Drakensberg Grand Traverse- Dec 2025

by with No Comment Drakensberg

This year’s Drakensberg Grand Traverse started with much trepidation, as we had been experienced torrential rain in the region over the past few weeks. Despite this, seven intrepid hikers lined up to undertake one of the world toughest hikes. We were joined by Ralph, Ruth’s husband (he joined us for the first night) and Lana. I met Lana in the Witsies parking lot and she explained that she had travelled from Spain to complete a Northern Traverse. As it is risky to hike in the Drakensberg alone, I suggested she join my group. We started day 1 as a party of nine! Two hikers in my group had previously suffered from altitude sickness, so we took the first day easy and focused on altitude acclimation. After visiting all the lookout spots and Tugela falls, we made our way to the banks of the Elands River to make camp and make an early starts to summit the first peak of the traverse, Mont-aux-sources, the following morning. It has been a glorious first day.

Distance 9.25km Elevation 597m

Drakensberg Grand Traverse – Day 1

Distance: 16.24 km Elevation Gain: 679 m

We were spoilt with a spectacular sunrise to start the day, but it wasn’t long before the mist rolled in and rain followed. Summiting Mont-aux-Sources in wet, misty conditions became the group’s first real challenge, and an early taste of what lay ahead. On the ascent, hiker Heidi struggled with a headache and fatigue, her mountain legs clearly taking a little longer to kick in. We had to say goodbye to Ralph as he headed down the chain ladders and back to Witsieshoek.

After contouring around Icidi and tackling two substantial climbs, we finally caught sight of our campsite tucked below Madonna Pass. True to Drakensberg form, the weather then shifted dramatically. The clouds lifted, the sun broke through, and we were rewarded with breathtaking views over the Mbundini and Mnweni areas.

Day one covered a moderate distance and was intentionally paced to ease everyone into the traverse. We took plenty of breaks and settled into camp early, allowing the group to adjust to the altitude and the weight of fully loaded packs. Everyone felt the strain of both, and as a chilly wind swept through camp, we turned in early. Fast asleep by sunset. Resting up for the bigger, tougher days still to come.

Drakensberg Grand Traverse- Day 2

16.24km 679m elevation gain

One of the most iconic sunrises in the Drakensberg is from the top of Madonna Pass. It was still dark as we made our way to the top of the pass to watch the sun rise over Madonna and her worshippers. The sky was clear and visibility was perfect. We sat transfixed for what is for most, a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Once we had packed up it was clear that Hiker Heidi felt unwell and wasn’t physically able to continue with the traverse. Her companion Bruno would accompany her down Rockeries pass. I made arrangements for my porter to hike up from Mnweni to meet them. It was also the day that our last-minute addition, Lana, would also be ending her Northern Traverse journey, so she too would be leaving us. After a fond farewell at the top of Rockeries, we made camp at the Senqu River. We spend the afternoon lazing on the grass amongst the wildflower and playing cards and Rummicub.

This would be our last opportunity for relaxation as from this point our days would be long and without respite.

Drakensberg Grand Traverse – Day 3

Distance: 19.62 km Elevation Gain: 859 m

With extra ground to cover, we set off early. Our first stop was Vulture Buttress, where Cape Vultures soared above us, and I managed to call my porter to confirm that Heidi, Bruno, and Lana had safely reached Mnweni Cultural Village.We followed the escarpment towards Ntonjalane Pass, the kilometres steadily wearing on the group.I was grateful to have such a perfect summers day, as I had taken a specific route to be able to capitalise on the views of the Cathedral peak area. Fatigue set in as we climbed Elephant Gully and we experienced a brief hailstorm as we descended.

By the time we made camp at the top of Tseketseke Pass, tired but satisfied, the mountains rewarded us with a truly magnificent sunset. An unforgettable end to a demanding and exciting day.

Drakensberg Grand Traverse- Day 4

15.93km 796m elevation gain

I’ve always said that one day Cleft Peak will be the death of me, and this day was no exception. Having woken up to thick mist and drizzle, our group painstakingly made its way up to the second compulsory summit. I had to describe the view as best I could, and after a hasty summit selfie we made the long descent to organ pipes. Mist can be extremely disorientating, and while hiking over Ndumeni Dome, I took the side route to Rolands’s cave. After a few meters I realised my mistake but something else caught my eye. A botanist friend of mine had asked me to keep an eye out for a rare plant, Guthriea capensis, and on the footpath to Rolands’s cave, I literally found dozens of them.This was our second sighting of the ‘hidden flower’ plant and after marking a waypoint we continued on our way.The views from the top of Ndumeni were underwhelming to say the least, and once we descended into the next valley I suggested we take a mental health break after being out for hours in constant drizzle and fog.

