While the subtropical city of Durban has no shortage of things to see and do, there are also plenty of exciting day trips for you to choose from. Swap vibrant coastal living for the tranquility of the mountains when you embark on a Drakensberg day trip from Durban.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to see the highest mountain range in Southern Africa and marvel at the incredible natural beauty of the KwaZulu-Natal province.

Here's all you need to know about the Drakensberg, one of the most exciting day trips from Durban.

How to get to the Drakensberg from Durban?

The Drakensberg mountains, located roughly 200 kilometers from Durban, are part of the Great Escarpment that encloses the central Southern African plateau.

From Durban to the Drakensberg by car

If you choose to drive from Durban to the Central Drakensberg, the N3 would be the most accessible road to take. Drive in a westerly direction on the N3 until you reach the 179 Central Drakensberg/Estcourt exit.

The journey should take you just over 3 hours, depending on your exact destination in the Drakensberg.

From Durban to the Drakensberg by shuttle

Several shuttle services provide transport between Durban and the Drakensberg. Shuttles are reasonably priced and typically leave from King Shaka Airport and other central locations in Durban, dropping you off in Underberg or Bulwer.

The shuttle journey usually takes around 4 hours depending on traffic and how many stops there are along the way.

Guided tour to the Drakensberg from Durban

Have a professional local guide take care of all your travel arrangements—including comfortable transport and an action-packed itinerary—when you book a guided tour to Drakensberg from Durban.

Most guided tours are full-day excursions, lasting around 12 hours.

What is the typical itinerary?

Your Drakenberg day trip from Durban typically begins with a complimentary pickup service from your Durban hotel. You’ll meet your guide, climb aboard a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and make your way out of the city.

On the way to the Drakensberg, you may stop at a few other points of interest, including Pietermaritzburg, Howick Falls and the Nelson Mandela Capture site. Once you reach the Drakensberg, you’ll likely stop for lunch and participate in a few outdoor activities.

Your knowledgeable guide is there to provide insight into local culture, history and tradition and there will be plenty of time for asking questions and taking photos. At the end of the day, you’ll be driven back to Durban and get dropped off at your hotel.

What kinds of tours are available to go to the Drakensberg?

When looking for the perfect Drakensberg day trip, you have a few options to choose from — including guided tours, private tours and multi-day excursions. No matter your schedule and budget, there’s an option to suit your preferences.

Guided tour to the Drakensberg from Durban

Guided tours provide an affordable and convenient way to visit Drakensberg from Durban. These full-day excursions offer action-packed itineraries and are led by professional local guides.

As there will be other participants on the tour, you’ll get the opportunity to meet new people and make friends.

Private tour to the Drakensberg from Durban

Private Drakensberg tours cater to the needs of your group and you may have some control when it comes to the departure time and the itinerary. As you and your travel companions will be the only tour participants, you’ll enjoy a more personal experience.

Private tours are ideal if you’re wanting to explore the Drakensberg in a more intimate setting.

Multi-day tour to the Drakensberg from Durban

Make the most of your time in the mountains when you opt for a multi-day Drakensberg tour. Spend a night or two in a comfortable lodge and familiarize yourself with the region and local culture.

While most multi-day tours are private tours, there are also a few multi-day guided tours to choose from.

How much does a day trip to the Drakensberg from Durban cost?

Guided tours to the Drakensberg from Durban usually cost around US$170 for a full-day group excursion that’s inclusive of roundtrip transport, lunch, snacks and bottled water.

Private day trips typically cost US$180 per person, including roundtrip transport but excluding meals.

2-Day Drakensberg tours cost around US$400 per person while 3-day tours cost closer to US$800 per person, including transport and breakfast.

What will you see and do?

Drakensberg translates to mean ‘Dragon Mountains’, named after the region’s tall peaks and mystical atmosphere. Some of the places you may visit on a Drakensberg day trip include game reserves, waterfalls, hiking trails, the Mandela Capture site and so many more.

Giant’s Castle

Giant’s Castle is a mountain within the Drakensberg Mountain range that offers breathtaking hiking trails — filled with deep valleys, grassy plateaus, local wildlife and caves filled with rock art by the San people.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site provides a wonderful way to discover the very best of the Drakensberg.

Game and nature reserves

The Drakensberg is filled with game reserves that are home to dozens of animal species found in Southern Africa. If you visit any of these game reserves, you should keep a lookout for bearded vultures, eland and elephants among others.

Some of the region’s most popular game reserves include Cathedral Peak Nature Reserve, Ntsikeni Wildlife Reserve and Giant’s Castle Nature Reserve.

Nelson Mandela Capture Site

While the Nelson Mandela Capture Site is not technically located in Drakensberg, it is a common stop on your way back to Durban. The site, located just outside Howick, was where Mandela was arrested on 5 August 1962 before spending the next 27 years in prison.

The site is now home to an iconic steel sculpture and a visitor center that provides insight into Mandela’s life and South Africa’s past.

Lesotho

Some Drakensberg tour operators take you to see Lesotho, a landlocked country that sits on the borders of the Drakensberg mountains. Lesotho is known for being home to the ‘highest pub in Africa’, which boasts incredible views.

If you visit Lesotho during your time in the Drakensberg, you’ll need to present your passport at border control.

When is the best time to visit Drakensberg?

The best time to visit the Drakensberg is in the autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November). During these periods, the weather is moderate with less rainfall, ideal for exploring outdoors.

If you're hoping to see some snow in the mountains, plan your day trip for the winter months (June to August).

What other day trips can you do from Durban?

Travel tips

Due to its elevation and varied terrain, weather in the Drakensberg can change rapidly. Bring layers, rain gear, a sun hat, sunscreen, and sturdy hiking boots.
Respect the natural environment by packing out all your waste and minimizing your impact.
San rock art sites are sacred. Don't touch the art, and avoid using flash when photographing.

Drakensberg: Day Trips and Tours from Durban