Inkosana Lodge and Trekking – Drakensberg

Situated in the Central Berg, close to Cathedral Peak and Cathkin

Mar 7, 2010 John Harman

Aloes in Winter at Inkosana - Inkosana
Aloes in Winter at Inkosana - Inkosana
On the border between Lesotho and South Africa, the Drakensberg range stretches up over 3000m into the African sky.

The Berg, as it commonly known, is renowned for its picture perfect scenery, pristine nature and is extremely accessible for hiking and climbing. There are routes to cater for those looking for a half an hour stroll to multi day treks for the professionals only. Inkosana Lodge, which has been around for more than twenty years is located in the Central Berg, and makes an ideal base camp for visitors looking to explore this fabulous region. Owner run, visitors can get expert advice and guides on all of the local walks and climbs, and for a myriad of other activities in the region.

Inkosana Lodge

Set amongst the mountains of the Little Berg, and with magnificent views of Cathedral Peak and Cathkin peak, the local indigenous gardens surrounding Inkosana are perfect for less active visitors who wish to stay closer to home. Add to that a beautiful swimming dam, a herb garden and a yellowwood walk all tucked away on the property, visitors can keep busy and active without leaving the lodge. A variety of accommodation options are available, ranging from a campsite with self catering kitchen facilities and shared ablutions, to dorm rooms and en suite doubles and rondavels.

For visitors who don’t wish to self cater, the lodge does offer extremely reasonable breakfasts and dinners, which are served just off the enormous communal lounge, which is fully equipped for when the weather sets in. The lodge offers a laundry service as well as a shuttle service to several walks in the area.

Activities in the Central Berg area.

Hiking and climbing are the main attractions in the area. A myriad of day walks are on offer, including walks to Nandi Falls, Sterkhorn Peak and Blind Man’s Corner, or go explore the bushman painting in the battle, Eland and Zulu Caves. Overnight hikers can make trips to Ship’s Prow Pass or Mafadi, the highest peak in Africa.

Various others sections of the Berg are within easy driving distance for visitors to explore. These include Giants Castle, Cathedral Peak, the Royal Natal National Park, as well as various Anglo Boer war battlefield sites. Various operators offer river rafting, trout fishing horse riding and mountain biking in the area. The world renowned Drakensberg Boy’s Choir are also in the area, and often have public shows.

Important Information

Never go walking in the Berg without telling someone where you are going. Additionally, hikers need to ensure that they have emergency water and rations, and wet weather gear. The weather can and does change suddenly, particularly in summer, when afternoon storms are common.

Copyright John Harman. Contact the author to obtain permission for republication.

  • Aloes in Winter at Inkosana - Inkosana

    Aloes in Winter at Inkosana - Inkosana

  • View of the Central Berg - Inkosana

    View of the Central Berg - Inkosana

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