Tourism, Accommodation and Historical Attractions in Natal, South Africa

Introduction to the Northern Drakensberg

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Extends from the Free State in the north to Cathedral Peak in the south and contains the most and least visited tourism regions of the Berg - for different reasons.

The Royal Natal National Park

The Royal Natal National Park (20,000 acres) Amphitheatre escarpment was used as the backdrop for the film 'Zulu' with the Tugela river leaping 800 metres (2,700ft) over the top on its way to the Indian Ocean, the second highest waterfall in the world.

A network of paths crisscross the park permitting more than 30 easy walks to hard climbs. The scenery is breathtaking, whether it's the mountains or a small waterfall. Self catering acommodation and camping is available within the park and there are bed and breakfasts, lodges and hotels around the park.

The Mnweni Triangle

The Mnweni ('finger') area by contrast is devoid of almost all of the tourist trappings over the hill. The area is a tribal area and plans are currently afoot to develop the area for tourism.

The area includes 20 miles of challenging, spectacular Drakensberg scenery. Its very remoteness is part of it's character.

There is a small self catering camp in the Mnweni valley. Visitors take a day or two to slow down to the pace of rural Zulu life.

The Free State Drakensberg

Although not in kwaZulu Natal, the Golden Gate National Park and the Sentinel Mountain Drive form part of the Drakensberg and are included as part of this site.

The Mountain Drive allows visitors to drive almost to the summit along the side of the mountain with beautiful views. The Witsieshoek Mountain Resort provides food and accommodation even at this altitude.