Sentinel-Tugela Overnight Hike

We start this adventure from the Sentinel car park which offers the least strenuous route to the escarpment of the Berg. Early on we stand below the towering Sentinel Peak which, at 3166m, is definitely one of the most powerful features of the northern Drakensberg. Sentinel summit is the destination of climbers, but for those that go by foot it's a gateway to Mont-Aux Sources, the grand wall of the amphitheater, and the Tugela Falls - with undoubtedly one of the most spectacular views in southern Africa! 

 

Although considered an easy ascent, this is still the higher 'berg, and many ill-equipped hikers have lost their lives simply because they were not prepared for mountain weather. Here storms can whip up without warning at any time of the year. In a blizzard, without proper equipment and knowledge, one can quickly get lost. But fear not for hunkering down in the snow with inadequate gear is not on our itinerary! We always ensure that we are fully equipped before heading out on any mountain adventure.

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We prefer to do this as a two-day, weekend adventure, tenting near the top of the Tugela Falls in order to experience the glorious sunrise over the Amphitheater. For fitter and more adventurous spirits there are also some major peaks in the area. Mont-Aux-Sources stands at 3278 masl and Mount Amery at 3143 masl, so if mountain running and "peak bagging" are on your agenda let us know!

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Adventure Stats

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Distance: 8km one way (Sentinel car park to Tugela Falls)

Est time: 2-5 hours depending on your objective

Best time of year: All year round

Grade: Easy, with some exposure on the chain ladders. For children or parties not comfortable ascending the ladders we are happy to guide an alternative route to the escarpment and top of the Tugela Falls.

Cost: From R1000 pp

Highlight: Standing on top of the world's second highest waterfall and awaking to the magnificent cloudscape below!