For adventurers wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg, the Drakensberg Mountains offer a hiking experience of epic proportions. This dramatic escarpment, nicknamed the “Barrier of Spears,” features cloud-piercing peaks, ancient rock art, and the breathtaking Amphitheater—a sheer cliff face soaring 4,000 feet. The mountains offer accommodation, including the family-run lodge Cavern Lodge, where travelers can stay while they hike and explore the surroundings. Visitors to the region should consider hiring local guides, as their cultural depth and knowledge of the mountains can enrich the experience. Among other things, travelers can explore Jackal Hill and wander into the sculpted canyons of Tugela Gorge near one of the world’s tallest waterfalls, while encountering wildlife and wildflowers.
The New York Times