We set up Ruths Durston tent and all managed to all fit inside with just the flysheet. After a warm and cosy lunch break, we continued to Yodlers Valley. About two kilometers before our intended campsite, I decided to call it a day. Chilled and soaked, everyone was grateful to dry off and have an early night.

Drakensberg Grand Traverse – Day 5

Distance: 26 km Elevation gain: 1139 m

Day five greeted us with clear skies and cool air. Sunshine has a way of making even damp socks and wet shoes feel manageable, and we welcomed it wholeheartedly. Recent flash floods in Yodler’s Valley had reshaped the landscape since my last visit in September. Familiar paths were gone and the riverbanks were steep and eroded. The shepherds were still absent from the highlands, we had the entire valley to ourselves, a rare and special tranquillity. Before tackling our first major climb, we spread out our soaked gear and tents on the grass, letting the sun work its magic while we enjoyed a relaxed breakfast surrounded by towering peaks.

This was our longest day by distance, packed with multiple climbs, including the ascent of Champagne Castle, compulsory peak number three on the Grand Traverse. The views from higher up were nothing short of spectacular. Endless ridgelines, deep valleys, and that unmistakable Drakensberg grandeur stretching in every direction.

After a long, steady walk down Lesley’s Valley, we finally reached our campsite. Twelve hours on our feet, tired but satisfied…

Drakensberg Grand Traverse- Day 6

24km 1068m elevation gain

Depending on the duration, a Drakensberg Traverse can be extremely challenging, more leisurely, or anything in-between. It’s a classic build your own adventure hike. A 12-day traverse is more suited if you want to take photos, enjoy the views, take lunchtime swims, and stop to smell the flowers.On day 6 of our traverse, we were under time constraints to reach our resupply point, summit the highest peak of South Africa (compulsory peak number 4) and cover a fair amount of distance. With our goal to reach to top of Langalibalele pass by 3pm, breaks and photos opportunities would be brief.

The route to the summit of Mafadi is a slow steady climb and soon we were literally on top of the world, with incredible 360 views of Lesotho and South Africa. After a few summit selfies we were off again, whizzing past iconic passes such as Judges and Bannerman’s. We stopped at the valley below Langalibalele, and I stationed Ruth at our intended campsite with the backpacks. The rest of us would hike up to the top of the pass and wait for the resupply team.

We arrived at the resupply point, and I was surprised to not find the resupply team. They are usually extremely punctual and reliable. Switching on my phone I received a message that one of the group had slipped in a river and was injured, luckily not too seriously and they arrived within an hour or two. The resupply packages seemed alarmingly heavy, even though we had packed them ourselves, and we knew that being back to our starting pack weight, footsore and pack weary would be challenging.

Drakensberg Grand Traverse

Day 7-Distance 11.85km elevation gain 693m

Day 8-Distance 23km elevation gain 683m

Day 7

With our packs back to their starting weight, we set off. Our first challenge was Mt Durnford, which we unanimously decided was the hardest climb of the traverse.

As the day progressed, mist rolled in and light rain followed, gradually reducing visibility. I decided to call it a day and not summit Giants Castle in low visibility weather. With Giants Castle looming above us in the clouds, we set up camp. The weather showed no sign of improving, so summiting the 5th compulsory peak would have to wait for the following morning.

The wind howled around the tents and the drizzle continued into the evening. Ruth was feeling unwell, and reaching camp early was welcome.

Day 8

We woke to an icy wind and thick cloud pressing against the tents. With the conditions still harsh, Ruth made the sensible decision to stay behind and conserve her strength.

The return trip to the summit of Giants Castle took close to three hours and was brutal. We moved slowly through thick fog and steady rain, often walking right along the edge of the escarpment with very little visibility. 

Reaching the summit was a huge relief, knowing the worst was behind us. Soon after, the weather turned. The sun finally broke through, lifting spirits as we broke camp and headed inland toward Lesotho. A clear, sunny day was a welcome change. We slept that night in an abandoned kraal, the flattest campsite so far, and watched a beautiful sunset before finally getting some proper rest.

