A full-day guided circuit from Durban that pairs the thunder of Howick Falls, the poignant Mandela Capture Site, and tailored hikes in the UNESCO-listed Drakensberg Mountains. Expect dramatic geology, cultural context, and a mix of easy-to-moderate trails.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of Durban’s coastal air into the slow green of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, the road unspooling toward a 95-meter curtain of water and the raw shoulders of the Drakensberg.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8–10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with regular walking fitness; able to manage uneven ground and short climbs.
Wildlife
History
The Mandela Capture Site marks Nelson Mandela’s 1962 arrest; the Drakensberg region holds layers of Zulu, colonial and farming history visible in local place names and landscapes.
Conservation
Stick to marked paths to limit erosion on fragile alpine grasslands; local efforts focus on invasive plant removal and protecting endemic plant communities.
Reserve your spot on the Drakensberg Mountains, Howick Falls & Mandela Capture from Durban today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring 2+ liters of water
Hiking sections and inland sun can dehydrate you quickly; carry refillable water and sip frequently.
Layer for changing mountain weather
Temperatures drop quickly in the Drakensberg—pack a light insulating layer and a windproof shell.
Protect from sun and wind
Wide-brim hat and sunscreen are useful on exposed viewpoints, even when cool.
Wear sturdy, grippy footwear
Trails can be rocky and slippery near streams; trail shoes or light hiking boots improve stability.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Support and grip for rocky, uneven trails in the Drakensberg.
Reusable water bottle (2L+)
Keeps you hydrated during walks and the day-long tour.
Light waterproof jacket
Summer storms are common inland—pack a compact rain shell.
summer
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Exposure on viewpoints and open trails requires reliable sun protection.