Drakensberg, Lesotho and Addo - South Duration7 Days
Embarking from Durban, we traverse Lesotho's rugged mountains on a thrilling pony trek, then immerse ourselves in the wild heart of Addo Elephant National Park's safari, before concluding our captivating journey in Port Elizabeth.
- Crew2 Crew
- Max Passengers 12 Passengers Max
- Vehicle 12 Seater Vehicle
- Duration7 Days and 6 Nights
- From / ToDurban to Gqeberha (PE)
- Meals6 Breakfast 6 Lunch 6 Dinner
- Countries Drakensberg, Lesotho and Addo – South
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Overview
Picture this: A majestic landscape known to the world as Ukuhlamba Drakensberg Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stretches across the entire Kwazulu-Natal province. It’s an emblem of two cultures – the Zulu, who aptly named it uKhahlamba, or ‘barrier of spears,’ and the Afrikaans, who christened it Drakensberge, the ‘dragon mountains.’ These ancient, sentinel peaks will cradle us in their shadows as we embark on an odyssey from Durban to Port Elizabeth.
Our journey first takes us to Lesotho’s craggy expanses, a land revered for pony trekking. Later, we delve into the wild heart of the Addo Elephant National Park for a breathtaking encounter with its revered elephant inhabitants.
From Durban, a vibrant port city, we weave our way to the dramatic landscapes of the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park, pausing en route to marvel at the Howick Falls and reflect at the poignant site where the nation’s beloved son, Nelson Mandela, was captured. We’ll spend a couple of nights here, hiking its labyrinthine trails and basking in the sheer grandeur of nature.
Our journey then unfurls towards the towering cliffs of the Golden Gate National Park. We ascend into Lesotho, drawing in the fresh mountain air as we trek to our lofty overnight lodgings. Immersed in this serene setting, we’ll visit a local village to catch a glimpse of the community’s life rhythms.
As we descend back to South Africa, our compass points towards the Great Karoo, the vibrant heart of rural South Africa. This vast expanse is a stark contrast to the mountain ranges we’ve left behind. We’ll then soak in the panoramic view of the town of Graaff Reinet from the Valley of Desolation as we revel in an enchanting sundown session.
Our journey re-aligns towards the coast, journeying through the expansive plains of the Karoo and into the Addo National Park’s wild embrace. As we settle into the Addo region, an afternoon safari drive awaits in our Nomad truck, promising encounters with Addo’s famous elephants and diverse wildlife.
The grand finale of our South African escapade unfolds in the vibrant city of Port Elizabeth, bringing our extraordinary journey through these diverse landscapes to a close.
Please note: This itinerary is flexible and can be changed without notice. A detailed, up-to-date dossier itinerary is available to download.
Day 1 – Kwa Zulu Natal Coast – UKhahlamba Drakensberg Park
Running the length of the Kwazulu-Natal province, the Ukuhlamba Drakensberg Park is a UNESCO recognised world heritage site. Whether you go by the Zulu name uKhahlamba, meaning ‘barrier of spears’, or the Afrikaans name Drakensberge, meaning ‘dragon mountains’, these towering mountains will be our backdrop for the next two nights. On our way we make a short stop to view the scenic Howick Falls and a visit to the nearby site that marked the capture of South Africa’s most famous man, Nelson Mandela.
Day 2 – UKhahlamba Drakensberg Park
We set out this morning for a lengthy hike. While we encourage everyone to make the most of the day in mountains, we may offer separate options depending on the activity level of the group. With a number of trails available we can ensure that we cater to every need, the most important aim is to ensure everyone enjoys this mountain paradise at their own pace.
Day 3 – Lesotho
Our journey today begins with a mountain pass as our route winds its way through the magnificent cliffs off the Golden Gate National Park before we enter Lesotho in the afternoon, we pass the capital city of Maseru as continue the climb to our base high amongst the mountain peaks.
Day 4 – Lesotho
The clean air of the mountains accompanies us this morning as we explore the surrounding area offers a unique and adventurous landscape to explore on foot and we will set out on the trail which is a couple of hours.
Day 5 – South Africa – Graaff Reinet
Returning to South Africa, we descend the mountains and take aim across the Great Karoo. The semi-arid Karoo represents the heartland of rural South Africa and presents a stark contrast to the mountains we leave behind. Our overnight stop is set in the historic town of Graaff-Reinet, the fourth oldest town in the country. We cross the mighty Orange (Gariep) River today as we journey through the vast countryside of the Karoo.
Day 6 – Gqeberha (Gateway to Addo Elephant National Park)
This morning you will have the opportunity to join a sunrise excursion to the Valley of Desolation. This unique valley offers a panoramic view over the town and the wide open plains stretching out below. Setting course for the coast once again, we pass through the open plains of the Karoo and head to the famous Addo Elephant National Park where we will enjoy a half day game drive in our Nomad truck, in search of the famous elephants that call Addo home. Our overnight accommodation is in the heart of Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth).
Day 7 – Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)
This morning, after breakfast your tour comes to an end. If you wish to extend your tour to Cape Town, please chat to your agent, Nomad or your crew for the options available.
- Crew3 Crew
- Max Passengers 12 Passengers Max
- Vehicle 12 Seater Vehicle
- Duration7 Days and 6 Nights
- From / ToDurban to Port Elizabeth
- Meals6 Breakfast 5 Lunch 6 Dinner
- Countries South Africa, Lesotho
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November
Pre & Post Tour
Pre & Post Tour Accommodation
Nomad can book accommodation before and after your tour.
Pre Tour Accommodation - Durban
Airport Transfer Available Garden Court South Beach – Durban
Situated in the warm subtropical city of Durban, on the lush coastline of KwaZulu-Natal, Garden Court South Beach is the ideal home away from home for our travellers. The hotel lies within easy reach of Durban’s popular South Beach, and provides an ideal springboard from which to explore Durban and… … Read More
Post Tour Accommodation - Gqeberha (PE)
Airport Transfer Available Garden Court Kings Beach – Gqeberha
Kings Beach Garden Court Hotel in Port Elizabeth is centrally located and enjoys sweeping views of Algoa Bay. The hotel is within walking distance to the beach, shops, Boardwalk, restaurants and other attractions. Rooms are clean and comfortable with modern bathrooms, air-conditioning, tea and coffee facilities and complimentary wifi. From… … Read More