What it is
The uKhahlamba-Drakensberg range, rising to around 3,400 m on the South African side. The Amphitheatre in the Royal Natal area is a curved cliff wall several kilometres long. Cathedral Peak and Giant's Castle are the other main bases. The range is a World Heritage site for both its landscape and its rock art.
Why go
Walking, from two-hour valley strolls to overnight climbs onto the escarpment. San painters worked in these caves over thousands of years and the guided shelters at Giant's Castle and Kamberg still have clear panels. The Sani Pass, a 4×4 track up into Lesotho, is the day trip most visitors take.
When to go
April to September is dry, clear and cold, with snow on the tops in midwinter and the sharpest views. November to March is green and warm but brings afternoon thunderstorms that build fast. Lightning kills people on the escarpment most summers, so walk early and be off the high ground by lunchtime.
Most people stay 3 nights.