Drakensberg Grand Traverse
South Africa / Lesotho · Africa · Thru-hike / long-distance trail · score 66/100
At a glance
| Countries | South Africa; Lesotho |
|---|---|
| Continent | Africa |
| Region | uKhahlamba-Drakensberg |
| Type | Thru-hike / long-distance trail |
| Length | 220 km |
| Typical duration | 10-14 days |
| Difficulty | 5/5 (Very hard) |
| Max altitude | 3482 m |
| Best season | Mar-May, Sep-Nov |
| Start | Mont-aux-Sources |
| End | Bushman's Nek |
| Permit / guide | escarpment camping permits (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife); no guide required |
| Special gear | none (navigation skills essential; no marked path) |
Score
66/100
Serious, unmarked 220 km escarpment traverse on the SA/Lesotho border past the Tugela Falls; among the world's great self-reliant treks.
How the score works: scoring method. Information confidence: high.
Notes
~220 km, typically 12 days (10-14 range).
Sources
Information compiled from public sources, as of October 19, 2026. Trail conditions, permits and closures change: verify with local authorities before you go.
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