Drakensberg Grand Traverse

The Grand Traverse of the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg is widely regarded as the ultimate South African hike — and one of the best long-distance hikes in the world. It’s a formidable challenge that tests physical strength, endurance, navigation skills, and mental grit. Add in teamwork, humour, and meticulous preparation, and you have all the ingredients for an unforgettable adventure through one of South Africa’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.

The Route

The Drakensberg Grand Traverse (DGT) begins at the Sentinel Car Park and ends at the Bushman’s Neck Border Post, summiting Mont Aux Sources, Cleft Peak, Champagne Castle, Mafadi, Giant’s Castle and Thabana Ntlenyana along the way. The route isn’t predefined, but most hikers follow a roughly 220–240km path that contours around ridges and valleys, using the most efficient line between major peaks. The recommended route, with GPS waypoints, is shown below.

Full route profile. Click to enlarge.

Fitness

The DGT is a serious physical undertaking with around 10,000m of cumulative ascent. Fit hikers typically take 8–12 days to complete it, averaging about 23km per day, while some opt for up to 15 days with a food resupply. Fast-and-light adventurers can complete it in under a week — the record stands at an incredible 41 hours and 49 minutes, set by Ryan Sandes and Ryno Griesel (watch their record run).

Trails and Facilities

This is a true wilderness experience: no shops, no huts, and no trail markers. You’ll walk across cattle paths, grassy ridges, and rivers — nothing technical, but the long days, heavy packs, and consistent climbing make it demanding.

Typical terrain on the DGT — grassy slopes and high escarpment ridges.

The only people you’re likely to meet are Basotho herdsmen and the occasional fellow hiker.

Basotho herdsmen on the escarpment.

Best Time to Go

Spring and autumn are the most popular times to attempt the traverse. Summer brings lush greenery and long daylight hours but also thunderstorms and humidity. Winter offers clear days and stable weather, but freezing temperatures and snow are possible. Whatever the season, expect rapid weather changes — lightning, rain, and strong winds can appear without warning.

Summer blooms along the escarpment. Photo by Romy Chevallier (@romychev).

Start and Finish

The hike officially begins at the Sentinel Car Park, accessed via Witsieshoek Mountain Resort, and gains the escarpment via the Chain Ladders. It ends at the Bushman’s Nek Border Post, typically descended via Thamathu Pass.

Navigating the Route

Good navigation skills are essential. Carry the full set of KZN Wildlife Drakensberg maps (1:50,000, sheets 1–6), a GPS device preloaded with waypoints, spare batteries, and printed backups. Dense fog can roll in at any time, obscuring landmarks and trails.

Low cloud is common — GPS navigation is vital.

Suggested 10-Day Itinerary

The following 10-day itinerary is based on the Supertraverse waypoint route, with a few scenic detours such as Tugela Falls and Mnweni Pass. Adjust campsites according to water availability, weather, and your group’s pace. Always check Berg Alert on the Vertical Endeavour forum for the latest security updates.

Suggested 10-day route overview. Click to enlarge.

Practical Tips

• Train well beforehand – long back-to-back hiking days are taxing.
• Carry sufficient layers and waterproof gear for unpredictable weather.
• Be self-sufficient: there are no resupply points along the route.
• Plan for multiple river crossings; water is generally available year-round.
• Respect the wilderness and follow Leave No Trace principles.

For route permits, fees, or booking procedures, contact Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife at +27 33 845 1000 or bookings@kznwildlife.com.

Download the full Supertraverse Drakensberg Grand Traverse Waypoints and use our Multi-Day Hiking Checklist for a safe, well-prepared expedition.