- Where: South Africa, KwaZulu-Natal Province
- Height above sea level: 3482 meters
- Highest point: Thabana-Ntlenjana
- Countries: South Africa, Lesotho, Swaziland
The lost world of the Dragon Mountains is one of the most beautiful places on our Earth. The Drakensberg Mountains on the map of the world or Africa are easy to find, they occupy the territory of three African states - South Africa , Swaziland and Lesotho. The mountain massif is a practically monolithic wall made of solid basalt with a length of one thousand kilometers. The mountains stretch along the southeastern coast of South Africa and are a natural watershed between the rivers flowing into the Atlantic and Indian Ocean. The highest point of the Drakensberg Mountains, Mount Thabana-Ntlenjan, 3482 m in height, is located on the territory of the state of Lesotho.
Over the eastern slopes of the mountains there is a lot of precipitation, in the region of the western slopes there is a more arid climate. In the Dragon Mountains, there are many operating mines, where gold, tin, platinum and coal are mined.
More than two million tourists visit the South African Republic , the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal every year to see the true miracle of nature - the Drakensberg Mountains.
Myths and legends of the Dragon Mountains
There are several versions of the origin of this unusual name. Local people like to tell a legend about the huge fire-breathing dragon that they saw in these parts in the 19th century. Perhaps the name of the Drakensberg Mountains (Drakensberg) came from the Boers, who called them so inaccessible, because between rocky ledges and mountain placers it is very difficult to make their way. Another version of the name comes from misty haze, enveloping the tops of the mountains. Fog clubs are very similar to pairs from the nostrils of a dragon.
Of great interest is rock art in mountain caves: scientists have determined that the age of some drawings exceeds 100 thousand years! The natural reserve of Ukashlamba-Drakensberg, on the territory of which there are caves with prehistoric letters, was listed in 2000 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Drakensberg Mountains are a beautiful corner of South Africa where you can enjoy the pure air, the rustling of wind and forests, over which hawks, eagles, bearded eagles and vultures hover. Predatory animals have long since left these places, thus creating conditions for the reproduction of many species of antelope. Herds of graceful animals are often found along the route of excursion routes.
Park Ukashlamba-Drakensberg - a great place for a weekend in which you can stay for a couple of days in a cozy house or hostel, to fish trout in crystal deep lakes. For fans of outdoor activities - rock climbing, white water rafting, horseback riding and walking.
How to get there?
The Drakensberg Mountains are just a couple of hours drive from Durban , a city on the east coast of South Africa. Durban Airport receives international flights and flights from other cities of South Africa around the clock. You can go to the mountains with a tent and tourist equipment, and those who want a more relaxing holiday, the park staff will be offered to stay in one of the hotels.
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
