7 Best Treks And Hiking Tours In Durban

Getting to the Drakensberg Mountains from Durban is a breeze, making it perfect for both casual hikers and serious trekkers. Half-day tours pack in plenty: you’ll see stunning waterfalls, ancient rock art, and often spot local wildlife while hiking UNESCO-protected trails. I particularly love the guided day trips that combine hiking with cultural stops – these offer the best bang for your buck and great photo opportunities.

The wheelchair-accessible trails deserve special mention, along with the helpful English-speaking guides. While guide quality can vary, the flexible cancellation policies mean you can book with confidence. For longer adventures, the multi-day tours with game drives are worth every penny.

Check our recommended tours below to start planning your Drakensberg adventure.

Key Points

• The Drakensberg Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer guided hiking tours with stunning natural scenery and diverse wildlife.
• Half-day tours provide approximately 2 hours of guided hiking in the Drakensberg, with the option to extend to a 2-day adventure.
• Flexible booking options, including free cancellation and pay-later options, make the Drakensberg hiking tours accessible for travelers.
• Guided tours include visits to Howick Falls and the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, enhancing the cultural and historical experience.
• Opportunities to explore ancient San rock paintings and engage in outdoor activities like mountain biking and fly-fishing complement the hiking experiences.

1/2 Day Tour to Drakensberg Mountains & Hiking From Durban

The Drakensberg Mountains, a natural wonder stretching over 1,000 kilometers along South Africa’s eastern border with Lesotho, offer a captivating day tour from Durban.

This half-day tour takes adventurers on an 8-hour journey, departing at 6 am and returning around noon. Highlights include a 2-hour hike through the majestic peaks, deep valleys, and stunning waterfalls of the Drakensberg, with the possibility of spotting wildlife like baboons, elands, and zebras.

Priced at $155.84 per person, the tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

Whether you’re seeking breathtaking natural landscapes or culture, this Drakensberg day trip is a must-do in Durban.

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1/2 Day Drakensberg Mountains & Hiking Tour From Durban

Offered by a leading tour operator in Durban, this popular 7-hour excursion whisks adventurers on a captivating journey to the Drakensberg Mountains.

Priced from $182.89 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation from several locations and approximately 2 hours of hiking through the lush, dramatic landscapes of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Towering peaks, deep valleys, and stunning waterfalls provide a breathtaking backdrop, while the chance to spot wildlife like baboons, elands, and zebras adds to the experience.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers an accessible and flexible way to explore the natural wonders of the Drakensberg.

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Drakensberg Hiking & Tala Game Reserve 2 Day Tour Fro Durban

This 2-day adventure from Durban takes explorers on an immersive journey through the Drakensberg Mountains and Tala Game Reserve.

Priced at $594.08 per person, the tour includes a 4×4 game drive in Tala, where visitors can spot diverse wildlife like rhinos, kudus, and hippos.

Hikers will traverse the rugged Drakensberg range, marveling at towering peaks, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls.

The tour also features a visit to Natal Lion Park to see elephants and lions.

With free cancellation and a private group option, this tour offers flexibility and personalization.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of activities, from mountain biking to fly-fishing, set against the breathtaking Drakensberg backdrop.

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1/2 Day Drakensberg Mountains & Hiking From Durban

Departing from Durban at the early hour of 6:00 am, this captivating 7-hour journey takes explorers on a breathtaking adventure through the rugged Drakensberg Mountains.

For $166.26 per person, travelers will embark on a 2.5-hour drive, passing through Pietermaritzburg and Howick, before embarking on a 2-hour guided hike amidst the towering peaks, deep valleys, and stunning waterfalls of the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park.

Highlights include spotting native wildlife like baboons, elands, and zebras, as well as exploring the park’s 35,000 examples of San rock paintings.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this adventure is an accessible and flexible way to experience the natural beauty of the Drakensberg Mountains.

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Half Day Drakensberg Mountains & Hiking Tour From Durban

Travelers can embark on a captivating 6-hour journey from Durban to explore the rugged beauty of the Drakensberg Mountains. The day trip costs $182.39 per person and includes hotel/airport pickup, a 2.5-hour drive, and hiking until noon.

Visitors can witness the Drakensberg’s towering peaks, valleys, and waterfalls, as well as wildlife like baboons, elands, and zebras. While the tour is wheelchair accessible and led by an English-speaking guide, customer feedback suggests variable experiences in terms of guide knowledge and trip duration.

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Drakensberg Mountains Plus Hiking Full Day Tour From Durban

The Drakensberg Mountains Plus Hiking Full Day Tour from Durban offers travelers a captivating 10-hour excursion that showcases the region’s natural wonders.

Beginning at 7:30 AM, the tour takes visitors to the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, where they can experience hiking through the towering peaks and deep valleys.

Along the way, the tour also includes stops at the iconic Howick Falls and the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, providing a balanced blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Priced from $187.10 per person, the tour is wheelchair accessible and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a convenient and flexible option for Durban-based adventures.

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Drakensberg Mountains 1/2 Day Plus Hiking From – Durban

From Durban, visitors can embark on a captivating 8-hour Drakensberg Mountains 1/2 Day Plus Hiking tour that showcases the region’s natural splendor.

Departing at 6 am, the tour passes through Pietermaritzburg and Howick before arriving at the majestic Drakensberg Mountains. Guests can enjoy hiking amidst the towering peaks, deep valleys, and stunning waterfalls, with the chance to spot wildlife like baboons, elands, and zebras.

Afterward, a lunch break precedes the return to Durban around noon. Priced from $182.39 per person, the tour offers flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience for visitors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Durban?

The best time to visit Durban is during the dry, mild weather of the spring and autumn months. Temperatures are comfortable, and there’s less rainfall, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Hiking Tours?

Most hiking tour companies in Durban don’t allow pets on their treks for safety and conservation reasons. Hikers should check with individual tour providers about their pet policies before booking. Emotional support animals may be permitted with proper documentation.

Are There Options for Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Meals?

Many hiking tour operators in the area offer vegetarian and gluten-free meal options for participants. It’s best to inquire about dietary accommodations when booking your trek to ensure your needs are met during the hike.

How Physically Fit Do I Need to Be for the Hikes?

The level of physical fitness required for the hikes depends on the specific trail. Some are more challenging and require a good level of fitness, while others are more moderate and suitable for most people. It’s best to check the difficulty level of each hike.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Group Bookings?

Many tour operators offer discounts for group bookings, often ranging from 5-10% off per person. Some also provide package deals that include transportation, meals, and other perks when booking a hike or trek as a group.

The Sum Up

Durban offers a variety of hiking tours and treks in the stunning Drakensberg Mountains. Whether you’re looking for a half-day or full-day adventure, there are options that cater to different fitness levels and interests. From exploring the mountain landscapes to visiting a game reserve, these tours provide an excellent opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the region.