Formed over 200 million years ago, during the Precambrian times, as a result of volcanic eruptions covering a large area of the Southern African sub-continent with lava. This base rock was then covered, during the Palaeozoic Era, by thick layers of shale, mudstone and sandstone, now known as the Karoo Supergroup. Subsequent extreme forces caused by Gondwanaland breaking up and continued erosion over the years have moulded the Drakensberg into what we know today.
The Drakensberg, otherwise known as the "Dragon Mountain" by Afrikaner settlers due to it's Dragon like features or "Barrier of Spears" by the local Zulu inhabitants, has been a sanctuary for inhabitants, specifically the bushmen, dating back thousands of years and testament to this is the sheer amount of rock paintings found throughout the range, a massive 35,000 to 40,000 works of bushmen art which is the largest collection of such work in the world.
These days the visitors and local inhabitants don't frequent the mountain range to paint (unless it's on a canvas and of the spectacular views and wildlife) but rather to bask in it's splendid beauty whilst partaking in the many activities on offer at this tourist destination.
Spanning a length of over 1,000km (600 miles) it extends through four provinces and two landlocked countries within South Africa. Because of this, the mountain range has many distinctive views, flora and fauna at each of it's three main sections.
Northern Drakensberg runs from the Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State province to the Royal Natal National Park in the Kwazulu-Natal province.
Central Drakensberg comprises the Bergview, Champagne Valley, Winterton and Cathkin Park areas. This section served as the backdrop for the historical Boer war and thus has many Battlefields enthusiasts flocking to this destination annually.
The Southern Drakensberg region extends down to the Transkei and is not as developed as the other two regions but by no means less breathtaking.
In late 2000 the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park section of the Drakensberg was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to it's biodiversity and cultural history. Today, the park is a world class ecotourism centre.
The Royal Natal National Park hosts the Tugela Falls which, at a height of 947m (3 110ft) along five falls, is recorded as the second largest in the world.
Access to the falls can be achieved by two trails, the advanced and definitely the most awe-inspiring trail is to the top of Mount-aux-Sources and will take about five hours for a return trip. This trail is for you If you are looking for a day hiking trail to take you to the top of the Drakensberg escapement.
The second, and definitely easier trail, is to the foot of the Tugela Falls which starts at the Royal Natal National Park. The 7km hike up the Tugela Gorge meanders through pristine forests and up to a breathtaking view of the tiered falls flowing down the Amphitheatre.
Activities in the Drakensberg are plentiful and suitable to all preferences. The most obvious activity, in such a picturesque setting, is hiking or walking. Take advantage of all the well laid out hiking and walking trails, whether you prefer a few hours of easy walking or a 5 day long hiking trek, you won't be disappointed. Experienced guides, very knowledgeable in the history of the area, are available to take you on an adventure.
Other activities include rock climbing, abseiling, golf, arts-and-crafts, hot air ballooning, fishing, boating, team building, horse riding and many more.
By exploring the Berg you might not awaken the spirit of the sleeping Dragon but we definitely assure you that your senses will be awakened by the superb beauty and mysticism of this glorious, ancient mountain range.
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