Popple Peak

Popple Peak is a summit within the Drakensberg range along the Lesotho-South Africa border, rising to approximately 3,250 meters. The mountain features steep rock faces and rugged terrain typical of this high-altitude range.

The summit was named in 1946 following John Poppleton's attempt to climb it during a thunderstorm. Barry Anderson gave the peak its name to honor this mountaineering attempt.

The peak sits within territory historically connected to San peoples, whose rock art and spiritual practices remain woven into the mountain landscape. Local communities view these elevations as integral to their cultural identity.

The mountain demands technical climbing skills year-round, with unstable weather conditions requiring proper mountaineering gear. Visitors should prepare for rapidly changing conditions and demanding terrain.

The peak belongs to an exclusive group called Khulus: mountains above 3,000 meters that stand more than 1 kilometer away from other similar elevations. This rare classification sets it apart on the regional mountain landscape.

GPS coordinates: -29.22874,29.40637

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:21