Discover the Vibrant Beauty of Rainbow Gorge
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant colors of Rainbow Gorge, a must-visit natural park in South Africa for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Nestled in the heart of South Africa, Rainbow Gorge is a breathtaking natural park that showcases stunning landscapes, vibrant colors, and a serene atmosphere, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike. With its striking rock formations and lush surroundings, visitors can enjoy hiking, photography, and peaceful picnics in this picturesque setting.
A brief summary to Rainbow Gorge
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Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best light for photography and to avoid crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
- Wear comfortable footwear suitable for hiking to fully enjoy the trails.
- Check the weather beforehand, as conditions can change rapidly in this area.
- Consider bringing binoculars for birdwatching; the park is home to many unique species.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, take the N3 highway towards the Drakensberg Mountains. Exit at the R600 towards Winterton. Continue on the R600 until you reach the town of Winterton. From Winterton, take the R600 to the R74. Follow the R74, which will lead you towards the Royal Natal National Park. Ensure you have a map or GPS device to help navigate to the park entrance. Once you reach the park entrance, there may be an entrance fee, so be prepared with cash or a card. After entering the park, follow the signs for Rainbow Gorge, which is a short drive from the entrance.
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Public Transportation
If you are traveling by public transport, take a bus from Johannesburg to Winterton. Make sure to check the bus schedules in advance as they may vary. Upon arrival in Winterton, you can hire a taxi or arrange for a shuttle service to take you to the Royal Natal National Park. It is advisable to book a taxi in advance, as public transport options within the Drakensberg area can be limited. Once you arrive at the park, be ready to pay the entrance fee to enter and follow the signs directing you to Rainbow Gorge.
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Hiking/Walking
If you are within the Royal Natal National Park and prefer to hike, you can access Rainbow Gorge by following the designated hiking trails. Make sure to have a map of the trails available at the park entrance. The hike to Rainbow Gorge is relatively easy, but ensure you wear comfortable hiking shoes and carry enough water and snacks. The trails are well-marked, and park rangers can provide guidance if needed.
Discover more about Rainbow Gorge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cathedral Peak Hotel
3.7 km
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Didima Camp Cathedral Peak
4.0 km
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Monk's Cowl
16.5 km
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Champagne Castle
16.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Champagne Castle, a gem in the Drakensberg, perfect for hiking and nature lovers seeking adventure.
Umphafa Berg Tours
19.9 km
Embark on an unforgettable adventure in the Drakensberg Mountains with Umphafa Berg Tours, your trusted guide to nature's wonders.
Berg Escape - 6 Kiepersol
19.9 km
Experience the beauty of the Drakensberg at Berg Escape, a serene self-catering accommodation in Champagne Valley, perfect for nature lovers and families.
Drakensberg Sun Resort
20.2 km
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Champagne Castle Hotel
20.8 km
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Mponjwane Cave
20.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Mponjwane Cave in Lesotho, a perfect campground for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Orchard Manor
21.0 km
Experience tranquility at Orchard Manor in Cathkin Park, offering stunning views, spacious self-catering accommodations, and a gateway to nature's beauty.
Clivia Hill Guest Cottage
21.2 km
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Champagne Haven
21.4 km
Experience tranquility and stunning nature at Champagne Haven in the heart of the Drakensberg Mountains, ideal for your self-catering getaway.
Inkunzi Cave and Zulu Hut
21.6 km
Experience the beauty of the Drakensberg at Inkunzi Cave and Zulu Hut, where nature and Zulu heritage come together for an unforgettable stay.
Cayley Lodge
21.8 km
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Wits End Mountain Resort
22.1 km
Experience tranquility and adventure at Wits End Mountain Resort, nestled in the stunning Drakensberg mountains, perfect for nature lovers and explorers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ribbon Falls
2.2 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Ribbon Falls, a serene waterfall in South Africa perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Doreen Falls
2.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Doreen Falls in the Mkhomazi Wilderness, a serene escape perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Bell's Cave
10.2 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich heritage of Bell's Cave, a perfect hiking destination in South Africa's stunning landscapes.
Cathedral Peak
10.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Cathedral Peak, a stunning mountain peak in the Drakensberg Mountains, Kokwane.
Tjonono
14.3 km
Explore Tjonono, a breathtaking tourist attraction in Lesotho, where stunning landscapes meet rich cultural heritage and unforgettable experiences await.
North Peak
15.3 km
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Sterkhorn
16.3 km
Explore Sterkhorn, a breathtaking hiking area in the Drakensberg of South Africa, where stunning landscapes and adventure await.
Cathkin Peak
17.0 km
Explore Cathkin Peak, a breathtaking mountain in the Drakensberg, offering stunning views, diverse trails, and a unique natural experience for all adventure seekers.
