Hiking in the Central Drakensberg is probably the most popular activity. Arguably one of the biggest drawcards to the Central Drakensberg is the impressive mountain range and exquisite beauty. I am reminded of a popular saying “Hiking is the answer. Who cares what the question is”?
Mountains are therapeutic and it is a great place to escape to for healing. Promoting relaxation and the opportunity to reconnect with nature. Hiking as well as gentle walks are great family activities too. A time for bonding, fun and laughter in wide open spaces, away for the routine schedule of work and school.
Here is our list of popular hikes, most are within a quick and easy drive from The Nest Hotel.
Blue Grotto
This is a moderate walk that starts at the Drakensberg Sun. It takes you through an indigenous forest that leads to a magnificent grotto with a waterfall and pool.
Total hike (km’s) 6.6 | Total Duration 3.5 hours
The Sphinx
Another popular hike starts from the Monks Cowl Ezemvelo Entrance. A moderate hike to the Sphinx leads you past Crystal Falls, a small waterfall offering a refreshing stop before the final stretch to the Sphinx. The views from the top are stunning and well worth the walk.
Total hike (km’s) 4.8 | Total Duration 2.5 hours
Cleo’s Pool
An easy walk that starts from the Drakensberg Sun, taking you through grasslands and ending at Cleo’s Pool, a natural swimming pool in the river.
Total hike (km’s) 7.2 | Total Duration 3 hours
Sterkspruit Falls
An easy walk starting from the Monks Cowl Ezemvelo Entrance leads you to the Sterkspruit Falls. The path arrives at a viewing platform as the top of the falls, offering an impressive view of the cascading waterfall.
Total hike (km’s) 2.8 | Total Duration 1.5 hours
Sterkspruit Falls and Nandi Falls
The two combined make for a scenic meandering hike that takes you on a circular trip back to the Monks Cowl entrance.
Total hike (km’s) 8 | Total Duration 4 hours
Tugela Falls
Now considered the tallest waterfall in the world! Take a scenic drive to Royal Natal National Park in the Northern Drakensberg. This incredible day hike, also known as Tugela Gorge Hike is a firm favourite. It is the most popular in the area and with such impressive beauty, it is not hard to understand why.
Total hike (km’s) 15 | Total Duration 6 hours
Remove the noise of everyday life and come and experience the best of what the mountains have to offer. Grab your rucksack, pack your hiking boots and come explore our beautiful Drakensberg mountains.
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