It was mid February, and we were looking for a weekend getaway not too far from our current base. Somewhere where we could down tools, put our feet up and relax, but with the option of doing something if we were so inclined.
Someone mentioned the Southern Drakensberg. A quick online investigation confirmed that it looked like our kind of place, so we organized our accommodation*, and off we headed towards the Underberg/Himeville area.
The scenery on our 1,5hr road trip did not disappoint.
The Southern Drakensberg around Underberg and Himeville in KwaZulu-Natal has soaring mountain ranges, crystal-clear rivers, waterfalls and dams, and rolling farm lands all sometimes rolled into a single glance out the car window.
It’s not difficult to appreciate why this area is one of South Africa’s most spectacular natural regions.
And while our mission was more chill than thrill, we soon found out that there are a wide range of activities one can partake in once you are in the area.
Here are a few that are worth looking at.
Adventures on your Doorstep
Take a Drive up Sani Pass
If you’ve ever dreamed of a thrilling mountain drive, then tackling the Sani Pass should be a bucket-list experience. This iconic route climbs from Himeville into Lesotho, offering jaw-dropping viewpoints at every hairpin bend.
A high-clearance 4×4 vehicle and passport are essentials if you plan to cross the border into Lesotho itself.
But even if you don’t have either of those, a drive up to the border post at the bottom of the pass is well worth it just to appreciate the majesty of the Drakensberg.
Hiking & Nature Walks
This region is a hiker’s paradise. From easy riverside strolls to challenging mountain routes:
Some of these trails are well known, while others are more “local”. For example, the farm we were staying on had 20km of trails laid out around the farm. And while the topography in the area cannot be described as flat, these trails were ideal for a gentle rolling meander in the foothills of the Drakensberg.
There are many well known trails in the area. Here are a few of them:
Garden Castle Nature Reserve – scenic trails through sandstone valleys and eucalyptus woodlands.
Pholela River Walks and Three Pools Hike – take a refreshing dip in deep pools surrounded by waterfalls.
Bushman’s Nek & Rhino Peak Trails – for more experienced hikers, climb toward Lesotho for unforgettable views.
Whichever you choose to do, bring good hiking shoes and plenty of water (and rain jacket) because weather conditions can change (very) quickly in the area.
Outdoor Sports & Wildlife
A Fly Fishing & Other Water Adventures
Underberg and Himeville are among South Africa’s top fly-fishing destinations, with more than 160 km of river frontage and dozens of trout filled dams .
With that many options, it’s easy to cater for the angler seeking solitude or a family looking for a relaxing day on the water.
And of course those same waterways and dams provide great opportunities for swimming, tubing and canoeing.
Birdwatching & Nature Reserves
The Drakensberg foothills teem with birdlife and wildlife. Keep an eye out for Cranes, Drakensberg Siskins, Rockjumpers and Vultures soaring overhead. Nearby protected areas like Coleford Nature Reserve add to the diversity of habitats worth exploring on foot or by bike.
And if you are an avid birder, it’s a good idea to use a local birding guide** to get the most out of your visit to the area.
Mountain biking, Horse Trails & Golf
As would be expected, mountain biking is big in this area. Apart from the world famous Sani2C race that starts here, the nature of the country side and plethora of opportunities to ride a mountain bike here attracts cyclists from across the globe.
And if you are not into that sort of exercise, then you can always book a guided horseback trail. The rolling foothills and rocky streams make for peaceful riding with incredible views.
And if even that seems too much like hard work, then you can hire a golf cart and enjoy a scenic round of golf at one of several golf courses in the area.
Culture & Local Experiences
Beyond outdoor thrills, there’s plenty of culture and history to soak up:
Himeville Museum & Fort. This is a small but fascinating museum housed in an old fort, showcasing Anglo-Boer War history and local life.
The Reichenau & Centocow Missions are historic mission sites with original buildings and cultural displays that give an interesting insight into the history of this area.
Art & Craft Markets – Underberg and Himeville both host local markets featuring crafts, artisanal goods and homemade treats — perfect souvenirs from the Berg.
And of course lets not forget the legendary Splashy Fen Music Festival that takes place over the Easter Long Weekend every year. It’s been going since 1990 and lays claim to the title of longest running also draw crowds with music, food and outdoor fun.
Best Times to Visit & Tips
Whether you’re chasing snow-capped peaks in winter (June–August) or lush green landscapes in summer (October–March), you will find picture postcard scenes wherever you go.
We were there in February and sat on the porch of our cottage every afternoon watching spectacular lightening storms move through the mountains with the continual rumbling of thunder rolling across the hills.
A truly spectacular and special experience!
If you are going to book an excursion, especially up Sani Pass, or guided hikes and fly fishing, try to book in advance and check local conditions.
Final Thoughts
The Southern Drakensberg around Underberg and Himeville is one of South Africa’s most diverse travel destinations. It combines rugged natural beauty, rich history, outdoor adventures and quiet rural charm.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and will certainly return to enjoy more of what the area has to offer.
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* Clearbrook Cottage. Contact Katherine for bookings riverleafarm99ATg(ee)mail.com {sorry – primitive antispam mode engaged – so if you want to contact her use the normal @ instead of AT and take out the (ee) for the correct e-mail address}
** Stuart McLean of Birds & Beyond is a local legend who will make sure your birding is both enjoyable and productive!
