Drakensberg Northern Traverse
Individualised - Your way!

The Drakensberg Northern Traverse is not just a hike - it’s a passage through some of South Africa’s most awe-inspiring wilderness. Towering basalt cliffs, sweeping escarpment views, and incredible Lesotho valleys set the stage for a journey that’s as personal as it is epic.

 

With Mountain Abandon, your traverse is never one-size-fits-all. Whether you’re drawn to the classic 5-day route or a fast, minimalist push where we cover even more distance, we tailor the experience to your rhythm and ambitions. Want to sleep under the stars in a tent or tuck into a wind-carved cave? We’ll make it happen. Every detail, from gear to pacing, is shaped around your preferences and goals.

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The real magic of the traverse lies beyond the scenery though. As you move through vast, silent landscapes and navigate the raw edges of your comfort zone, something shifts. You begin to shed distraction, tune into your body, and reconnect with your inner compass. The mountains don’t just challenge you, they change you. And while the views will stay etched in memory, it’s the transformation you undergo that will truly stay with you.

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Adventure Stats

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Distance: 60 - 100km

Elevation gain: 3000 - 5000m

Highest Point: 3277m asl - Cleft Peak & 3377m - Champagne Castle asl (Extended Northern Traverse)

Est time: 2 - 6 Days (depending on your objective)

Best time of year: All year round. The stable winter conditions might make for faster moving while the wetter summer conditions makes for a special and scenic experience with gushing rivers and beautiful wild flowers. 

Grade: Strenuous with mild exposure.

Cost: Starting from R12 000 pp - Contact us for a group specific quote.

Highlights: Where to start, apart from all the "scenic" points and peaks listed above, the biggest highlight is most certainly the personal growth and transformation that you will experience while out in the mountains.