Johannesburg

CROSSING THE DRAGON: TREKKING ALONG THE DRAKENSBERG - SOUTH AFRICA AND LESOTHO


Hiking

Category

11 days

Duration

Intermediate

Experience

Intense

Fitness

From 1 to 10

Participants


What you'll do

Embark on an unforgettable 11-day adventure across South Africa and Lesotho, trekking through the mighty Drakensberg range. This journey takes you through two countries, climbing the highest peaks in Southern Africa. Over 10 days of trekking, you’ll experience rugged terrain, breathtaking ridgelines, and remote valleys. Walk the old mountain paths, cross high passes, and camp under star-filled skies in secluded spots far from civilization. Along the way, visit iconic landmarks like Tugela Falls, Mnweni Pinnacles, and The Organ Pipes, and encounter the fascinating Basotho herders in Lesotho. This is your chance to explore one of the most awe-inspiring regions of Africa, with a professional guide and porters to ensure a seamless and safe experience.


Itinerary

  • Transfer5 hours
  • AccommodationsLodge
  • Transfer2 hours
  • Hiking14 km (8.7 mi) ↑ +800 m (+2,625 ft) ↓ -300 m (-985 ft) ◷ 4 hours
  • AccommodationsCamp
  • Hiking21 km (13 mi) ↑ +1,200 m (+3,937 ft) ↓ -1,300 m (-4,265 ft) ◷ 10 hours
  • AccommodationsCamp
  • Hiking16 km (9.9 mi) ↑ +1,300 m (+4,265 ft) ↓ -1,200 m (-3,937 ft) ◷ 8–10 hours
  • AccommodationsCamp
  • Hiking14 km (8.7 mi) ↑ +1,000 m (+3,280 ft) ↓ -600 m (-1,970 ft) ◷ 6 hours
  • AccommodationsCamp
  • Hiking20 km (12.4 mi) ↑ +900 m (+2,950 ft) ↓ -800 m (-2,625 ft) ◷ 8 hours
  • AccommodationsCamp
  • Hiking16 km (9.9 mi) ↑ +1,000 m (+3,280 ft) ↓ -1,000 m (-3,280 ft) ◷ 8 hours
  • AccommodationsCamp
  • Hiking16 km (9.9 mi) ↑ +700 m (+2,300 ft) ↓ -800 m (-2,625 ft) ◷ 8 hours
  • AccommodationsCamp
  • Hiking26 km (16.2 mi) ↑ +1,050 m (+3,445 ft) ↓ -750 m (-2,460 ft) ◷ 8–10 hours
  • AccommodationsCamp
  • Hiking14 km (8.7 mi) ↑ +430 m (+1,410 ft) ↓ -740 m (-2,425 ft) ◷ 4–6 hours
  • AccommodationsLodge
  • Accommodations5-6 hours

Important stuff

From the highest peaks to the hidden trails, we've got your back

Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.

Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.

Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

see more on How it works

What's included

Accident insurance
Medical and luggage insurance
Travel cancellation insurance
All required permits and fees for national park access
Transport from airport
Transport to airport
Porters
All meals
Flight
Visa (if applicable)
Snacks and drinks
Everything not mentioned in the “What’s included”
Tips
Expenditure of personal nature

Accommodations

Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge (Day 1)


Nestled at the foot of the Drakensberg escarpment, this comfortable lodge offers cozy rooms with panoramic views of the Amphitheatre. A perfect base to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Mountain Camps (Days 2–9)


Throughout the trek, you'll camp in expedition-style tents, with porters setting up and cooking. Expect rustic comfort surrounded by wilderness, far from civilization, beneath star-filled skies.

Sani Pass Mountain Lodge (day 10)


Located at the top of Sani Pass, this lodge offers cozy rooms and a chance to unwind after the trek. Enjoy hot showers, a hearty meal, and a drink at Africa’s Highest Pub.

Guides

Kai Fitchen

Kai Fitchen

Kai Fitchen is a seasoned mountaineer, guide, and conservationist with extensive experience leading treks across the Drakensberg and Lesotho. His deep knowledge of the region, paired with his passion for conservation and the outdoors, ensures you’ll experience the true spirit of the mountains, safely and responsibly.


Frequently asked questions


Departures

All departures are guaranteed to run


€4,690.00

(€1,547 deposit)
Mapo Tapo

© Mapo Tapo - Mapo Tapo S.r.l - Viale Piceno, 6 - 20129 Milano (MI)
Tour Operator - Vat no 11336700965 - Reg. Impr. Milano 07-08-2020 no 11336700965
Liability Insurance: Policy no. 12137336 - EUROP ASSISTANCE
Travel Guarantee: FONDO CONSORTILE DI GARANZIA - Vacanze garantite - cert. no 2026092797AT


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