Drakensberg Grand Traverse- Day 9

Distance 25km vertical gain 1100m

We woke at first light at the abandoned homestead and made our way down into the valley, heading toward Thabana Ntlenyana. The day was warm and breezy, but it was going to be a demanding one with 25km and 1 100 m of climbing to get done.Thabana Ntlenyana rises to 3 482m, and the climb took us six long hours.At the summit, Ruth told me she was not feeling well. She was clearly struggling, with a severe headache and nausea brought on by altitude sickness.Even I had begun to feel the dull nausea of hunger that 10 days of trail snacks could no longer silence.

She kept moving, step by step, with a quiet determination.As we descended, it became clear her condition was worsening, and I’d made the call to divert to a pastor friend of mine near Sani Pass. Once again, Lesotho showed us its heart. The Basotho people have an unmatched generosity. The pastor welcomed us, offering a small bungalow, a hot shower, and food.Pastor Siphiwe is an extraordinary man, dedicating his life to educating traditional herders. By teaching them to read and write, he helps them create brighter futures. He cooked us lasagna and traditional Lesotho bread, a simple meal that felt like a gift beyond measure. After days of cold, rain, and being unable to wash properly, the hot shower was overwhelming in the best possible way. I washed my clothes in a basin, feeling the dust of the trail float away.

After Ruth had eaten and settled into bed, I hoped the night would bring relief and she would be well enough to continue in the morning. Lying there, clean and well fed, I felt immense gratitude. For Ruth’s strength, for the kindness of friends who felt like family, and for this beautiful country that continues to remind me that in the mountains we carry each other.

Drakenberg Grand Traverse

Day 10

Distance 20km elevation gain 825m

Ruth woke feeling remarkably better. I was relieved, as it really would have been a shame for her to withdraw so close to the end.We left the church with full bellies and very happy hearts, after a hearty breakfast. Getting back onto the trail took some effort, but spirits were high, and the group agreed they’d happily accept another “unscheduled rest day” if one came with food like that.Once moving, we covered ground quickly. By early afternoon the sky had other ideas, piling up dark clouds and delivering not one but two impressive electrical storms.

Once calm had returned, we called it a day and camped in the valley before the Mahai River, short of our original plan.

All in all, a pretty good day.

Drakensberg Grand Traverse

Day 11

Distance 20km elevation gain 906m

With the finish line finally in sight, excitement ran high despite two big climbs still standing between us and the finish line. The last hurdle would be up Walker’s Peak and down Isicatula pass.

From the top of Walkers peak, the familiar vastness of Lesotho stretched out in every direction. The wind however was fierce and unrelenting, and the pass was as treacherous as ever.The walk along the valley towards our campsite felt surreal after the choas of the peak. The group confessed to silently praying to get down to the valley safely.

Arriving at out final campsite, the Drakenberg had one last surprise waiting for us. Unbeknownst to us, we had pitched our tents right in the dining hall of a very large, very committed herd of cattle. At first there was a distant rumble. Then chaos. A full-on stampede of cows, calves, and several enormous bulls thundered through our campsite as if summoned by a dinner bell we didn’t know we’d rung.

Tshengi and I peeked out of the tent to find we were completely surrounded by several bulls easily weighing half a ton, clearly in mating season, and not in the mood for hikers. We froze, unsure whether to make a run for it or quietly zip ourselves back into our nylon cocoon and hope for the best.Eventually at sunset, the herd decided they’d had enough of us and wandered off back to their kraal, leaving behind two people who may never fully emotionally recover. I now have very real cow PTSD.

That night, with a mere 14km remaining to the Bushman’s nek border post, we enjoyed our final evening. Conversation turned to home. Hot showers, clean clothes, and loved ones, while a part of us was heartsore to be leaving the mountains.

Day 12

When it’s all over, there is no dramatic finish.

Just the sense that something heavy (literally and figurative), has been carried a great distance, and finally set down. Facing adversity asks a lot but gives more back.Doing something genuinely hard leaves a mark. Invisible to outsiders, it quietly reshapes your inner word. Stripped of comfort and distraction, you learn what you can tolerate, where your edges are, and how much farther they extend than you once thought possible.From the outside, it may look like a hike completed, but the real change is harder to explain. You come back steadier, less hurried, carrying a calm confidence and peace. You know, in your bones, what you are capable of.

Because this, in its simplest form, is where life makes sense.

Effort with purpose, presence without distraction, and the quiet satisfaction of moving through the world one step at a time.

Interview with Author Malcolm Pearse

by with No Comment Drakensberg

Coming soon….

