Tugela Valley

The Amphitheatre

Kloof Gully and Chain Ladders

On a clear day, summer or winter, climbing to the top of the Amphitheatre is a breath-taking experience, specially as regards the view from the escarpment. All the way from the Sentinel Car Park, whether one climbs the Chain Ladders or tackles the Kloof Gully, Nature offers surprise after surprise: from the miniature montane flora growing on the banks of a burbling stream to the occasional glimpse of mountain Reebuck, various raptor species, the rare puff adder and occasionally a noisy small baboon troop; one gets to feel part of the pristine environment.

Tugela Falls

The water on the mountain is crystal clear and tastes as good as it looks. A few streams cross the plateau and the biggest of these forms the Tugela Falls. Be careful when approaching the edge of the falls, it is a long and rocky way to the bottom. In dry winters the Tugela Falls may dry up completely, but the drop remains spectacular.

There are rock pools and the water is refreshing but not uncomfortably cold on hot summer days. In winter there may be ice and very low night-time temperatures ensure that only the hardiest visitors are likely to be able to enjoy bathing in the streams. Winter days can be quite warm, but temperature changes can be sudden and problematic. We always recommend that visitors take warm clothing with them.

In summer, thunderstorms can hit suddenly and even though they normally last only a short while, being drenched to the bone is no pleasure whether going up or coming down. We recommend protective clothing and the wisdom to abandon the climb if a thunderstorm hits. There is no real shelter at the top; the Mountain Club has a hut there. but it may not be accessible and its maintenance is a bit erratic.

Usually one ought to stick to the paths, but the plateau is very flat and it is safe to meander aimlessly without the danger of getting lost as long as one gets a bit of a bearing first. Of course, staying on the path is less damaging to the environment. It is comforting that one is seldom alone on the top, in general, hikers are helpful if you need assistance.

Less known Features of the Golden Gate

Nestled in the Maluti Mountains, the Golden Gate National Park is much less subject to extremes than its Drakensberg equivalents. It is readily accessed by car and one can drive into the heart of the reserve on paved roads. But the real pleasure lies with the gentle and not so gentle hikes one can undertake.