UKhahlamba / Drakensberg Park, Protected area and UNESCO World Heritage Site in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
UKhahlamba / Drakensberg Park is a protected area in KwaZulu-Natal featuring sandstone cliffs, peaks, valleys, and river systems throughout its mountainous terrain. The landscape transitions between densely forested slopes and open grasslands, creating diverse zones for exploration.
The area received UNESCO World Heritage Site designation in 1993, recognizing both its natural mountain landscape and the preservation of rock art. This designation brought international attention to protecting and studying the region scientifically.
The name UKhahlamba means Barrier of Spears, referring to the mountain shapes that define this eastern region. Local communities have deep connections to these lands through generations of living among these peaks.
The area offers multiple hiking trails, climbing routes, and viewpoints with varying difficulty levels and lengths. Accommodation ranges from fully equipped lodges to simple mountain huts, depending on your needs and travel style.
The area holds the largest collection of San rock paintings south of the Sahara, with some artworks spanning thousands of years. These paintings offer rare glimpses into the lives and thoughts of the region's earliest inhabitants.
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