Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa
Fast Facts
ACTIVITIES
Hiking
 
 

Drakensberg Mountains

 

Photo by Andrew and Jodi Tanenbaum

South Africa's Drakensberg Mountains or uKhahlamba, barrier of spears, is revered by hikers and archaeology aficionados alike. This chain of mountains, extending 200 km (124 miles) along KwaZulu Natal's border with Lesotho, has been designated a World Heritage Site for its natural and cultural significance. Hike to one of the park's many caves and discover one or more of the 35,000 rock paintings made by San bushmen, stone age hunter-gatherers that inhabited this area as early as 8000 years ago. And should the kids need a break from cultural expeditions, spend a lazy morning or afternoon fishing for bass and trout in the many rivers and dams or ride horseback through the Berg. While certain activities such as abseiling and river rafting may demand a minimum level of skill, a family vacation in the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park requires nothing more than the spirit of adventure.
History & Culture
 
A family vacation in KwaZulu Natal provides an opportunity to introduce the kids to history of the Zulu nation as well as Zulu culture and beadwork.
Maps
 
Books
 
The province of KwaZulu Natal has a rich tradition in literature. Discover local writers as well as authors who have written about this South African province. Yet a trip through books need not stop there. Discover Zulu proverbial sayings and learn more about the local culture.
Music & Sound
 
Music is a great way to introduce the kids to a new adventure. Listen to local music and explore the sound of Zulu.
News
 
Local newspapers provide insight to local culture in a way books can't. Read South African news online and brush up on South African current events. Get South African news and, in addition to discovering what South Africans are reading, find out what's happening in KwaZulu Natal and test your Zulu language skills.
Kids' Stuff
 
Did you know that sawubona is the Zulu word for hello? Use an online dictionary to translate English to Zulu, learn key phrases and unlock the sound. Introduce your children to conservation and wildlife, test their knowledge, and play wildlife games online before you depart on a wildlife safari or birdwatching tour.
Organizations
 
Associations and non-profit organizations are a valuable resource as well as means to get involved. Learn about a few of the organizations active in the South African province of KwaZulu Natal. Find out who's doing what to conserve wildlife and the environment and preserve natural treasure such as iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Recommended Reads for Family Travel to South Africa
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