Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, South Africa: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, South Africa? If you're planning to go to Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park
  2. Important essentials for Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park
  3. Activities for Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park
  4. Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, South Africa

Based on the climate and weather in Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, South Africa, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, South Africa

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, South Africa by month

January

If you go to Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in January, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

February

February in this region is mild. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

Traveling to Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in March, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

If you go to Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in April, you will notice that it is crisp. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

If you go to Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in May, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain occasionally. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

June

June in Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park is brisk. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you get the right type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

Traveling to Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in July, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain occasionally. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be careful to find the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

August can be brisk. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

September

Traveling to Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in September, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

October

Traveling to Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in October, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to get the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

November

November can be chilly. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be careful to pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

Traveling to Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park in December, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, South Africa

Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, located in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa, is one of the country's most breathtaking natural attractions. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is home to stunning scenery, unique wildlife, and fascinating cultural heritage. Visitors to Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park will find an endless array of activities to suit every interest, from hiking and mountain biking to bird watching and rock climbing. Here are just a few of the top tourist attractions to explore during your visit to this spectacular park.

1. Royal Natal National Park

Royal Natal National Park is one of the most popular destinations in Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, and for good reason. The park is home to the famous Amphitheatre, a towering wall of rock that rises over 1,000 meters above the valley below. The Amphitheatre is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the park, and there are numerous hiking trails that lead to the base of the cliff for a closer look.

2. San Rock Art Sites

The San people were the first inhabitants of the Drakensberg region, and they left behind a rich cultural legacy in the form of rock art. There are numerous sites within Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park that feature San rock art, dating back as far as 2,000 years. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the history and significance of the art, and view the intricate depictions of animals, people, and the natural world.

3. Tugela Falls

Tugela Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the world, and it is located within Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park. The falls tumble 948 meters down a series of cliffs, making it the second-highest waterfall in the world. Visitors can hike to the top of the falls for a stunning view, or take a helicopter tour to see the waterfall from above.

4. Cathedral Peak

Cathedral Peak is one of the most picturesque peaks in the Drakensberg range, and it is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. The peak rises to a height of 3,004 meters, and it is surrounded by lush forests, sparkling streams, and stunning views of the surrounding valleys. Visitors can take guided hikes to the summit for a challenging and rewarding adventure.

5. Birds of Prey Centre

The Birds of Prey Centre is a unique attraction within Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, and it is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. The centre is home to over 200 birds of prey, including eagles, hawks, and vultures, and visitors can take guided tours to learn about the behaviour and habitats of these magnificent birds. The centre also offers interactive demonstrations, where visitors can see the birds in action.

Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to South Africa. From stunning natural beauty to fascinating cultural heritage, this park has something for everyone. Whether you are an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or a history buff, Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park is sure to leave you awestruck and inspired.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Denmark, Denmark, Marin Headlands, California, United States of America, Horsens, Denmark, Santa Coloma de Cervelló, Spain, Terebovlya, Ukraine, Central Sierra, Peru, Fars, Iran, Ashland, New Hampshire, United States of America, Goldsboro, North Carolina, United States of America, Kuranda, Queensland, Australia, and Lansing, Michigan, United States of America.