Durban to the Drakensberg
South Africa
From Durban's Indian Ocean beachfront west into the Drakensberg, the Barrier of Spears, through the Zulu heartlands, the Midlands Meander of cheese farms and craft studios, the Cathedral Peak wilderness, and up the legendary Sani Pass to Lesotho, the mountain kingdom in the clouds at 2,874 metres.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Durban
South Africa's surf and spice city. The Golden Mile beachfront, Victoria Street spice market, and India's largest diaspora outside India give Durban its singular energy.
- Pietermaritzburg
Natal's Victorian capital of red-brick grandeur. A Gandhi statue marks the station where he was thrown off a train in 1893, igniting his political awakening.
- Midlands Meander
KwaZulu-Natal's craft and food route through misty grasslands. Dalewood cheese, Nottingham Road Brewery, and fly-fishing lodges reward those who linger.
- Cathedral Peak
Iconic Drakensberg summit visible 80km away. The Mlambonja valley approach through giant ferns and waterfalls is among South Africa's most beautiful drives.
- Royal Natal National Park
Home to the Amphitheatre, a 5km basalt wall dropping 1,000m, and Tugela Falls, the world's second-highest waterfall at 948m. A short detour north of Bergville.
- Sani Pass
Twenty kilometres of gravel switchbacks climb 1,332m to Africa's highest border crossing at 2,874m. The Sani Mountain Lodge holds the highest pub on the continent.
Where to Eat
- Piggly Wiggly Coffee ShopCafé
A charming café offering freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries in a relaxed countryside setting.
- The Bierfassl Restaurant and PubGerman
Authentic German cuisine and a wide selection of beers in a cozy, Bavarian-style pub.
- La LamparaItalian
Traditional Italian dishes served in a rustic farmhouse with scenic views of the Midlands.
- Tumble Downs CaféContemporary
Modern dishes with a local twist, set in a picturesque location overlooking the Karkloof Valley.
- Blueberry CaféCafé
Known for its signature blueberry cheesecake and panoramic views of the Drakensberg.
Things to Do
- Karkloof Canopy TourAdventure
Experience thrilling zip-line rides through the Karkloof forest, offering unique views of the canopy.
- Nelson Mandela Capture SiteHistoric Site
Visit the iconic sculpture and museum commemorating Nelson Mandela's arrest in 1962.
- Howick FallsScenic Viewpoint
Witness the majestic 95-meter waterfall, a significant natural landmark in the area.
- Midmar DamRecreational Area
Enjoy water sports, picnics, and fishing in this expansive dam surrounded by rolling hills.
- Chocolate HeavenFood Experience
Indulge in artisanal chocolates and participate in chocolate dipping workshops.
Travel advisory
Mountain passes into the Drakensberg can be steep and winding; snow or ice is possible in winter months (June to August). Some resort and reserve access roads are gravel, and a high-clearance vehicle is useful for Cathedral Peak and Giant's Castle detours.