Mont-aux-Sources

Although Mont-aux-Sources is within the Royal Natal National Park which in turn is part of the northern section of the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park in KwaZulu-Natal, it is a destination in its own right. It is the highest range of peaks in the world-renowned Drakensberg Amphitheatre, bordering and extending into the neighbouring country of Lesotho.

Mont-aux-Sources was discovered in 1836 by French missionaries – hence the name. Translated, the name means “mountain of springs”, which is particularly apt since it is the source of the Tugela and the Orange Rivers – the largest in South Africa. It is also home to the second highest waterfall in the world which cascades down 3000m.

The area is mainly all about hiking and climbing and the highest peak at 3282m is formidable to say the least. There are some challenging sections of the climb, including chain ladders, and they should not be tackled by the inexperienced. For the adventurous, however, the climb is incredibly rewarding – the views are spectacular. For the even more adventurous, hike the 60kms from Mont-aux-Sources to Cathedral Peak and experience the full splendour of the Drakensberg wonderland.

There are many accommodation options in the Royal Natal National Park and the nearby Rugged Glen Nature Reserve. The Mahai camp has 120 outstanding camping sites along the Mahai River and Rugged Glen has 20 rustic camp sites. For the more demanding, there is Thendele Camp with 26 self-contained chalets and 2 six-bedroom cottages.

Book at Mahai and Rugged Glen – +27(0)36 438 6310 or Email