The summer sun in South Africa draws visitors from the world over to discover this beautiful time of the year. And while winter can bring rain to the coast and colder temperatures around the country, this is actually one of our favourite seasons! Here are just some of the reasons why we think you should pay a visit to the Drakensberg this winter:
Clear skies
The Drakensberg typically experiences our rain in the summer months. However this rain all but disappears from the beginning of May, only returning in September. During this time period we get very few rainy days, which means that the ‘Berg storms that can frequent the area over summer are non-existence, making mountain hiking a much more pleasant and safer experience.
Activities a plenty
The drier days in the winter months, means this is a great time to enjoy the myriad of activities available. While the water levels are too low for rafting or kayaking, you can go hot air ballooning, scootouring, horse riding and more as the chances of rain or overcast days is much less. This is also a fantastic time to see one of the bird shows in the Drakensberg or combine your visit here with a trip to a nearby game reserve where the sparser, dry bush is better for game viewing.
Beautiful snow
Occasionally in winter, usually sometime in June or July, we are blessed with some stunning snowfalls. This snow hardly ever reaches the Treks, Trips and Trails property itself and the lower slopes of the mountains are usually also not covered. What this means is that you can still partake in all the activities you want to do, such as ziplining, walking, or mountain biking, all the while enjoying stunning scenic views of the snow-capped Drakensberg mountains.
Fantastic food and wine
Colder days mean cosy fires, often accompanied by delicious food and wine. Cuddle up in the evening around the fire at Bahati Tree Lodge with a glass of warm glühwein or head down to our boma for a braai under the starlit sky. You could also venture out for a breakfast buffet, a spot of chocolate tasting, some delicious local beer, or some homemade cheesecake with a cup of coffee – the choice is yours!
