Maloti-Drakensberg Park: A Natural Wonder Awaits
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Maloti-Drakensberg Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking vistas of Maloti-Drakensberg Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural heritage. Ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike, this park offers a myriad of activities from hiking to birdwatching, all set against the majestic backdrop of the Drakensberg Mountains.
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
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Carry plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike long trails.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Wear suitable hiking shoes and dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery and diverse wildlife.
Getting There
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Car
Start your journey by heading out of Bushveld on the N11 highway. Follow the N11 until you reach the junction with the R616. Turn onto the R616 and continue driving until you see signs for the Maloti-Drakensberg Park. The park entrance is approximately 45 minutes from Bushveld. Be prepared to pay a small entrance fee at the gate, typically around R30 per person.
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Public Transportation
Take a bus from Bushveld to the nearest major town, which is likely to be Newcastle. From Newcastle, you can catch a shuttle service or a minibus taxi that goes to the Maloti-Drakensberg Park area. Ensure to confirm with the driver that they are heading to your desired destination. The total travel time may take around 2-3 hours depending on connections and waiting times. Expect to pay approximately R100 for the bus to Newcastle and an additional R50 for the shuttle service.
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Taxi/Ride-sharing
For a more direct route, consider using a taxi or ride-sharing service. From Bushveld, you can request a ride to Maloti-Drakensberg Park. This option is more costly, likely ranging from R500 to R700 depending on the service and distance. This method is convenient as it offers door-to-door service, but be sure to confirm the fare in advance.
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Combination (Car & Public Transport)
If you don’t have access to a car but still want to enjoy the flexibility of driving, consider taking a bus to a nearby town like Bergville. From Bergville, you can rent a car or find a local taxi service to take you to Maloti-Drakensberg Park. This method gives you the option to explore the area at your leisure, with car rentals typically costing around R300 per day.
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.
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 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.
Sani Valley Nature Lodges
35.7 km
Discover Sani Valley Nature Lodges - your serene sanctuary in the Drakensberg, offering stunning views, comfort, and adventure in nature's embrace.
Antbear Lodge
36.6 km
Discover the charm of Antbear Lodge in KwaZulu-Natal, a pet-friendly retreat offering cozy accommodations and stunning natural landscapes for a perfect getaway.
Unmissable attractions to see
Giants Hut
6.6 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and diverse trails at Giants Hut in the Drakensberg Mountains, a hiker's haven for adventure and tranquility.
Roman Baths rock pools
6.9 km
Experience the serenity and beauty of the Roman Baths rock pools in Highmoor, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Giant's Castle
7.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Giant's Castle, a majestic mountain peak in South Africa, offering stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage.
Giant's Castle (mountain)
8.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Giant's Castle, a must-visit mountain landmark in South Africa.
Lotheni
8.9 km
Explore Lotheni Park, a breathtaking natural wonder in South Africa, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and reconnecting with nature.
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 hidden gem of nature and ancient rock art in South Africa's stunning Drakensberg region.
Aasvoelkrans Cave
11.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and geological wonders of Aasvoelkrans Cave in Highmoor, a must-visit tourist attraction for nature lovers.
Lotheni Nature Reserve
11.9 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Lotheni Nature Reserve, a serene nature preserve in South Africa's stunning landscapes.
Giants Castle Camp
12.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Giants Castle Camp, a wildlife haven in South Africa's Drakensberg, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Giants Castle Resort
12.2 km
Experience the beauty of nature and independence at Giants Castle Resort, the perfect self-catering escape in the Maloti-Drakensberg Park.
Dragon Mountains
14.1 km
Explore the stunning Dragon Mountains, a natural park in South Africa known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.
Giants Castle Game Reserve:Tel
17.6 km
Explore the captivating Giants Castle Game Reserve, a haven of natural beauty, rich wildlife, and stunning landscapes in South Africa's Drakensberg.
Vergelegen Nature Reserve
19.2 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Vergelegen Nature Reserve, a nature preserve in South Africa offering stunning trails and rich biodiversity.
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.
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.
