Johannesburg

HIKING THE DRAKENSBERG GRAND TRAVERSE TREK - SOUTH AFRICA

Hiking

What you'll do

This 12-day adventure traverses the rugged Drakensberg range from Sentinel to Bushman’s Nek. Hike past waterfalls, summits, and remote valleys, camp in breathtaking wilderness, and experience Lesotho’s highlands. A true expedition through Southern Africa’s most iconic mountain landscapes.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Johannesburg to Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge

Today is a preparation day. We’ll use this time to finalize packing, set expectations for the trek, and go over essential information about weather, safety, and the trail ahead.

Day 2 - Sentinel Car Park to Near Fangs

Begin your trek from Sentinel Car Park with a challenging ascent up the Chain Ladders to reach the escarpment. A brief detour to Tugela Falls— the world’s second-highest waterfall— is highly recommended. From there, continue the climb to Mont-aux-Sources (3,282 m), gaining about 750 m in elevation over the first 8 km. Descend to the Kubedu River and cross a series of ridges towards the valley below Fangs Pass. Given the strenuous start, it's acceptable to camp around the 18 km mark and make up the distance on the following, easier day. Time: ~7–8 hrs | Length: 22.8 km / 14.2 mi | Elevation gain: 1,291 m up / 4,236 ft

Day 3 - Fangs to Behind the Saddle

Cross a high ridge from Fangs and descend into the Hanging Valleys. Climb again to a ridge overlooking the Mnweni Cutback and the Senqu plains. A 5.5 km detour rewards you with dramatic views of the Mnweni Pinnacles, Mnweni Needles, and Mponjwane Tower. Take a break at the confluence of the Senqu and Koakoatsan Rivers before heading up the Koakoatsan Valley. Aim to progress as far as possible to ease the next day’s climb. Time: ~6–7 hrs | Length: 22.2 km / 13.8 mi | Elevation gain: 767 m up / 2,516 ft

Day 4 - Behind the Saddle to Near Yodler’s Cascades

Start by crossing into the Cathedral Peak area via the Bell Traverse. Optional detours offer stunning views from Elephant’s Head. Ascend to Cleft Peak (3,277 m) for panoramic views of the Column and Pyramid before descending past Thuthumi Pass to Windsor Castle. Use this easier day to cover more ground in preparation for the next challenging stretch. Time: ~8–9 hrs | Length: 27.1 km / 16.8 mi | Elevation gain: 1,305 m up / 4,281 ft

Day 5 - Near Yodler’s Cascades to Past Ship’s Prow Pass

Climb steadily through the valley beyond Yodler’s Cascades, crossing higher terrain toward Champagne Castle (3,377 m). Continue past Ship’s Prow Pass and descend to scenic riverside campsites. This day involves a major ascent but offers spectacular vistas and a peaceful campsite. Time: ~7–8 hrs | Length: 22.2 km / 13.8 mi | Elevation gain: 1,460 m up / 4,790 ft

Day 6 - Ship’s Prow Pass to Jarateng River Valley

Enjoy a relatively relaxed day with less climbing. Summit Mafadi (3,450 m), the highest peak in South Africa, before descending into the Jarateng River Valley, now entering Lesotho. Explore the traditional stone kraals and interact with Basotho shepherds before setting up camp. Time: ~6–7 hrs | Length: 22.2 km / 13.8 mi | Elevation gain: 681 m up / 2,234 ft

Day 7 - Jarateng River Valley to Lotheni Pass

Begin with a gentle climb to Giant’s Castle Pass. An optional side trip to summit Giant’s Castle (3,315 m) is highly rewarding. Descend via Lotheni Pass to campsites with beautiful views and ample space. Time: ~7–8 hrs | Length: 23.8 km / 14.8 mi | Elevation gain: 1,018 m up / 3,340 ft

Day 8 - Lotheni Pass to Mkhomazi Pass

Climb toward Ka-Masihlenga Pass and summit Redi Peak (3,309 m). Descend past Hlatimba Caves and around Lamunram Peak to reach campsites near Mkhomazi Pass. If energy allows, consider summiting Thaba Ntlenyana— an 8 km detour with 650 m ascent. Time: ~6–7 hrs | Length: 21.3 km / 13.2 mi | Elevation gain: 794 m up / 2,605 ft

Day 9 - Mkhomazi Pass to Pitsaneng River

Ascend the Mohlesi River Valley to summit Thabana Ntlenyana (3,482 m), the highest point in Southern Africa. Descend to the Sehonghong River and climb to a ridge above the Sani Pass road. Make your final descent to the Pitsaneng River, with optional extension to Sandleni Pinnacle for scenic camping. Time: ~8–9 hrs | Length: 26.4 km / 16.4 mi | Elevation gain: 1,211 m up / 3,973 ft

Day 10 - Pitsaneng River to Leqooa River Camp / Mzimude Caves

Traverse the area around Sandleni Pinnacle to reach No Man’s Peak. Descend past Mzimkhulu Pass and cross a final ridge to Mashai Pass. End the day near the Leqooa River, with Mzimude Caves nearby for optional exploration. Time: ~6–7 hrs | Length: 21.3 km / 13.2 mi | Elevation gain: 1,025 m up / 3,363 ft

Day 11 - Leqooa River to Bushman’s Nek Border Post

Celebrate your final day with a short climb to Isicatula Pass, followed by a gentle descent via Thamathu Pass. Cross the last river and arrive at Bushman’s Nek Border Post, where your journey concludes with well-earned rest and a celebratory meal. Time: ~5–6 hrs | Length: 20.7 km / 12.9 mi | Elevation gain: 468 m up / 1,535 ft

Day 12 - Travel Day

Return journey begins. Time to rest and reflect on the unforgettable Drakensberg Traverse you’ve completed.

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

Qualified mountain guide and wilderness first responder plus assistants

Return transfers from Johannesburg

3 meals a day on the mountain

2 nights hotel accommodation ( breakfast and dinner included )

10 days/9 nights trekking in the mountains

Porters to carry food and tents

All hiking permits, park fees and local taxes

Certificate of Completion for the Drakensberg Grand Traverse

Dad Jokes to keep you highly motivated throughout the Drakensberg Grand Traverse

Flight

Visa (if applicable)

Everything not mentioned in the “What’s included”

Tips

Expenditure of personal nature

Accomodations

1 / 1

Family owned hotel in Johannesburg

To help you start and finish the journey strong, we also include two nights in comfortable hotel accommodation— One night before the hike, where you can relax, get a good night’s rest, and mentally prepare One night after the hike, where you can recover, celebrate your achievement, and enjoy a warm shower and soft bed

1 / 2

Wild camping

You’ll be camping in the wilderness for most of the trek, immersing yourself fully in the remote beauty of the Drakensberg Mountains. Each night on the trail, you’ll sleep in a high-quality tent provided by us, surrounded by stunning views and the sounds of nature.

Meeting point

Frequently asked questions

Departures

Cannot find a departure date that suits you?

Make a private request