Northern Traverse and Mafadi Summit

by with No Comment Drakensberg
120km 6000m elevation 
 
When Julia, an accomplished mountaineer from Dubai, contacted me, asking if it was possible to do a Northern Traverse and summit Mafadi in one trip I jumped at the opportunity to put the idea into action. A fast packing tailor made adventure piqued my interest and Julia was delighted to be able to tick off two bucket list hikes in one go.
 
The Drakenberg threw everything it had at us, from 70km per hour winds, ice rain, electrical storms, hail, mist and sub zero temperatures. We were forced into radical reroutes, abandoning planned paths and embracing improvisation at every turn.
 
This was no ordinary hike. It was a test of our endurance, a dance with the elements, and an unforgettable adventure. It offered moments of sublime beauty, and the quiet companionship that grows when two adventurers face the mountains together.
 
Day 1 – Chain Ladders to Icidi Valley
 
As we reached the chain ladders, the atmosphere of excitement was palpable. A journey of 120km across the spine of the dragon lay ahead. Tugela Falls which in summer is a thunderous wall of water, was now little more than a silver thread.
 
That night we camped in Icidi Valley. The cold was sharp, seeping through every layer, and snow still covered the peaks.
 
Day 2 – Icidi Valley to Rockeries Pass camping at the source of the Orange River.
 
Climbing out of Icidi Valley, our bodies protested the weight of our packs and the ascent to Mbudini was relentless. When we reached Madonna and her Worshipers, everything shifted. The view was as always vast and humbling.
 
That evening, we set camp near the source of the Orange River. The mountain felt untouched, remote, and utterly still. Around us, the mountains stretched empty, as the Basotho shepards had not yet returned to the Northern Berg.
 
Day 3 – Along the Escarpment to Organ Pipes Pass
 
We followed the escarpment in the morning, with every turn revealed another breathtaking view. Above Nguza Pass, vultures circled despite the strong wind.
 
We covered nearly 30 kilometers and climbed around 1,500 meters that day. 
We finally set up camp just below organ pipes pass. Excited to contemplate what the next day would bring.
 
Day Four — Organ Pipes to Nkosazana Cave
 
We rose to a chilly morning, and began the ascent past Organ Pipes, Thuthumi Pass and skirting over Ndumeni Dome. The early morning views from the top of the dome are breathtaking. The vastness of Yodlers Valley unfolded below us, and some Shepards appeared to have returned to their homesteads. The familiar sound of bells and sheep rang through the valley. We paused at the cascades, stripping down to plunge into the icy water, laughing through chattering teeth. It felt like we washing away the fatigue of the past days.
 
But the climb back to the escarpment was unforgiving. The sky darkened and it soon turned to heavy rain. Lightning cracked open the heavens above us and we took shelter, waiting for the lightning to pass. When the storm finally eased, we pushed on through the mist.
 
That’s when they appeared. Three Basotho herders on horseback, wrapped in heavy blankets. Behind them were at least 15 horses and a pack of dogs. For a moment it felt as if we had stepped back in time, wandering into another world.
 
By late afternoon, drenched and weary, we sought shelter in Nkosazana Cave. The place reeked of damp, and is more of a shepherds refuge more than a hikers haven. Yet, as the storm continued outside, the cave became our sanctuary.
 
Day 5 – Mafadi Summit
 
Today was the big day and our chance to stand on Mafadi, the highest peak in South Africa. We started early, making our way toward Champagne Castle. The wind was already strong, and as we climbed higher it only gathered strength. By the time we reached the ridge it was gale force, 70km per hour, with gusts that could easily knock us off our feet. Walking became a struggle, sometimes we were forced to brace ourselves against the mountain just to stay upright. Attempting the ridge was impossible, so we dropped down into Leslie’s Valley to find shelter.
 
Even there the wind chased us, funnelling through the valley with surprising power. For a moment it seemed the mission might end here, with Mafadi still out of reach. I sent a satellite message to my partner, asking for an updated weather forecast. The report came back: gusts of 40–70km/h for the next 24 hours. Risky—but possible. If the gusts came in waves, there would be calmer moments when we could move.
 
So we went for it. The ascent was slow, punctuated by frequent breaks whenever the wind became too much. Each pause felt like a chance to reset and wait for the mountain to grant us another window. Step by step, we worked our way up.
 
Finally, we stood on Mafadi’s summit. It was a huge relief and a proud moment—worth every effort. But the sky was shifting fast. Cirrocumulus clouds, rippled like fish scales, hinted at incoming weather. A sudden warm wind confirmed it. Snow was on the way.
 
