My husband and I are planning a trip to Drakensberg in December and will spend about 11 days in the area. I know that this is the start of the rain season, but this is the only time that we can get away.
We want to do around 2 overnight hikes (2-day hikes preferably) while in the area and are experienced hikers with the necessary gear.
We’ll be coming in from the North and heading out via South. If there were two overnight (2-day) hikes that you could recommend, what would they be? We don’t know the area and would also want to choose safely as it is just the two of us. If it is not safe at all for the two of us we might have to just stick to day hikes?
…for excessive amounts of useful information. If you ask there or search for 1-2 night overnight hikes you’ll get plenty results. Also look at the “Mini Hike Reports” thread…
Very general guide:
In the Northern Berg it feels more rugged, the mountains, cliffs etc feel closer and more compact. From Giants Castle south it opens up more, a more expansive feel.
Many of the contour/other paths can be quite overgrown, unkempt or gone.
Get the Slingsby maps, either digital or physical. Very useful for planning. But as for point above don’t expect the paths to always be there unless it’s a high-ish traffic area.
You’d have to clarify too whether you want to climb passes into Lesotho or not.
And your fitness levels. Passes can be very demanding.
If you study the VE links and site a bit and then propose some ideas you’ll also get more useful feedback.
Edit:
Also, if I’m reading your post correctly, you mean camping out 1 night. Unless you’re fit and/or starting early you’ll probably only reach the top of the escarpment, camp and return more or less via the same pass, or a close enough exit pass. Generally speaking. 2 nights out will give you many more options.