Maloti-Drakensberg Park: A Majestic World Heritage Site
Explore dramatic landscapes, ancient rock art, and unique biodiversity in this UNESCO World Heritage Site straddling South Africa and Lesotho.
The Maloti-Drakensberg Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, straddles the border between South Africa and Lesotho, offering dramatic mountain scenery, diverse habitats, and a wealth of San rock art. It's a haven for hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking cultural enrichment.
A brief summary to Maloti-Drakensberg Park
- Monday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 7:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Obtain detailed maps and information about hiking trails from Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife before setting out.
- Visit the rock art interpretative centers at Didima and Kamberg to learn more about the San people and their art.
- Pack for all types of weather, as conditions in the Drakensberg can change rapidly.
- Consider a guided tour up Sani Pass for stunning views and a visit to a Basotho village.
Getting There
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Car
From Underberg, a town in the Southern Drakensberg, travel to the Sani Pass. The Sani Pass is a steep gravel road that leads to the border of Lesotho. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for this route. Be prepared to pay a small entrance fee at the gate. The drive is approximately 33 kilometers.
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Public Transport
From Bushveld, take a bus to Newcastle. From Newcastle, catch a shuttle service or minibus taxi to the Maloti-Drakensberg Park area. Confirm with the driver that they are heading to your desired destination within the park. The total travel time may take around 2-3 hours. Expect to pay approximately R100 for the bus to Newcastle and an additional R50 for the shuttle service.
Discover more about Maloti-Drakensberg Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lotheni KZN Wildlife Resort
8.5 km
Experience the beauty of the Drakensberg at Lotheni KZN Wildlife Resort, where nature meets comfort in self-catering accommodations.
Giants Castle Resort
12.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Giants Castle Resort in Maloti-Drakensberg Park, a perfect blend of self-catering comfort and nature's wonders.
Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse
13.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse, the perfect self-catering getaway in South Africa's majestic Kamberg Valley.
Langalibalele Pass
14.6 km
Explore Langalibalele Pass: A breathtaking mountain pass in the Drakensberg, perfect for adventure, wildlife spotting, and stunning scenic views.
Qambathi Mountain Lodge
16.7 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Qambathi Mountain Lodge in the stunning Drakensberg, where luxury meets nature in perfect harmony.
Injisuthi
30.5 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures at Injisuthi, your perfect getaway in the Central Drakensberg.
WHITE MOUNTAIN RESORT
30.7 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at White Mountain Resort in the breathtaking Drakensberg mountains, perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Mkomazana Mountain Cottages
31.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of the Drakensberg at Mkomazana Mountain Cottages, your ideal self-catering getaway for nature and adventure.
Mokhtlong River
32.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Mokhtlong River in Lesotho, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Premier Resort Sani Pass
32.7 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Premier Resort Sani Pass, a stunning hotel nestled in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal's breathtaking landscapes.
Sani Lodge Backpackers
33.0 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty and adventure of the Southern Drakensberg at Sani Lodge Backpackers, your perfect getaway in KwaZulu-Natal.
Sani Mountain Lodge
34.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sani Mountain Lodge, a perfect blend of self-catering comfort and adventure in the heart of Lesotho's Drakensberg mountains.
Sani Stone Lodge
34.2 km
Experience the beauty and adventure of Sani Pass from Sani Stone Lodge, where comfort meets the stunning landscapes of South Africa.
Sani Pass Border Control (Lesotho)
34.4 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture at Sani Pass Border Control, your gateway to the majestic mountains of Lesotho.
Masoba-Soba Lodge
34.5 km
Discover the warmth of Lesotho at Masoba-Soba Lodge, where comfort meets stunning natural beauty in Mokhotlong.
Unmissable attractions to see
Giants Hut
6.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Giants Hut in the Drakensberg mountains, where adventure and tranquility await every nature lover.
Roman Baths rock pools
6.9 km
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Roman Baths rock pools in Highmoor, South Africa, where adventure meets tranquility.
Giant's Castle
7.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Giant's Castle, a mountain peak in the Drakensberg region, rich in wildlife and history, perfect for nature lovers.
Lotheni
8.9 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Lotheni Park, a serene getaway in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Highmoor Nature Reserve
9.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Highmoor Nature Reserve, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers in South Africa.