Instead of descending Bannerman’s as planned, we chose Judge’s Pass, heading for Bannerman Hut and then Giants Castle Camp. On the way down, rain arrived, mixed with ice crystals that stung our faces. By the time we reached camp, we were soaked but safe.
 
It was a day of testing conditions, of winds strong enough to stop us in our tracks, but in the end the risks had been worth it and Mafadi was ours.

Drakensberg Grand Traverse- Dec 2024

by with No Comment Drakensberg

Day 1

On the 6th of December 2024, four intrepid hikers (Brenda, Tshengi, Evadnee, and Bernard) set out to conquer the entire length of the Drakensberg Mountain range. Our goal was to complete the journey in 12 days with a resupply halfway. In the history of the Grand Traverse, I doubt one could have asked for better weather, as we had perfect sunshine days and exquisite clear views, with the exception of one afternoon of rain. Our goal was to tag the 6 FKT peaks along the way and complete a Grand Traverse in the stricter sense. Each day was a marvel to the senses.

The fields were filled with wildflowers, newborn lambs, jovial herdsmen, and the bluest skies. I’m incredibly proud of these two ladies, and what epic journey would be complete without the sibling I never asked for, St Bernard?

Distance 23km Elevations gain 1400m

Day 2

Most Grand Traverses cut across the interior from Mont-aux-sources to Mweni, but I decided to do a Northern/ full Grand Traverse hybrid and follow the escarpment to allow the group to experience the best of both routes. Despite a full first day, the group was eager to wake up early to witness sunrise at the top of Madonna Pass. The rest of the day was just spectacular, with views of Mbuduni Abbey, Pins and the Mweni area. I’d been hoping the good weather would hold so we could enjoy this section of the traverse and so far, my luck was holding.

Distance 18km Elevations gain 800m

Day 3

One thing I didn’t expect on this traverse is how hot it would be. Unseasonably clear skies led to blisteringly hot days with extreme UV. We took every opportunity to swim if we could find water deep enough, which during this drought period was also challenging. Day 2 was really tough, as our feet started to bear the load of carrying a traverse worth of food and equipment. Out campsite just above Nguze Pass was blissfully close to the river and deep enough that we could bath properly. Day 3 started with a steep climb up the Mlamhonjwa Buttress and continued to follow the Northern Traverse route south. We experienced clear blue skies and breathtaking views, as the Cathedral peak area drew closer.

Distance 17km Elevations gain 900m

Day 4

As Mweni faded from view, we summited our second peak of the Drakensberg Grand Traverse, Cleft Peak. The last time I summited this peak, it was so misty I didn’t realise we were on top until we saw the cairn. We followed the lower route around Didima Dome via Thuthumi pass, which was spectacular, and eventually made camp in the Yoddlers cascades valley. Everyone was by this point feeling rather foot sore, and a cold soak that evening in the river definitely helped to alleviate some of the suffering.

Distance: 18km Elevation gain: 1020m

Day 5

After spending the night at Yodlers Cascades, we started bright and early for the climb up to U-bend. From there, we had a decent 10km stretch along the ridge where we walked on a path and didn’t have too much elevation change. It felt good to stretch our legs and cover some distance effortlessly. Peak number 3, Champagne Castle, was on the itinerary, and as we made our way up to the summit, we were joined by a herder and his dogs. Tsengi translated his story for us, the gist of which was that he lived alone and wanted us to procure him a wife. It was a huge blessing to have T with us to be able to communicate in Sotho, and she was able to answer all of his questions about our journey. We headed down to Leslie’s valley in the afternoon with ominous rain clouds gathering, and managed to set up our tents before the first drops fell.

Day 6

Day 6 was our longest day in terms of distance and elevation. The climb from Leslie’s valley to Mafadi is far gentler from the northern approach than the southern, and before we knew it, we had summited peak number 4, Mafadi, which is also the highest peak of South Africa. I’ve summited this peak more times than I can remember, and the rock cairn marking the peak is now like returning to an old familiar friend. Popple Peak and Senquebethu Peak still had to be climbed before we made our way down to the top of Langalibalele Pass, which was the point of our resupply. Everyone was excited to unwrap the treats and additional food we had packed into our resupply, but we were less excited to be back to maximum pack weight again. After a quick catch up, the porters headed down and we set up camp to enjoy the fruits of our labours.

