Hiking excursion up Cathedral Peak, Drakensberg

The Drakensberg is the highest mountain range in South Africa and is a vast area of rugged mountains that are a hiking paradise. Due to its natural beauty and biodiversity value, the Drakensberg area was also declared a World Heritage Site.

One of the most popular peaks to bag and one of the most distinctive peaks of South Africa. A must if you would like getting to the top of a sharp peak but are not a rock-climber.

This trek starts from the Nature Conservation office at Cathedral Peak wilderness area, elevation 1300m. The route follows a good path to the foot of the main peak, then ascends the final few hundred meters to the summit, via a short scramble section where clients are roped up. We either sleep in a cave or in tents high on the mountain. On this hike there are great views of Monks’ Cowl, Mafadi and Champagne Castle.

The route
The entire route is a moderate hike, taking about 10 hours of actual walking and is on steep paths all the way. Only day packs are carried from the over night camp to the summit and back. The scramble section is not particularly difficult, however the guide often uses a rope in this section, especially if it is wet.

When to visit
This trek can be done at anytime of the year. It must be noted that June to September are the colder months with night temperatures often below freezing. Snowfalls can also occur. During the Southern African summer the mountains receive afternoon thundershowers and high daytime temperatures. However, cold, wet and windy weather can be encountered at anytime of year!