Kamberg Nature Reserve
11.7 km
Explore Kamberg Nature Reserve: A breathtaking blend of natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and ancient rock art in South Africa's Drakensberg mountains.
Aasvoelkrans Cave
11.8 km
Visit Aasvoelkrans Cave in Highmoor, South Africa, for stunning landscapes, a tranquil waterfall, and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Lotheni Nature Reserve
11.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Lotheni Nature Reserve, a serene escape into South Africa's rich natural heritage.
Dragon Mountains
14.1 km
Explore the captivating landscapes and rich biodiversity of the Dragon Mountains in South Africa, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Vergelegen Nature Reserve
19.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Vergelegen Nature Reserve, a hidden gem in South Africa's wilderness, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
God's Window
29.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of God's Window in Lesotho, a stunning viewpoint in the Drakensberg Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Drakensberg
29.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Drakensberg mountains in Lesotho, a UNESCO World Heritage site perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Drakensberg hiking
29.1 km
Discover the stunning beauty of the Drakensberg hiking trails in Lesotho, where adventure meets breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Giant's Cup Trailhead
31.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Giant's Cup Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in South Africa's Drakensberg Mountains, perfect for nature lovers.
Yellowwood corner
31.2 km
Experience the breathtaking natural beauty and tranquility of Yellowwood Corner, a serene tourist attraction in South Africa's lush landscapes.
Essential places to dine
Izimbali Restaurant
12.2 km
Experience authentic South African cuisine at Izimbali Restaurant - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Restaurant
39.0 km
Experience exquisite dining at Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Restaurant amidst breathtaking landscapes in Maloti Drakensberg Park.
Moorcroft Manor
39.4 km
Discover exquisite dining at Moorcroft Manor in Himeville, where gourmet cuisine meets stunning Drakensberg mountain views.
Dragon's Restaurant & Pub
41.2 km
Experience authentic South African flavors at Dragon's Restaurant & Pub, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Cathkin Park's Drakensberg mountains.
Lakeview Restaurant - Drakensberg Sun
42.8 km
Discover exceptional dining at Lakeview Restaurant in Drakensberg Sun Resort - where local flavors meet breathtaking mountain views.
Mac's Café
43.0 km
Experience delightful dining at Mac's Café in Cathkin Park, where local flavors meet breathtaking views.
Champagne Bistro Cafè
43.7 km
Discover delightful bistro dining at Champagne Bistro Cafè along R600 - where every meal is infused with local flavor and charm.
Bierfassl Restaurant and Pub
43.7 km
Discover Bierfassl Restaurant and Pub in KZN Midlands: where local flavors meet lively atmosphere amidst stunning scenery.
29° SOUTH
43.8 km
Discover authentic local cuisine at 29° SOUTH in South Africa's beautiful Midlands – where flavor meets nature's charm.
Midlands Saddle Restaurant
43.8 km
Experience exceptional dining at Midlands Saddle Restaurant amidst stunning landscapes, where local flavors come alive.
Duck & Dolittle Restaurant
44.1 km
Discover the heartwarming flavors of local cuisine at Duck & Dolittle Restaurant in Underberg – where every meal tells a story.
Hackers Grill
45.9 km
Experience delightful flavors at Hackers Grill in Underberg - where culinary excellence meets warm hospitality amidst stunning landscapes.
Skye Bistro Restaurant
47.0 km
Experience exquisite dining at Skye Bistro Restaurant amidst breathtaking views and local flavors.
Fork 'n Cleaver
47.1 km
Experience unforgettable flavors and local culinary treasures at Fork 'n Cleaver in beautiful Nottingham Road.
Fam Pizza Restaurant
47.7 km
Discover delicious pizzas at Fam Pizza Restaurant in Mokhotlong - where quality meets flavor in a cozy setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Afzaal shop
21.2 km
Discover local flavors at Afzaal Shop, a grocery store in Ezidongeni offering fresh produce and unique South African ingredients.
Inkungu Lodge Boutique Hotel
40.0 km
Experience luxury and nature at Inkungu Lodge Boutique Hotel, your perfect retreat in the breathtaking Drakensberg mountains.
The Oaks Supermarket
41.1 km
Discover local flavors and essentials at The Oaks Supermarket in Cathkin Park, a gem in the heart of the Drakensberg.
