The high traverse of the northern Drakensberg is one of the most popular hikes on the High Berg as this is arguably, the most spectacular section of the whole range. From the beginning to the end this hike is full of memorable views. The descent to the Cathedral Peak Hotel via the Bell Traverse is without a doubt the most remarkable day you can have in these mountains.
Click here to have a look at our last Mini Traverse.
This hike can only be attempted by those with extended hiking experience, with high level of fitness and high standard of gear. Be prepared to carry a 15 - 25kg backpack. Alternatively, porters can be arranged on request.
Route Overview
Area: Amphitheatre, Mnweni and Cathedral Peak
Distance: 72 km
Days: 5 days / 4 nights
Grade: 5/5
Route Description
Note: The following itinerary should be seen only as a guide, as when hiking in any mountain area, weather and other circumstances can change our daily plans.
For each day we give the following information: (Distance, accumulated ascent, walking time*)
*Walking time includes rests.
Day 1: Sentinel Car Park – Ifidi Pass (13km, 690m, 7h)
We will be dropped at Sentinel Car Park from where we will climb to the top of the Amphitheatre. We can do this by the famous chain ladders, but for those afraid of heights, the route up the Beacon Buttress gully is a less daunting option. Once on top, we will stop for a well-deserved lunch at the top of the Tugela Falls. With a total drop of 614 metres this is the world’s fourth highest waterfall. The view that beholds is certainly one of the most spectacular in Southern Africa. With spirits high, we will be ready to leave civilization behind and head out towards Ifidi Pass, where we will pitch our tents for the night.
Day 2: Ifidi Pass – Fang Pass (13km, 600m, 7h)
For the next two days we will be walking in the Mnweni area: the wildest and most dramatic part of the Drakensberg. We will try to remain as close to the escarpment in order to capture the true magnitude of it. Contrary to what optical illusion may imply, the top of the Drakensberg is not as flat as a table but an undulating sequence of valley and ridges. Three short sharp climbs await us during this day. If time allows we will also visit some of the caves in the area. The well-know mountain feature “Madonna and her Worshipers” is our landmark for our campsite.
Day 3: Fang Pass – Ledger’s Cave (14km, 550m, 7.5h)
If after the last two days you think it can’t get any better, wait until what lies ahead. We will be hike through an area with rugged, spindly peaks and fascinating rock formations: Mnweni Pinnacles, Hanging Valleys, Twelve Apostles, Mnweni Needles, Mponjwane…it goes on and on. We sleep at Ledger’s Cave - a very apt name which literally hangs off the cliffs. Sleep walkers best be zipped-up tight for this night.
Day 4: Ledger’s Cave – Twins Cave (18km, 850m, 8.5h)
This is our longest and toughest day. Up to four ridges will be summited. But before the hard work begins, we will visit another fine cave nearby: Mponjwane Cave, right behind the standalone peak after which it is named. From here, if the weather is clear, we will catch our first glimpse of the Cathedral Peak Range, at which we will finish our hike. We will be hiking around the Saddle, another prominent feature, before arriving at Mlabonja Pass – our exit point off the escarpment. From here it is a short sharp descent down to Twins Cave.
Day 5: Twins Cave – Bell Traverse – Cathedral Peak Hotel (14.5km, 400m, 8h)
The Bell Traverse is certainly the ‘cherry on the top!’ of this hike in the Drakensberg. From the moment you leave Twins cave, a surprise awaits around every corner. This challenging but exciting path reveals itself in parts, but it is almost impossible to guess where next it’s going to turn: around the Mitre, past the Chessmen, behind the Inner and outer Horns, around the Bell and then, before arriving at the foot of the Cathedral Peak, the final daunting challenge is Bugger’s gully. From here it is an easy 8km down to Cathedral Peak hotel.
Cost (based on 4 pax): ZAR 2,900* per person
The price includes:
- Professional mountain guide
- All the food and the cooking gear (pots, stoves and fuel)
- Your hiking permits
* Important note!: This is not a circular route. It is a 180km drive from the end of the hike at the Cathedral Peak area to the start of the hike at the Sentinel Car Park. For this reason, a transfer has to be arranged. This will be planned according to your needs and involves an extra variable cost that has not been included in the price shown above.
We can also arrange accommodation and other activities in the area before and after the hike, at no extra cost.
If you are not a group of 4 contact us and we will give you a customised quote.
