Guide to the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park of South Africa

Covering an area of 240,000ha the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park is dominated by sheer cliffs, deeply incised valleys and crystal clear rivers. The uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park is an obvious destination choice of any experienced Eco Traveller and forms an integral focal point of this unique area and especially so since its declaration as a World Heritage Site (Both Natural and Historical). The many rivers, wetlands, indigenous forests and the rolling grasslands are home to a diverse range of animals and plants, including many endemic and endangered species. The Cranes and the Blue Swallow are all critically endangered and fortunately viable populations do still exist in this area of South Africa.

KZN Wildlife (Natal Parks Board) are the custodians of the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park and many of the smaller reserves that dot the landscape. Other than relaxation, hiking and walking are the primary activities in these reserves and there are literally hundreds of options from gentle walks to epic hikes that would test even the most seasoned of hikers endurance! Other activities include one of my favourites, birding; and horse riding, fishing, swimming, cycling and canoeing.

The uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park is one of the richest rock painting areas in the world. Many enthusiasts and experts have searched for paintings in the park over the last 40 years. During this time 30 000 individually painted images in 520 different rock shelters have been recorded.