Drakensberg Mnweni Hike (July 2024)
Event Date: 11th โ 14th July 2024
Start: Mnweni Cultural Center
Finish: Mnweni Cultural Center
Duration: 45 km over three days and two nights
Altitude: 2,885m
Fitness: Moderate fitness level required but could be challenging
Beauty: 4/5
Our tip:ย take extra pairs of socks as the weather is unpredictable
The Mnweni Circuit Trail is a multi-day hiking route located in the Drakensberg Mountains of South Africa. This challenging trail is known for its stunning scenery, remote wilderness areas, and rugged terrain.
The Mnweni Circuit Trail is typically completed in three to four days (We choose to do the hike over 2 nights and 3 days) and covers a distance of approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) if you choose to start and end at the MCC. Hikers can start the trail in either direction and will encounter a variety of landscapes, including grasslands, forests, rivers, and rocky mountain passes.
One of the highlights of the Mnweni Circuit Trail is the stunning views of the Mnweni Valley and the surrounding peaks. The trail also passes by several cultural and historical sites, such as the Mnweni Rock Art and the San Cave, which provide insight into the rich history and traditions of the local Zulu people.
Hikers should be prepared for challenging terrain and altitude, as the trail reaches heights of over 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) above sea level. Proper gear, food, and water are essential, as well as knowledge of high-altitude hiking and its associated risks, including altitude sickness.
Overall, the Mnweni Circuit Trail is a challenging and rewarding adventure that offers hikers the opportunity to explore some of the most spectacular scenery in South Africa while immersing themselves in the rich culture and history of the region. ย
Here are some additional details about what you can expect on the trail:
- Trail Difficulty: The Mnweni Circuit Trail is considered a difficult trail due to its rugged terrain, steep ascents and descents, and high altitude. Hikers should have a good level of fitness and experience with multi-day hiking trips before attempting this trail.
- Trail Markings: The Mnweni Circuit Trail is not a well-marked trail, and hikers should be prepared to navigate using maps, compasses, and GPS devices or better yet use a guide. There are some cairns and trail markers along the way, but they are not consistent or reliable.
- Trail Accommodations: There are no huts or lodges along the Mnweni Circuit Trail, so hikers must bring their own camping gear and supplies. There are several designated campsites along the trail, but they do not have any facilities or amenities.
- Trail Permits: We secure permits for all Hikers interested in doing this hike with/through us before embarking on the Mnweni Circuit Trail. Permits are limited, so it is recommended to book well in advance.
- Best Time to Hike: The best time to hike the Mnweni Circuit Trail is during the South African winter months (May to September) when the weather is cooler and drier but be prepared for colder nights. Hiking during the summer months (November to February) can be challenging due to the hot and humid conditions.
Overall, the Mnweni Circuit Trail is a challenging but rewarding hiking experience that offers stunning scenery and a unique cultural and historical perspective. It is an adventure that requires careful planning, preparation, and experience, but it is one that is sure to create lasting memories. So get those glutes ready as youโll be embarking on some serious inclines and descends.
Cost: R2700 pp
Whatโs Included:
โ Guiding Fee
โ Hiking Permit + Conservation Fees
โ Shuttle to Trailhead + Shuttle from end of trail back to MCC
โ 1 Night Campsite accommodation at the MCC (Night before Hike)
Whatโs Excluded (Not Included)
-Luggage Transfer/Porterage (Not available)
-Transport (You transport yourself to the venue, but arrangements can be made based on group size at extra cost)
โ Feeding
โ Alcohol
โ Equipment (We however have hiking gear to rent)
If you have any queries or suggestions, Just send us an email or shoot us a message on WhatsApp: +27 78 949 6008
Carry as little as possible, but choose the little with care.
๐๐ค๐ฉ๐: ๐๐ฅ๐ค๐ฉ๐จ ๐๐ง๐ ๐ก๐๐ข๐๐ฉ๐๐ ๐๐ฃ๐ ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ก๐๐๐ก๐ ๐ฉ๐ค ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐จ๐ ๐ฌ๐๐ค ๐๐ค๐ค๐ ๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ฅ๐๐ฎ ๐๐๐ง๐จ๐ฉ.