Distance: 22km Elevation gain: 1170m

Day 7

We were now officially halfway through the grand traverse! It’s a point where one is not close enough to the end to get your second wind, and systemic fatigue starts to set in. At this stage of the traverse, the landscape changes. Moving south away from the dramatic peaks of the north, the landscape became more open and pastoral, and we began to encounter many more of the traditional Basotho homesteads. It was magical to hike amongst the new lambs and the sounds of the goats’ bells. Dogs barked their warning as we passed, and curious eyes followed our journey. With our now full backpacks, we crawled up Mt Dunford and battled to summit our fifth peak, Giants Castle. We gratefully arrived at our camp just below The Tent and were able to bathe and do a bit of laundry. As one cannot use any kind of soap or laundry detergent in the wilderness, it’s more akin to redistributing the dirt and odours, but gives one the satisfaction that you tried.

Distance: 16km Elevation gain: 1096m

Day 8

The terrain on Day 8 still had plenty of big climbs, but interspersed were long stretches of pastoral land. One of our team members had a nasty fall and mildly sprained her hand, but we counted ourselves lucky that this was the first time anyone in the group had sustained any kind of injury. Water became scarcer and was often badly polluted with a thick brown algae, which I had never encountered before. We refrained from drinking this water and held out for better opportunities. Our interactions with the Basotho herdsmen were now constant, and we exchanged cigarettes for enormous smiles. When we set up camp a few kilometres from Thabana Ntlenyana, we had seven herders mesmerised by our gear and tents. They eagerly watched us set up camp and asked plenty of questions about how we survived with such thin clothing and meagre food supplies. A new addition to the Lesotho landscape was the frequency of portable wind-up radios, a valuable lifeline between the herders and the outside world. I’m sure someone had imported them en masse, and they were now cheaply available to the rural community. Everyone was very excited to be summiting the highest peak of Southern Africa the next day and possibly stopping at Sani Pass backpackers for a pizza.

Distance: 19km Elevation gain: 900m

Day 9

Rain had been forecast, so we made an early start, hoping not to have to summit Thabana Ntlenyana in rain and howling wind. Fortunately, there was no sign of rain as we neared the peak, but winds of about 70km per hour made hiking slow, and we were occasionally blown over. It was too dangerous for a summit selfie, so we had to make do sheltering against some rocks. The water quality continued to be poor, and when we set up camp for the night at Sani Flats, we had to boil water to make it potable. We collectively decided not to stop at Sani backpackers as the majority felt it would break our rhythm and make the traverse feel less authentic. With just 2.5 days remaining, it finally started feeling like the home stretch.

Distance: 21km Elevation gain: 900m

Day 10

Just as I was starting to think we had carried rain gear across an entire mountain range for nothing, the rain finally came. Two intense downpours with hail had us sheltering for cover and waiting for the storm to pass. We set up camp close to the Rhino and experienced a downpour that lasted 2 hours. It felt wonderfully cosy to be snug in a sleeping bag while the rain pelted down. The mountains were misty and mysterious and looked more like the landscape I was familiar with in summer months.

Distance: 17km Elevation gain: 722m

Day 11 

This was the last full day of the Grand Traverse and it was a joyous moment when we reached the top of Ngwangwane and there were officially no more hills to climb! From here you have to descend a short gully, which is arguably the only really ‘technical’ section of the traverse and make your way down to Thamathu valley. The views of Garden Castle were absolutely spectacular as one was able to see the Giants Castle trail winding far below in the valley. Our final campsite was voted a 10/10. Huge pools for an afternoon swim and plenty of flat ground for a final game of Rummicup. Feeling were mixed as hikers were sad to be ending the journey, but simultaneously looking forward to returning home to loved ones. Distance:

 17km Elevation gain: 722m

Final Day- Day 12 

Thamathu Pass is arguably the easiest pass in the Drakensberg. A gentle path that meanders down to the Bushman’s Nek border post guides us to the finish line. Being one of only two pedestrian borders in Southern Africa, we casually amble through the no man’s land between two countries, and the reality that our journey has ended dawns on us. After almost two weeks of leading a nomadic simple life, re-entry into society is a shock to the senses. What stands out most on this traverse was the harmony and camaraderie that our small group attained. A blend of various ages, genders and cultures has merged seamlessly into an unforgettable experience. Despite its challenges, the 12 day hike has formed an unbreakable bond of shared adversity and inside jokes. I’m delighted that everyone in the group completed the challenge and deeply honoured to be able to turn the dreams of the participants into reality. Our journey back to Witsieshoek was a culinary tour of the Drakensberg as we stopped regularly to delight in beverages and meals one normally takes for granted. I can’t help but wonder what adventures my next Grand Traverse will hold 😉