Cathedral Peak

Cathedral Peak Nature reserve - northern Drakensberg

Cathedral Peak Nature Reserve borders on the upper Thukela area in the north and east, Lesotho in the west and Monks Cowl in the south, this section of the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park is 32 000 hectares in extent. Cathedral Peak containing the magnificent Didima Valley with its many examples of San Rock art, it is a hikers paradise offering routes that range from a few hours to several days.

For the visitors less inclined to physical activity or whose time is limited, Mikes Pass provides an opportunity to drive to the top of the Little Berg near the head of Didima Gorge for spectacular views of the main escarpment and the surrounding lowlands.

While hiking in the Cathedral Peak area, a wide selection of plants and animals can be seen in the extensive grasslands and forest patches characteristic of this part of the Drakensberg.

Overhead the effortless flight of a Bearded vulture (Lammergeyer) while closer at hand Malachite sun birds flash from protea to protea, a noisy troop of baboons bark at the intruders in their domain and a family of Mountain reedbuck display their white tails as they race up a nearby slope. Cathedral Peak now offers an upmarket 140 bed huttted camp themed to the San People and their rock art and a modern interactive interpretive centre which l allows visitors a glimpse into the lives of these First People.