulty is easy to moderate. A sundowner drink and light snacks are included. The tour language is English and the tour can be done with additional people. Starting point is the Montusi Mountain Lodge (own arrival).

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 7 TO DAY 9 (APPROX. 130 KM):

LADYSMITH

Close to Ladysmith is the approximately 9000ha malaria-free Nambiti Game Reserve, still an insider tip in South Africa. The private game reserve is home to the Big Five and many other African wild animals such as zebras, giraffes, antelopes and cheetahs. The varied landscape consists of vast savannahs, dense bushland and green valleys, crossed by the Sundays River. In contrast to state-run national parks, only overnight guests have access to the private reserves. These are therefore much better suited to a short stay for unique wildlife sightings. The small lodges also offer a very personal atmosphere. Specially trained rangers ensure a first-class nature experience.

The luxurious Umzolozolo Safari Lodge is situated on a hill in the southern part of the Nambiti Private Game Reserve and offers spectacular views over the surrounding area. The lodge has nine luxurious detached chalets and suites with panoramic views that blend seamlessly into the landscape. All rooms are equipped with bath/WC, indoor and outdoor showers, air-conditioning, private balcony overlooking the valley, tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer, TV and minibar. The Luxury Chalets are furnished in traditional safari style and have a pull-out sofa for children. A Luxury Chalet has two separate bedrooms, each with its own bathroom/WC. The Luxury Suites are slightly more spacious and more modern. The Presidential Suite also has an outdoor whirlpool. The lodge has a spacious lounge, an infinity pool with a view, a boma (traditional campfire dining area), a spa (for a fee) and free WiFi.

You will take part in two guided game drives per night in an open off-road vehicle (English-speaking, participation with other people), which take place in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast. Conservation fees are paid on site.

NAMBITI UMZOLOZOLO SAFARI LODGE (LUXURY CHALET)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 9 TO DAY 11 (APPROX. 110 KM):

WINTERTON

From the small town of Winterton, you can reach the central Drakensberg. Monks Cowl is the name of a peak in the Giants Castle Game Reserve, which gave this beautiful mountain hiking area its name. The region between Champagne Castle and the Cathkin Mountains is one of the most impressive mountain landscapes in South Africa with peaks of over 3000 meters. It is home to impressive birdlife as well as mammals such as antelopes and zebras. You have the opportunity to discover cave paintings of the San People, South Africa's indigenous people.

This cozy lodge is located between the Cathedral Peak Nature Reserve and the Monks Cowl hiking area (Champagne Castle) with a great view of the central Drakensberg. Various outdoor sports facilities are right on the doorstep. The eight rooms have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, TV, tea/coffee making facilities, a safe and a balcony or veranda. The two suites are more spacious than the standard rooms and also have a minibar. The lodge offers a restaurant, a bar, a large outdoor area with a lake and outdoor pool as well as free Wi-Fi.

INKUNGU LODGE (SUITE WITH MOUNTAIN VIEW)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 11 TO DAY 13 (APPROX. 260 KM):

HIMEVILLE

Himeville is the center of the southern Drakensberg. Several nature reserves such as the Coleford Nature Reserve and the Garden Castle State Forest are less than half an hour's drive away. The town is also the ideal starting point for day trips on the Sani Pass to Lesotho, the only southern link road between the two countries. The pass is only accessible with a four-wheel drive off-road vehicle, so there are several providers of guided day tours on site.

The Sani Valley Nature Lodges are detached chalets and are situated on a lake in a private nature reserve with breathtaking views of the southern Drakensberg Mountains. In the reserve you can discover zebras and various antelope species as well as impressive birdlife. The eleven lodges offer nature lovers plenty of peace and privacy as well as a fantastic view of the lake and the mountains. All chalets have a bathroom/WC, a TV, a kitchenette, a fan, a lounge with a fireplace, a safe and a veranda with barbecue facilities. The Sunset Lodges are suitable for two people. The Lakeside Lodges also have a bunk bed for children and a private Jacuzzi on the veranda. The Early Mist Lodges offer an additional bedroom for children and a private jacuzzi on the veranda. The clubhouse offers various activities (some for a fee) such as guided hikes, boat rentals and spa treatments. Breakfast is also served here. Dinner is delivered to your chalet.

The price includes a picnic basket on arrival.

SANI VALLEY NATURE LODGES (EARLY MIST LODGE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 12: UNDERBERG

SANI PASS DAY TOUR

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 120 € PER PERSON

Your day tour to the Sani Pass starts at 9:30 a.m. in Underberg. The journey to an altitude of almost 2,900 m takes approximately two and a half hours. Along the way, you'll enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding mountains at various photo stops. At midday, you'll reach the Sani Mountain Lodge, Africa's highest pub, where a delicious lunch awaits you (lunch included, drinks are paid for locally). The tour continues to a local village, where you'll learn more about the people of Lesotho and sample home-brewed beer and homemade bread. Afterwards, the return journey over the pass begins. You'll return to your starting point in Unterberg around 4:30 p.m.

