Johannesburg

CROSSING THE DRAGON: TREKKING ALONG THE DRAKENSBERG - SOUTH AFRICA AND LESOTHO

Hiking

What you'll do

Embark on an unforgettable 11-day adventure across South Africa and Lesotho, trekking through the mighty Drakensberg range. This journey takes you through two countries, climbing the highest peaks in Southern Africa. Over 10 days of trekking, you’ll experience rugged terrain, breathtaking ridgelines, and remote valleys. Walk the old mountain paths, cross high passes, and camp under star-filled skies in secluded spots far from civilization. Along the way, visit iconic landmarks like Tugela Falls, Mnweni Pinnacles, and The Organ Pipes, and encounter the fascinating Basotho herders in Lesotho. This is your chance to explore one of the most awe-inspiring regions of Africa, with a professional guide and porters to ensure a seamless and safe experience.

Itinerary

Day 1 — Johannesburg to Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge

As soon as you arrive at Johannesburg airport (we recommend landing by 2 PM), your adventure begins with a scenic drive (about 5 hours) into the heart of the Drakensberg. The road winds through the Free State plains before the dramatic cliffs of the Amphitheatre appear on the horizon. Settle in at Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge, perched high above the valleys, where you’ll share your first dinner and gear check while soaking in mountain views.

Day 2 — Sentinel Park to Tugela Falls and Ifidi Camp

After a two-hour drive, the real trek begins! From the Sentinel car park, climb steeply up, ascending the escarpment via the iconic chain ladders to 3,000 m. Visit the Tugela Falls, 983 meters high; they’re the world’s tallest waterfall (with the Salto Ángel in Venezuela). Pass through Mont-aux-Sources (3,282 m) to end your first day song the Drakensberg at the remote Ifidi Camp, surrounded by basalt towers and endless ridgelines. Welcome to wild country: no roads, no noise, just mountains. Distance: 14 km (8.7 mi) | Elevation gain: +800m (2,625ft) -300m (985ft) | Time: 4 hours hiking

Day 3 — Fang Valley to the Source of the Orange River

Follow old herders’ paths across high ridges overlooking the Mnweni Pinnacles. Today’s scenery is vast and untamed, full of green valleys, sandstone walls, and distant Lesotho plateaus. You’ll reach the headwaters of the Orange River—a surreal feeling, standing at the source of a river that flows to the Atlantic. Distance: 21 km (13 mi) | Elevation gain: +1,200m (3,937ft) -1,300m (4,265ft) | Time: 10 hours

Day 4 — Source of the Orange River to Organ Pipes

Climb toward Cockade Pass beneath Cleft Peak (3,281 m), one of the most beautiful summits of the range. The route moves between grassy ridgelines and rocky escarpments until the towering “Organ Pipes” rock formations come into view. Camp nearby under a million stars. Distance: 16 km (9.9 mi) | Elevation gain: +1,300m (4,265ft) -1,200m (3,937ft) | Time: 8–10 hours

Day 5 — Organ Pipes to Dima Pass

A varied day through one of the most scenic sections of the Northern Drakensberg. You’ll pass waterfalls, cross alpine meadows, and navigate Yodler’s Cascade. Enter the high Maloti valleys of Lesotho, meeting Basotho herders and their livestock before camping in the lush Dima Pass valley. Expect changing weather, ever-expanding views, and that satisfying sense of being deep in the wild. Distance: 14 km (8.7 mi) | Elevation gain: +1,000m (3,280ft) -600m (1,970ft) | Time: 6 hours

Day 6 — Dima Pass to Red Wall

A steep climb takes you back to the escarpment with breathtaking views of Yodler’s Peak (3,301 m) and iNkosazana Peak (3,318 m). As you hike, you’ll traverse misty ridges marked by cairns, eventually reaching Red Wall—an impressive rock formation where you’ll camp beneath the towering cliffs. Distance: 20 km (12.4 mi) | Elevation gain: +900m (2,950ft) -800m (2,625ft) | Time: 8 hours