Oranje Begin
18.5 km
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iKhayalamafu Mountain Reserve
19.1 km
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Drakensberg Canopy Tour
20.0 km
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mNweni Cultural & Hiking Centre
21.1 km
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Drakensberg
21.2 km
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Dam HAARD
21.5 km
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Dragon Peaks Mountain Resort
21.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant
19.8 km
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Lakeview Restaurant - Drakensberg Sun
20.2 km
Discover exceptional dining at Lakeview Restaurant in Drakensberg Sun Resort - where local flavors meet breathtaking mountain views.
Dragon's Restaurant & Pub
21.7 km
Experience authentic South African flavors at Dragon's Restaurant & Pub, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Cathkin Park's Drakensberg mountains.
The Bell & Whistle
21.7 km
Discover local flavors and breathtaking views at The Bell & Whistle in Cathkin Park, your culinary retreat in the heart of the Drakensberg.
Mac's Café
24.6 km
Experience delightful dining at Mac's Café in Cathkin Park, where local flavors meet breathtaking views.
Champagne Bistro Cafè
24.9 km
Discover delightful bistro dining at Champagne Bistro Cafè along R600 - where every meal is infused with local flavor and charm.
Scrumpy Jacks Restaurant
29.1 km
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The Farmer’s Fork Restaurant and Tapas Bar
30.2 km
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Thokozisa Restaurant
30.2 km
Experience authentic South African cuisine at Thokozisa Restaurant in Cathkin Park amidst breathtaking Drakensberg landscapes.
Sandford Park Country Hotel
32.2 km
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Waffle Hut
32.7 km
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The Pig and Plough
35.9 km
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The Bridge Lodge Restaurant
36.1 km
Experience delightful dining at The Bridge Lodge Restaurant in Winterton, where lodge comfort meets vibrant pub life amidst breathtaking surroundings.
Fam Pizza Restaurant
37.1 km
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Maboitumelo Catering and Boitumelo hall
37.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Oaks Supermarket
21.6 km
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HideSki OrganiX
22.0 km
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Mountain Splendour Cycles
24.0 km
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The Nguni Guy Drakensberg
24.6 km
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Cedarwood Village Shopping Centre
24.6 km
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Ugly Duckling
24.6 km
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Cedarwood Supermarket
24.6 km
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Kwazulu candles and weavers
24.7 km
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Inkungu Lodge Boutique Hotel
24.8 km
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Macedonia Cheese Co.
24.9 km
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Drakensberg Chocolate Memories
24.9 km
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The Valley Bakery
25.3 km
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Sandra se Winkel
27.5 km
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Wildhyde
28.8 km
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Deons Honey Products
29.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Nest Drakensberg Hotel
26.4 km
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Cathedral Peak Wines, Bergville
28.3 km
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Popcorn
30.9 km
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LL
37.6 km
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The Overhang Bar
43.6 km
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Montusi Mountain Lodge
43.9 km
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The Ledges Retreat
45.4 km
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The Cavern Resturant
45.6 km
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Joyce Offsales
46.5 km
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The Bent Arm Bar
49.4 km
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Theola Moya Tarven
50.8 km
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Meriting Wine & Dine
51.1 km
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Mofolo Tavern
55.2 km
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Corner House
55.4 km
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Big Roots Lounge
56.3 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Monk's Cowl Country Club and Lodge
24.4 km
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Champagne Sports Resort
24.6 km
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Lube & Tube
45.4 km
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Club Maluti
57.7 km
Dance the night away at Club Maluti – Lesotho's premier nightlife destination offering lively music and an unforgettable cultural experience.
Nhlanhla shisanyama
58.4 km
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Monyaka By Nite
60.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Monyaka By Nite, a lively night club in Phuthaditjhaba, where music and dance come alive.
Renaissance jazz club
61.9 km
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BLUEGUMBOSCH
62.9 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Bluegumbosch, the premier night club in Matsikeng, Phuthaditjhaba, where music and dance unite.
De Bult Jazz Club
64.0 km
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Tekelas Tarven
64.0 km
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Jazz Club Drinking In Style
64.1 km
Discover the best of live jazz at Jazz Club Drinking In Style in Bluegumbosch - where every note tells a story.
Stanville Lounge
65.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Phuthaditjhaba at Stanville Lounge, where great music and refreshing drinks await.
Okipalema Peach
66.7 km
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Sani Pass Border Control (Lesotho)
67.7 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of Lesotho at the Sani Pass Border Control, a gateway to adventure in Southern Africa.
Sani Pass Border Control, South Afrca
70.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Sani Pass Border Control, the gateway to Lesotho nestled in the majestic Drakensberg Mountains.
