Rhino Peak – Southern Drakensberg

Description

Tour Details:

About the Drakensberg/Maluti

One of the most interesting facts about the Drakensberg/Maluti is that it spreads across two Southern African countries-namely South Africa and Lesotho. Home to Southern Africa’s highest peak- Thabana Ntlenyana (Maluti) stands at the height of 3482 meters above sea level.  The Drakensberg escarpment stretches for over 1000 kilometres from the Eastern Cape Provinces in the South to the Free State in the North, with Kwazulu Natal in the middle.  It forms the border between Lesotho and the Eastern Cape and the border between Lesotho and KZN. Thereafter it forms the border between KZN and the Free-State.

Exploring this mountain range is an epic adventure for those interested in taking on Southern Africa’s Highest mountain range. You will be exposed to peaks and valleys that you will never find anywhere else in the region. Tugela Falls (world’s second highest waterfall) originates from one of the notable peaks of this range- Mount Aux-Sources.

The Drakensberg can be climbed through various routes and each route gives a climber a different perspective of this diverse mountain range.

Rhino Peak:

Rhino Peak is regarded by some as the icon of the southern Drakensberg. Shaped like a rhino horn, the peak is free-standing, dramatic looking, and often climbed.

Itinerary

Day 1

Depart Johannesburg no later than 06H00 for the Drakensberg(Kwazulu Natal).

Upon arrival at the Ezemvelo Garden Castle Office – check in and head to Pillar Cave.

The evening will be spent at the Pillar Cave.

Day 2

After a quick breakfast, head towards Rhino Peak summit via Mashai Pass.  This is a relatively easy pass to ascend, only about 4km from the cave to the top of the pass but 900m of vertical climbing. Near the top of the pass you will enjoy the sight of the unforgettable Mashai Falls.

A quick 2km walk and another gradual 100 metres of climbing will see us standing on the top of Rhino Peak for lunch. You will be rewarded with magnificent views of the clouds swirling around us.

After lunch and resting at the summit make our way back to the Ezemvelo Garden Castle Office.

Day 3

Check-in at the lodge

Dates

• 23 – 25 April 2021

Includes:

• Bed and Breakfast
• Meals
• Transport from Johannesburg
• Lunch on the mountain
• Mountain Guide fees
• Entrance fees

Excludes:

• Beverages- alcoholic and non-alcoholic
• Any items of a personal nature

Clients travelling alone may be required to share a chalet. Otherwise, if you prefer single person allocation you are required to inform us when making a booking so that you can be informed of the extra per person charge for accommodation.

Recommended Gear

The weather in the mountains changes very often. In fact, you could move from misty to sunny, rainy, windy and then winter within a space of an hour. This makes your choice of clothing and gear very important.

• 65-75 Liter Backpack;
• Sleeping bag and mat;
• Dry season clothing- breathable or cotton T-shirt, comfortable tracksuit pants, hiking pants or tights for females.
• Suitable walking/hiking footwear (running shoes are a perfect alternative);
• Long-sleeved protective clothing/jacket;
• Sunglasses;
• Rain wear or waterproof ponchos;
• Hat/cap;
• Sunscreen;
• Camera;
• At least two liters of water per person (water bottles to be refilled at the way);
• Electrolytes tabs for energy;
• Favorite snacks