Day 7 — Red Wall to Mafadi to Langalibalele

Today, you’ll summit Mafadi (3,450 m)—South Africa’s highest peak. The ascent offers panoramic views across the entire Drakensberg range. After the summit celebration, descend gently to Langalibalele Pass, where you’ll camp beside tranquil mountain streams. Distance: 16 km (9.9 mi) | Elevation gain: +1,000m (3,280ft) -1,000m (3,280ft) | Time: 8 hours

Day 8 — Langalibalele to The Tent

Continue southward along the escarpment, following ancient shepherd trails toward Giant’s Castle (3,315 m). The terrain undulates across ridges and valleys, with occasional sightings of eland and bearded vultures. You’ll camp near “The Tent,” a distinctive rock peak. Distance: 16 km (9.9 mi) | Elevation gain: +700m (2,300ft) -800m (2,625ft) | Time: 8 hours

Day 9 — The Tent to Thabana Ntlenyana to Sebonghong River

A long, spectacular traverse across high Lesotho ridges leads to the summit of Thabana Ntlenyana (3,482 m). The route passes through remote Basotho grazing lands before the steady climb to the top, offering panoramic 360° views of the Drakensberg and Lesotho highlands. After celebrating the summit, descend into the Sebonghong River valley, ending the trek’s most demanding yet unforgettable day. Distance: 26 km (16.2 mi) | Elevation gain: +1,050m (3,445ft) -750m (2,460ft) | Time: 8–10 hours

Day 10 — Sebonghong River to Sani Pass

The final day of the journey descends steadily toward Sani Pass, following well-defined trails through sweeping highlands. Though long, the hike is fueled by anticipation of rest and reward. The adventure concludes in comfort at the Highest Pub in Africa (2,876 m)—where hot showers, hearty meals, and well-earned celebration mark the end of an unforgettable adventure across the Dragon Mountains. Distance: 14 km (8.7 mi) | Elevation gain: +430m (1,410ft) -740m (2,425ft) | Time: 4–6 hours

Day 11 — Sani Pass to Durban International Airport

After breakfast, hop into 4x4s for the descent of Sani Pass. As you leave the mountains behind, the lush KwaZulu-Natal landscape rolls out before you. The journey ends with a transfer (5-6 hours drive) to Durban International Airport for evening flights or onward travel.

Important stuff

From the highest peaks to the hidden trails, we've got your back

100% Guaranteed Departures

Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.

Flexible Changes

Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.

Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance

Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

100% Guaranteed Departures: Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.
Flexible Changes: Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.
Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance: Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

see more on How it works

What's included

Accident insurance

Medical and luggage insurance

Travel cancellation insurance

All required permits and fees for national park access

Transport from airport

Transport to airport

Porters

All meals

Flight

Visa (if applicable)

Snacks and drinks

Everything not mentioned in the “What’s included”

Tips

Expenditure of personal nature

Accomodations

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Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge (Day 1)

Nestled at the foot of the Drakensberg escarpment, this comfortable lodge offers cozy rooms with panoramic views of the Amphitheatre. A perfect base to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.

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Mountain Camps (Days 2–9)

Throughout the trek, you'll camp in expedition-style tents, with porters setting up and cooking. Expect rustic comfort surrounded by wilderness, far from civilization, beneath star-filled skies.

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Sani Pass Mountain Lodge (day 10)

Located at the top of Sani Pass, this lodge offers cozy rooms and a chance to unwind after the trek. Enjoy hot showers, a hearty meal, and a drink at Africa’s Highest Pub.

Guides

Kai Fitchen

Kai Fitchen is a seasoned mountaineer, guide, and conservationist with extensive experience leading treks across the Drakensberg and Lesotho. His deep knowledge of the region, paired with his passion for conservation and the outdoors, ensures you’ll experience the true spirit of the mountains, safely and responsibly.