The Drakensberg Mountains extend for almost 1000 kms, from the Eastern Cape through KwaZulu-Natal to the Free State. This beautiful Mountain Range forms the border between South Africa and a portion of Lesotho. Growing up in KwaZulu-Natal, THE BERG, as we call it, always became the choice of destination for most holidays.
This weekend took us to the wonderful Mahai campsite, nestled between the high peaks of the Royal Natal National Park in the Northern Drakensberg. We would recommend booking a campsite WITHOUT ELECTRICITY. That continuous feeling of load shedding surrounded by high peaks and a sky full of stars will humble you.
Mahai Camp has a lot to offer, from braai facilities, campsites, caravan sites, day visitors area, wash up facilities and clean ablutions. The activities range from a competitive cricket match on the fields between campsites to afternoon sundowners on the rocks at CASCADES to the more serious multi day hike to the top of the Amphitheatre to visit the tallest waterfall in the world, THE TUGELA FALLS.
Our weekend started with setting up our campsite. We arrived around midday on the Friday and were welcomed by beautiful sunshine with +30 degree temperatures. The tent went up quickly with the help of cold a BEER. Once set up, we ventured off to THE CASCADES, which involves a short walk to cascading waterfalls. A perfect place to have a few sundowners and a swim, if you dare to brave the icy water.
Day 2 began very early, as we woke up and got into preparation mode for our big GORGE WALK. The 16 km roundtrip would be tough and rewarding. The weather was good, but very hot. We ventured off early and hiked to the famous gorge at the foot of the AMHPHITHEATRE.
Day 3 began with coffee with a little sunrise. There is something majestic about the golden sunrise lighting up the face of a mountain. The perfect morning unfortunately ended with us packing up and then commencing with the long journey back home.
We had a wonderful time camping with family and were sad to leave. Mahai Campsite is definitely one for the Drakensberg itinerary and we can highly recommend the facilities, price and location.