Mountain Splendour Cycles
41.2 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of Cathkin Park with Mountain Splendour Cycles, your gateway to unforgettable cycling adventures in the Drakensberg.
Kwazulu candles and weavers
41.3 km
Explore the enchanting world of handcrafted candles and woven treasures at Kwazulu Candles and Weavers in the breathtaking Champagne Valley, Drakensberg.
Ramblin Rose Mobile Boutique
41.3 km
Explore Ramblin Rose Mobile Boutique in Himeville for handcrafted leather goods that blend quality, style, and a touch of local charm.
Devorah
41.6 km
Discover unique South African gifts at Devorah, Himeville's charming gift shop that showcases local artistry and craftsmanship.
Stonehouse Antiques
42.1 km
Explore the enchanting world of vintage collectibles at Stonehouse Antiques, a charming destination for history enthusiasts in Himeville.
Sandra se Winkel
42.1 km
Explore Sandra se Winkel: A Unique Antique Store and Museum in Cathkin Valley, Showcasing Rich South African Heritage and Timeless Treasures.
The Gift House
42.5 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local artistry at The Gift House in Underberg, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
The Nguni Guy Drakensberg
43.0 km
Explore the vibrant culture of South Africa at The Nguni Guy, your go-to gift shop in Drakensberg for unique, locally crafted treasures.
Ugly Duckling
43.0 km
Explore Ugly Duckling in Cathkin Park for unique home goods that blend style and creativity, all set against stunning natural scenery.
Cedarwood Supermarket
43.0 km
Discover local flavors and fresh produce at Cedarwood Supermarket, the heart of Winterton's culinary scene, perfect for tourists and food lovers alike.
Cedarwood Village Shopping Centre
43.1 km
Discover the charm of Cedarwood Village Shopping Centre in Cathkin Park, where shopping meets nature in the breathtaking Drakensberg.
HideSki OrganiX
43.3 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of leather goods at HideSki OrganiX in the breathtaking Drakensberg region of South Africa.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Overhang Bar
12.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Overhang Bar, where locals and tourists come together for great drinks and unforgettable moments.
The Nottingham Road Hotel
43.3 km
Experience the rustic charm and warm hospitality of The Nottingham Road Hotel, set against the stunning backdrop of KwaZulu-Natal's natural beauty.
Joyce Offsales
45.0 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Joyce Offsales in Mokhotlong, where drinks and local culture meet in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Nest Drakensberg Hotel
45.1 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at The Nest Drakensberg Hotel, your gateway to exploring South Africa's breathtaking Drakensberg Mountains.
Underberg Inn Pub & Grill
46.7 km
Discover the heart of Underberg at Underberg Inn Pub & Grill – a lively spot for delicious food, refreshing drinks, and local entertainment.
Tsabi's Guest House
47.8 km
Experience the charm and comfort of Tsabi's Guest House in Mokhotlong, where local culture meets modern hospitality in stunning mountain surroundings.
LL
48.3 km
Discover serenity at Ha Mamolibeli Lounge, a tranquil haven near Sani Pass, perfect for relaxation and breathtaking views.
Lythwood Lodge
49.3 km
Experience the tranquility of Lythwood Lodge, a perfect blend of nature and comfort in Lidgetton West, ideal for relaxation and unforgettable moments.
Nip Inn
54.7 km
Experience the charm of Bulwer at Nip Inn, a cozy restaurant and pub offering delicious local cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere.
Cathedral Peak Hotel
58.1 km
Experience luxury and adventure at Cathedral Peak Hotel, your gateway to the breathtaking beauty of the Drakensberg mountains and heritage.
Sphiwo Bar
60.3 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and local culture at Sphiwo Bar in Nkwazela, a perfect spot for drinks and socializing.
Cathedral Peak Wines, Bergville
61.7 km
Discover the exquisite wines and breathtaking views at Cathedral Peak Wines, a must-visit bar in the heart of Bergville's stunning landscapes.
Popcorn
75.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Popcorn, a unique pub in Bergville with a dog park, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Crossways Pub & Restaurant
75.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of South Africa at Crossways Pub & Restaurant, Hilton's favorite spot for delicious meals and live music.
Makhalong Tavern
78.4 km
Discover the heart of Lesotho's culture at Makhalong Tavern, where locals and tourists unite over traditional drinks and lively conversations.