uKhahlamba / Drakensberg Park

The uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park is a protected area in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa, covering 2,428.13 km2 (938 sq mi), and is part of the...

uKhahlamba / Drakensberg Park at a Glance

Location
KwaZulu-Natal Bush & Coast, South Africa, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-29.281742, 29.307890
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Moderate
Malaria Risk
None
Best Time to Visit
May to September (dry winter) for big game viewing. October to March for birdwatching and lush landscapes.

Getting to uKhahlamba / Drakensberg Park

Nearest airport: Malefiloane Airstrip (FXML), 13 km away.

Nearest international airport: Moshoeshoe I International Airport (MSU), 171 km away.

Weather & Climate in uKhahlamba / Drakensberg Park

The warmest temperatures in uKhahlamba / Drakensberg Park occur in December, averaging 10.8°C (up to 15.6°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 1.0°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 4.3mm. Average humidity: 43.6%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 10.7°C (rainfall: 188.7mm)
  • February: 10.6°C (rainfall: 149.1mm)
  • March: 9.3°C (rainfall: 87.5mm)
  • April: 6.2°C (rainfall: 70.5mm)
  • May: 3.7°C (rainfall: 18.1mm)
  • June: 1.2°C (rainfall: 11.8mm)
  • July: 1.0°C (rainfall: 4.3mm)
  • August: 3.0°C (rainfall: 18.2mm)
  • September: 6.6°C (rainfall: 43.9mm)
  • October: 8.2°C (rainfall: 109.7mm)
  • November: 9.5°C (rainfall: 102.0mm)
  • December: 10.8°C (rainfall: 181.4mm)

Best Time to Visit uKhahlamba / Drakensberg Park

The best months to visit uKhahlamba / Drakensberg Park are June, July, August, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Poor, temperature 10.72°C, rainfall 188.7mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 76.1%
  • February: Good, temperature 10.59°C, rainfall 149.1mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 77.1%
  • March: Good, temperature 9.27°C, rainfall 87.5mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 72.8%
  • April: Good, temperature 6.15°C, rainfall 70.5mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 70%
  • May: Good, temperature 3.73°C, rainfall 18.1mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 60.2%
  • June: Great, temperature 1.2°C, rainfall 11.8mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 52.2%
  • July: Great, temperature 0.99°C, rainfall 4.3mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 43.6%
  • August: Great, temperature 3.02°C, rainfall 18.2mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 44.6%
  • September: Great, temperature 6.57°C, rainfall 43.9mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 51.9%
  • October: Good, temperature 8.2°C, rainfall 109.7mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 59.5%
  • November: Good, temperature 9.51°C, rainfall 102mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 65.2%
  • December: Poor, temperature 10.77°C, rainfall 181.4mm, sunshine 12 hrs, humidity 70.7%

Wildlife in uKhahlamba / Drakensberg Park

Home to 71 recorded species including 27 iconic birds, 21 birds of prey, 21 waterbirds, 1 tropical birds, 1 primates.

Recommended Packing List for uKhahlamba / Drakensberg Park

Based on average temperature of 6.7°C, typical conditions, humidity 62%.

  • Heavy layers & thermal clothing - temperatures around 7°C require warm insulation
  • Warm hat & gloves - critical for early morning game drives
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in uKhahlamba / Drakensberg Park

44 safari lodges available.

Other

luxury

budget

Similar Parks in KwaZulu-Natal Bush & Coast

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for South Africa

Travel advisory for South Africa

uKhahlamba / Drakensberg Park FAQs

When is the optimal time to visit uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park for outdoor activities and clear views?

The best time is typically during the dry winter months (May to September) for crisp, clear days ideal for hiking, though nights can be very cold. Spring (September to November) offers lush landscapes and wildflowers, while summer (December to February) brings thunderstorms but also vibrant greenery.

What specific wildlife encounters can I anticipate in uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, given its mountainous terrain?

While not a Big Five safari destination, the park is renowned for its high-altitude species, including the majestic Eland, various smaller antelope like Grey Rhebok, and diverse birdlife such as the Bearded Vulture. Keep an eye out for unique reptiles and amphibians adapted to the mountain environment.

Beyond hiking, what unique cultural or adventure experiences does uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park offer?

The park is famous for its extensive collection of San rock art, offering a profound cultural experience at sites like Giant's Castle and Kamberg. Adventure seekers can also enjoy horse riding, mountain biking, and exploring dramatic geological formations like the Amphitheatre.

What practical safety considerations should I be aware of when exploring uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park?

Hikers should always be prepared for sudden weather changes, carry sufficient water, and inform someone of their route, especially on longer trails. While the park is malaria-free, general precautions like sun protection and staying on marked paths are advised for a safe visit.

What are the typical costs and accommodation options for a traveler visiting uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park?

Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly camping and self-catering chalets within the park to luxury lodges just outside its boundaries. Entrance fees apply per person per day, and it's advisable to book popular accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Botswana & Namibia by Lonely Planet - Covers the Okavango Delta, Chobe, Etosha, Sossusvlei, and the Skeleton Coast. Essential for self-drive safaris through two of southern Africa's wildest destinations.
  • Lonely Planet Zambia & Mozambique by Lonely Planet - From Victoria Falls and South Luangwa to Mozambique's pristine coastline. Practical advice for two of Africa's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path destinations.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • Lonely Planet Southern Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Practical planning information with detailed park and city guides.
  • Lonely Planet South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive guide to South Africa including Kruger, Garden Route, Cape Town, and the Drakensberg. Essential for self-drive safari planning.
  • The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony - Incredible true story of saving a herd of rogue elephants in Zululand, South Africa. A massive bestseller that will change how you see elephants forever.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Roberts Bird Guide by Hugh Chittenden, Greg Davies & Ingrid Weiersbye - Comprehensive southern African bird guide covering 960+ species with detailed range maps and illustrations. The birder's bible for safaris in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Sasol Birds of Southern Africa by Ian Sinclair, Phil Hockey & Warwick Tarboton - The southern Africa birding bible. Covers over 950 species with detailed illustrations, distribution maps, and habitat notes. The most trusted bird field guide for South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • An Elephant in My Kitchen by Francoise Malby-Anthony - The moving sequel to The Elephant Whisperer, written by Lawrence Anthony's wife. Continues the story of the Thula Thula elephants after his death. A beautiful account of the bond between humans and elephants.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.