Discover the Majestic Monk's Cowl: A Mountain Oasis
Explore the breathtaking heights of Monk's Cowl in South Africa's Drakensberg, where adventure and natural beauty meet.
Monk's Cowl is a breathtaking mountain peak nestled in the Drakensberg region of South Africa. This natural wonder offers stunning landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and exhilarating hiking trails perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Monk's Cowl
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Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid the crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities along the trails.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and dress in layers, as weather conditions can change rapidly.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery and diverse wildlife.
- Check local weather forecasts before your visit to ensure safe hiking conditions.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, take the N3 highway towards Durban. Exit at the R617 towards Underberg and follow the signs to the Drakensberg. Continue on the R617 until you reach the Royal Natal National Park entrance. There is a small entrance fee of approximately R50 per vehicle. Once inside, follow the signs directing you to Monk's Cowl, which is approximately 5 kilometers from the entrance. The road is well-maintained, but be cautious of wildlife crossing.
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Public Transportation
To reach Monk's Cowl via public transportation, take a bus from Durban to Bergville. Once in Bergville, you can catch a local taxi to the Royal Natal National Park entrance. The bus fare from Durban to Bergville is around R150. After entering the park, you may need to arrange for a taxi or shuttle service to Monk's Cowl, as public transportation options within the park are limited. Be sure to confirm the fare and arrange your return trip in advance.
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Hiking
For those who are already in the vicinity of Monk's Cowl and wish to hike, access the starting point from the Monk's Cowl campsite. The trailhead is well-marked. Ensure you have a map or GPS device as the terrain can be challenging. The hike to the main viewpoint takes approximately 1-2 hours, depending on your fitness level. Remember to carry plenty of water and snacks, and check the weather before embarking.
Discover more about Monk's Cowl
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monk's Cowl
0.0 km
Explore the breathtaking heights of Monk's Cowl in South Africa's Drakensberg, where adventure and natural beauty meet.
Champagne Castle
2.0 km
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Umphafa Berg Tours
7.0 km
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Champagne Castle Hotel
8.0 km
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Injisuthi
10.4 km
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Orchard Manor
10.4 km
Experience tranquility at Orchard Manor in Cathkin Park, offering stunning views, spacious self-catering accommodations, and a gateway to nature's beauty.
Inkunzi Cave and Zulu Hut
10.5 km
Experience the beauty of the Drakensberg at Inkunzi Cave and Zulu Hut, where nature and Zulu heritage come together for an unforgettable stay.
Champagne Haven
10.5 km
Experience tranquility and stunning nature at Champagne Haven in the heart of the Drakensberg Mountains, ideal for your self-catering getaway.
Berg Escape - 6 Kiepersol
10.6 km
Experience the beauty of the Drakensberg at Berg Escape, a serene self-catering accommodation in Champagne Valley, perfect for nature lovers and families.
Wits End Mountain Resort
11.0 km
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Drakensberg Sun Resort
11.2 km
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Dragonview lodge
12.2 km
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Cathkin House
13.2 km
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Drakenzicht Mountain Cottage
13.9 km
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Gooderson Monks Cowl Golf Resort
14.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Sterkhorn
1.5 km
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iKhayalamafu Mountain Reserve
5.8 km
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Dragon Rock Reptile and Nature Park
9.4 km
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Falcon Ridge - Bird Of Prey Centre
9.6 km
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Dragon Peaks Mountain Resort
11.4 km
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Drakensberg Canopy Tour
11.5 km
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Vertical Rush
12.6 km
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Mountain Splendour Eco-Resort
13.5 km
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Monkscowl Adventure
16.0 km
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Rainbow Gorge
16.5 km
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Leap Adventures - Cayley
17.1 km
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Cayley Mountain Resort
17.2 km
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Ribbon Falls
18.5 km
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Doreen Falls
18.9 km
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Four Rivers Rafting and Adventures
22.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant
7.0 km
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Lakeview Restaurant - Drakensberg Sun
11.2 km
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Dragon's Restaurant & Pub
11.3 km
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Mac's Café
15.5 km
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Champagne Bistro Cafè
16.3 km
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The Bell & Whistle
17.2 km
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Scrumpy Jacks Restaurant
22.3 km
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Thokozisa Restaurant
24.8 km
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The Farmer’s Fork Restaurant and Tapas Bar
25.0 km
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Izimbali Restaurant
27.3 km
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Waffle Hut
27.9 km
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The Pig and Plough
35.1 km
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The Bridge Lodge Restaurant
35.2 km
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Fam Pizza Restaurant
35.2 km
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Maboitumelo Catering and Boitumelo hall
35.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Oaks Supermarket
11.1 km
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HideSki OrganiX
13.3 km
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Mountain Splendour Cycles
13.7 km
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Inkungu Lodge Boutique Hotel
13.7 km
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Kwazulu candles and weavers
14.4 km
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The Nguni Guy Drakensberg
15.5 km
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Cedarwood Village Shopping Centre
15.5 km
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Ugly Duckling
15.5 km
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Cedarwood Supermarket
15.5 km
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Drakensberg Chocolate Memories
16.2 km
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Macedonia Cheese Co.
16.2 km
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The Valley Bakery
17.1 km
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Sandra se Winkel
17.6 km
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Wildhyde
21.6 km
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Deons Honey Products
22.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Nest Drakensberg Hotel
18.4 km
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The Overhang Bar
27.3 km
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Cathedral Peak Wines, Bergville
29.9 km
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LL
35.9 km
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Popcorn
39.4 km
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Joyce Offsales
41.9 km
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Montusi Mountain Lodge
59.5 km
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The Ledges Retreat
61.4 km
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The Cavern Resturant
61.7 km
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The Bent Arm Bar
64.1 km
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Meriting Wine & Dine
67.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite grilled cuisine and stunning views at Meriting Wine & Dine near Metsimatsho Dam.
Theola Moya Tarven
67.2 km
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The Nottingham Road Hotel
70.3 km
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Mofolo Tavern
71.6 km
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Corner House
71.9 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Monk's Cowl Country Club and Lodge
14.2 km
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Champagne Sports Resort
15.5 km
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Lube & Tube
48.3 km
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Sani Pass Border Control (Lesotho)
56.5 km
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Sani Pass Border Control, South Afrca
58.2 km
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Sani Pass Golf Course
64.9 km
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Sani Stagger
65.0 km
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Afriski Whistler Camp
66.2 km
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Club Maluti
73.4 km
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Nhlanhla shisanyama
74.8 km
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Monyaka By Nite
77.2 km
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Renaissance jazz club
78.2 km
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BLUEGUMBOSCH
79.0 km
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Underberg Country Club
79.8 km
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De Bult Jazz Club
80.4 km
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