One of the most culturally and geographically diverse places on earth, South Africa, fondly known by locals as the 'Rainbow Nation', boasts 11 official languages, and its inhabitants are influenced by a fascinating mix of cultures. Discover the gourmet restaurants, impressive art scene, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches of Cape Town. Enjoy a local braai (barbecue) in the Soweto township, browse the bustling Indian markets in Durban, or sample some of the world's finest wines at the myriad wine estates dotting the Cape Winelands. Some historical attractions to explore include the Zululand battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, and Robben Island, just off the coast of Cape Town. Above all else, its untamed wilderness is astonishing: wildlife roams freely across massive unfenced game reserves such as the world-famous Kruger National Park.
KwaZulu-Natal, near the border with Lesotho, Cathedral Peak Nature Reserve is renowned for its dramatic mountain scenery, spectacular hiking trails, and excellent rock-climbing opportunities. Easily accessed from the town of Winterton, the reserve encompasses soaring sandstone cliffs, rolling grasslands, and crystal-clear mountain streams. Visitors can explore a network of trails catering to a range of fitness levels, from leisurely walks to challenging hikes. Highlights include the ancient San rock art sites of Ndedema Gorge and the rewarding ascent of Cathedral Peak, one of the Drakensberg’s most iconic summits. The climb offers breathtaking views of neighbouring peaks, including Giant’s Castle, The Bell, and Cleft Peak. A four-star hotel within the reserve provides comfortable accommodation, while day visitors can enjoy the region’s outstanding natural beauty and diverse wildlife.
Named after the jagged teeth of the mythical beast, the 'berg', as it is affectionally known, offers everything. Its ideal for nature lovers. Walking options range from serious hiking to gentle rambles beside crystal streams and through wooded glades. Other delights are its ancient San rock paintings at Giants Castle and Kamberg, the 4x4 ascent to the top of Sani Pass in the rugged Kingdom of Lesotho (which can be accessed only from the Southern Drakensberg), the world-class Drakensberg Boys Choir and the arts and craft studios along the Champagne Valley.
Much of the Drakensberg is protected as a National Park, the northern part offers an imposing wall of rock that rises 3000 metres. It is known to the Zulus as the Barrier of Spears and to the first European settlers as the Dragon's Mountains, the Drakensberg is a UNESCO World Heritage sites, for the heritage of the San Paintings and its natural beauty.
Nearby the gentle beauty of the Natal Midlands in the foothills also offers unusual craft studios, art galleries, herb farms and charming country pubs, as well as the Mandela Capture site which is now home to a small museum.
