Drakensberg - a South African tourist attraction

The Drakensberg is an irregular escarpment over 1000km long forming the chief watershed of South Africa. The name Drakensberg means „Dragon Mountain“. The Zulus, an indigenous population of South Africa called it UKHUHLAMBA“ which means „ a barrier of spears.“ Although it spreads further north and south than the province of KwaZulu Natal (KZN) , the Drakensberg within KZN is the most spectacular part of the Drakensberg range. The Drakensberg itself extends 200km from Mont-aux-Sources in the north to Bushman`s Nek in the south. The height and extent of this escarpment makes the Drakensberg the most distinctive and striking geographical features of Southern Africa.

The Drakensberg in KZN is divided into three main regions, namely the Northern Drakensberg, Cenral Drakensberg and Southern Drakensberg. The Northern berg forms the watershed for theTugela River. Royal Natal National Park is a very popular part of this region. The peak, Mont-aux-Sources (3282ft) is the highest peak in this part of the Berg, which stretches as far south as Cathedral Peak. (3148ft) Bergville, meaning „ Mountain Village“ is a small village on the R74 that leads to the Central Drakensberg.

The Central Drakensberg is the most popular part of the Drakensberg and has a higher population due to it,s easy access right into the mountains with breathtaking scenery. Here you feel truly humbled by the sheer beauty and magnificence of the awesome peaks to be seen. No matter how often you return, the Drakensberg mountains take on a different beauty depending on the weather and the light allowing every visit to be a new experience.. The highest peak in the Central Drakensberg is Champagne Castle. (3248ft)