The tour lasts around seven hours. The tour is in English and takes place with other people. Meeting point is at 9:00 am at the Trout Walk Center in Underberg. Overnight guests in Himeville will be picked up at their accommodation en route. You must take your passport with you to cross the border, please note the entry requirements of Lesotho that apply to you. Please take warm clothing with you.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 13 TO DAY 14 (APPROX. 250 KM):

UMHLANGA

Continue to the lively metropolis of Durban. Visit the colorful markets or simply relax on one of the many excellent city beaches on the warm Indian Ocean, which invites you to swim all year round. A visit to the new uShaka Marine World, a large aquarium and amusement park, is also worthwhile.

The upscale Cowrie Cove Guest House is located in the quiet suburb of Umhlanga, just a few steps from the Indian Ocean. Restaurants, cafés and shopping centers are just a few minutes' drive away. The twelve rooms have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a TV, a safe and a minibar. The guest house has a garden with pool, a guest lounge and private beach access.

COWRIE COVE GUEST HOUSE (EXECUTIVE SUITE)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 14 (APPROX. 20 KM): DURBAN

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT LOUNGE

As an SA Travel customer, you are something very special and enjoy the comfort that otherwise only Business or First Class travelers can enjoy. Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle at the airport on the day of departure and keep your vacation relaxation going for as long as possible.

You will have access to the airport lounge at your international departure airport in Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban. The lounge offers free drinks, snacks, newspapers, TV, WiFi and washing and shower facilities (facilities may vary depending on the lounge). You can use the lounge at the earliest four hours before your departure. Please note that lounge capacity is limited, especially at smaller airports, and access cannot always be guaranteed or there may be waiting times at the entrance.

Please return your rental car to Durban Airport or the agreed location at least two hours before departure.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP

All prices quoted are subject to availability before booking and are based on the number of participants stated. Errors excepted. Alternative availability, seasonal overlaps or exchange rate fluctuations may lead to price changes. Please request your personal tour offer with your desired travel dates. This tour offer does not include flights.

The child rate applies to one child under the age of 12 staying in their parents' room. One child under the age of two stays free of charge. For children aged 12 and over, the adult rate generally applies. Not all accommodation allows children of all ages.

We recommend that you take out travel cancellation insurance and travel health insurance to cover the costs of assistance, including repatriation in the event of accident, illness or death. We can provide a corresponding offer on request.

A passport is required to enter the country. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa in advance. Minors under the age of 18 may need to carry additional documents. We will inform you of the exact requirements before you book. Travelers who have stayed in an area at risk of yellow fever must provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination.

This trip is malaria free.

This trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility. Please ask for suitable offers.

The organizer of this trip is South Africa Travel GmbH & Co. KG, Buddestraße 9, 33602 Bielefeld, Germany, Tel +49 521 33676880.

Left-hand traffic prevails on the roads of southern Africa.

CAR RENTAL CONDITIONS FROM EUROPCAR

The following services are included in the price: unlimited free mileage, accident/theft insurance without excess (incl. damage to tires, roof, glass, underbody, oil pan, clutch), liability insurance up to 10 million euros, towing costs in the event of an accident, an additional driver, contract fee, local taxes and fees.

The following services are not included in the price and must be paid for locally: Petrol, toll, deposit, one-way fee South Africa North 1947 ZAR.

The following services are not included in the price and must be paid for locally if required: additional equipment e.g. navigation device, additional driver, young driver surcharge, traffic fines.

You will need a valid credit card issued to the main driver, an international driver's license and a passport to rent the vehicle. Each driver must be at least 21 years old and have held a driver's license for one year. The deposit is paid by credit card and will not be charged if the vehicle is returned with a full tank of fuel.

The local car rental company reserves the right to provide models of equal or higher value. The rental car mentioned is only an example of the confirmed vehicle class. The costs to be paid locally in ZAR are determined by the local car rental company and are subject to change without notice.

This is an excerpt from the car rental conditions of the local car rental company, which you will receive when booking, or in advance if you wish. You will conclude a contract in English for the use of the rental car on site.

APPROXIMATE ADDITIONAL COSTS THAT ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

Long-haul flights to Southern Africa in Economy Class cost from EUR 900, while prices can be well over EUR 1000 in the high season. Flights in Premium Economy Class are available from 1500 EUR, in Business Class flights cost from 2500 EUR (per person for outward and return flights). All prices are average values depending on the airline and season. The actual prices at a given time depend on the number of bookings and may vary. Early booking is recommended, especially in the high season.

A light lunch costs around EUR 5 (small salad, soup) to EUR 8 (pizza, pasta, burger) per person, a dinner around EUR 9 (pizza, pasta, burger, large salad) to EUR 11 (steak, fish) to EUR 21 (three-course meal) per person. Coffee, tea, beer or soft drinks cost around EUR 1.60 per cup or glass. Prices may vary upwards or downwards depending on the region or type of restaurant.

A liter of fuel (petrol or diesel) costs around EUR 1. Allow around EUR 167 for fuel for this trip. Some roads are subject to tolls. Allow about 12 EUR for tolls for this trip.

Entrance fees to national parks cost between EUR 5 and EUR 25 per person per day, depending on the size and popularity of the park. Entrance fees to museums or other attractions cost between EUR 3 and EUR 20 per person. Children under the age of 12 usually pay half price.