ย ย ย ย ย ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐-๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐.
ย ย ย ย ย ๐๐ค๐ช ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ก๐๐๐๐๐ก๐ ๐ฉ๐ค ๐จ๐ฌ๐๐ฅ ๐ฎ๐ค๐ช๐ง ๐จ๐ฅ๐ค๐ฉ๐จ ๐ฌ๐๐ฉ๐ ๐๐ฃ๐ค๐ฉ๐๐๐ง ๐๐๐ ๐๐ง.
The hike is scheduled for 11th โ 14th July 2024. The 11th is reserved for arrival and the night will be spent at The Mnweni Cultural Center. Hike commences the day after which is the 12th July 2024.
๐๐ซ๐๐ข๐ฅ ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ข๐ฅ๐ฌ
Day 1: Mnweni Cultural and Hiking Centre to Shepardโs Cave
Total time: +/- 6hours
Total distance: +/- 17km
Total Ascent: +/- 750m
Day 2: Shepardโs Cave to Ledges Cave via Mnweni Pass
Total time: +/- 6hours
Total distance: +/- 10km
Total Ascent: +/- 1400m
Day 3: Ledges Cave to Mnweni Cultural Centre via Rockeries Pass
Total time: +/- 7hours
Total distance: +/- 18km
Total Descent: +/- 1400m
Note: Itโs important to note that this route outline is just one possible itinerary and can be adjusted based on your preferences and abilities. Be sure to check local conditions and weather forecasts before embarking on your hike and always prioritize
safety.
Highlights
The Mnweni area is a treasure trove of impressive rock formations and sculpted valleys, offering a breathtaking landscape that beckons exploration. Here are some must-see highlights that may well require more than one visit to fully appreciate:
- Madonna and Her Worshippers: An awe-inspiring rock formation that captivates the imagination.
- Mnweni Pinnacles: Majestic spires that stand tall against the sky, offering unparalleled vistas.
- The Hanging Valleys: A mind-blowing area that invites hours of exploration and discovery.
- Mnweni Needles: Sharp and dramatic rock formations that are a true spectacle.
- Mponjwane (Rockeries Tower): A towering pinnacle that dominates the skyline, also known as Rockeries Tower.
- The Rockeries: A rugged and scenic section filled with unique rock formations.
- Ledges Cave: A fascinating cave that adds to the areaโs rich tapestry of natural wonders.
These highlights make Mnweni a hikerโs paradise, each offering its own unique allure and adventure.
Here are some additional tips for completing the Mnweni Circuit Trail in 3 days:
1- Start early: Itโs important to start early each day to make the most of the daylight hours and ensure that you have enough time to complete each section of the trail.
2- Pace yourself: While itโs important to maintain a relatively fast pace to complete the trail in 3 days, itโs also important to pace yourself and take breaks as needed to rest and refuel.
3- Carry enough water: There are several water sources along the trail, but itโs important to carry enough water to last between each source. As a general rule, hikers should aim to carry at least 2-3 liters of water per day.
4- Pack light: Itโs important to pack light and carry only the essentials for the trail. This will help to reduce fatigue and make it easier to cover more distance each day.
5- Be prepared for the weather: The weather in the Drakensberg Mountains can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in temperature and weather conditions. Hikers should be prepared for cold, windy, and rainy weather, and carry appropriate gear to stay warm and dry.
By following these tips and maintaining a positive attitude, hikers can complete the Mnweni Circuit Trail in 3 days and experience some of the most stunning landscapes in South Africa.
Trail Map
At a glance
Highlights: The Mnweni rockeries route offers stunning views of the Mnweni Valley and the surrounding mountains, including the Cathedral Peak and the Mnweni Pinnacles. The Rockeries Pass is a challenging but rewarding ascent that offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The camping spots along the trail are located in beautiful and remote locations, offering a true wilderness experience.
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