Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park - A mountain refuge The magnificent mountain range dominating the western border of KwaZulu-Natal has long been regarded as one of the jewels of the province. The Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg Park is a vast conservation area which has been proclaimed a World Heritage Site for both its outstanding natural environment as well as the cultural significance of the ancient San rock paintings found in the caves and overhangs. In this majestic mountain range you can explore a world of gigantic peaks and buttresses, towering sandstone cliffs, steep valleys and gorges, indigenous forests, rushing rivers and waterfalls, including the Thuleka Falls, the second highest in the world. It is an ideal destination for adventure seekers who thrive on the challenges of the high mountains, but is also a wonderful place for those who prefer to relax in a comfortable mountain resort and just enjoy the view and the clear mountain air. The famous Amphitheatre at Royal Natal National Park, Cathedral Peak, Giant's Castle and the wild and lonely Mnweni Valley dominate the northern and central Drakensberg. In the Southern Drakensberg there are no less than 26 peaks higher than 10 000 ft (3050 m), such as Hodgson's Peak and the Rhino. Thabana Ntlenyana at 3,482 metres, is the second highest point in Africa (after Mount Kilimanjaro), and is accessible via Sani Pass. Most of the province's major rivers rise in these rugged peaks, which are home to Black Eagle, the extremely rare Bearded Vulture ('Lammergeyer'), rare Cranes and grassland species, troops of baboon, and some 2 500 eland. There are a number of resorts, mountain lodges and camping sites throughout the Drakensberg from which to explore this magnificent mountain wilderness. Activities include hiking, trout fishing, horse riding, paragliding, golf, tennis and bowls. Bustling mountain hamlets like Underberg, Himeville, Bergville and Winterton are essentially farming towns but also have thriving craft industries, B&Bs and guest houses for tourists. The weather is warm and sunny for most of the year. Night time temperatures during winter can plummet to well below freezing and snowfalls are not uncommon. San rock art San hunter-gatherers lived in these mountains from around 8 000 years ago to the mid-1800s, leaving behind a fabulous wealth of rock art in the caves and overhangs. These paintings provide a rare glimpse of the San lifestyle and belief systems that are now extinct in the region, depicting complex hunting scenes, trances and rituals. There are about 6 000 recognised San rock art sites within the Park, some dating back 2 400 years. The paintings are found in caves and overhangs, many of which are easily accessible. The Main Caves in Giant's Castle are less than two kms walk from the rest camp, and feature San rock art as well as a San museum. Battle Cave in Injasuti has no less than 750 paintings. A visit to the rock art sites is a must. The images depicted are highly symbolic and complex, and well informed local guides will explain their significance. Hiking trails The Park is criss-crossed with countless trails varying from extreme two to four day hikes with nights spent in mountain caves or high altitude huts, to relaxed walks of a few hours. All the mountain resorts have maps showing local trails which are well marked and provide exciting views and experiences. Note that overnight hikers must be prepared for extreme weather conditions and fill out the mountain register before setting out. The quickest route to the top of the escarpment is in the Northern Berg. The well marked trail takes you from the Witsieshoek carpark up a chain ladder to the top. You are above the magnificent Amphitheatre, where the Thukela River rises and plunges over the edge in a spectacular waterfall. The view is truly awe-inspiring, and on a clear day you can almost see the sea. Trout Fishing The fast-flowing rivers and dams found throughout the Park are well stocked with brown and rainbow trout. They are strong fighting fish and are excellent fried or grilled. Sani Pass by 4 X 4 Sani Pass is an old mule track that takes you from the Sani Pass Hotel to the top of the Drakensberg and into Lesotho. The road is a tortuous switchback that climbs at a steep angle and provides 4x4 drivers with an exciting challenge. There is a comfortable lodge at the top where you can spend the night, and enjoy a drink in the highest pub in Africa. East Griqualand East Griqualand is a scenic country of gentle, rolling hills nestling beneath the shadow of the southern Drakensberg mountains, far from the hustle and bustle of the big cities. A holiday in East Griqualand is primarily an outdoor adventure, with a wide variety of activities including flyfishing, microlighting, polo, ox-cart rides, 4x4 trails, horse riding, clay pigeon shooting, rock climbing, canoeing, birding, mountain biking, abseiling and hiking.