When is the best time to visit the Drakensberg, in summer or winter?
The weather in Kwazulu Natal is generally warm throughout the year. The Drakensberg has with minimum temperatures of about 5 degrees in the winter at night with average day temps of 20 degrees. The winter months are drier and therefore a good time to view game because there is no tall grass making it easier to see into the bush. For the lower laying areas the best weather is between April to August which is warm with low humidity as opposed to the summer months which can become very hot between December and March. Watch out for December till early January. All schools in South Africa are on holiday and you may find it difficult if you have not pre-booked accommodation.
Is Malaria a problem?
The Drakensberg has no malaria. Hluhluwe and St Lucia are regarded as a low risk malaria area and it is only in the summer months between November through end March that one should take extra precautions against malaria. We suggest that you consult your general practitioner to prescribe the recommended prophylactics to suit you. Make sure you bring a anti mozi spray or lotion to put on in the evenings when most mosquito activity occurs.
Do I need a four wheel drive vehicle?
The roads from Durban and Johannesburg are exceptional, safe and well maintained. You don't really need a 4x4 unless you are thinking about going to Lesotho or driving specific 4x4 trails.
What clothing should we bring?
Defiantly bring at least one warm jacket like a fleece or wind breaker and a light weight rain coat. Sandals are a good item to have and a good pair of light weight walking shoes ( heavy duty hiking boots are not necessary ). As far as clothing is concerned bring shorts and t-shirts ( South Africa in general is very casual ) and some long trousers and long sleeve light weight shirts for the evenings. Sunglasses and a wide brim hat are especially recommended in the summer. Binoculars are a must and don't forget your camera.
Where is the closest airport for scheduled flights?
Durban or Johannesburg are the closest international airports. The Drakensberg is 4 hours from Johannesburg and 2 hours from Durban. You can hire a car from either of theses airports and enjoy a scenic drive to the mountains.
We have eight days to see the best of Kwazulu - Natal, can you recommend an itinerary for us?
The best aspects of our province have to be the majestic Drakensberg mountains, the magnificent beaches and warm Indian Ocean and the beauty and diversity of the Zululand bushveld and St Lucia lakes. There is also the rich cultural and fascinating history of the Battlefields area of Isandhlwana and Rorke's Drift which is definitely worth a day for history buffs.
Do South Africans like sport?
Yes South Africans are fanatical about most sports see South African Sport article
Who needs to be contacted if you get into trouble in the Drakensberg Mountains?
The Drakensberg Mountain Rescue Unit
Is the Drakensberg a good conference venue?
The Drakensberg and the Natal Midlands offers a wide range of conference venues most also cater for accommodation. See our page on Drakensberg conference venues. See our page on team building in the Drakensberg