Tourism, Accommodation and Historical Attractions in Natal, South Africa

Northern Drakensberg: Mnweni

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Mnweni ('fingers' after some of the sharp peaks) is not part of the Drakensberg World Heritage site but, as a consequence offers visitors a glimpse of rural African life in an unspoilt, tourism-free environment.

Mnweni has long been considered by climbers to be the most difficult part of the Drakensberg to climb. It is remote, with a full day's walk from the car to the foot of the mountains.

It is bounded by Cathedral Peak in the south and the Eastern Buttress of the Royal Natal National Park in the north - fully 30kms of the Drakensberg escarpment. The Mnweni river and it's tributaries forms the major water supply to the Woodstock Dam and hence to the Drakensberg Pumped Storage Scheme.

To Do:

• Fancy your climbing skills? Try some of the climbs in this area!
• Hire one of the local guides and let him show you the area like a local.
• Nothing - just admire the view from the huts.

To See:

• The cows coming to the river.
• The cows returning from the river.
• Relax and enjoy the view of 30kms of unspoilt Drakensberg.

Accommodation:

• Self catering accommodation at the Amangwane Cultural Centre in the Mnweni valley.