Tarn Drakensberg Cave Hike (2 Days)

Maximum Number of Hikers

Maximum Number of Hikers

12 Tarn Drakensberg Cave Hike

Intermediate Drakensberg Hike
Overnight Hike

The Tarn Drakensberg cave hike is perfect to get out in the mountains and probably have one of the best views from inside a cave. It is lovely and big with quite a few “rooms” and can easily fit 30 people. Don’t worry though because I only take 10 guests.

We do have to be prepared for water though because there is not a great supply nearby.

The 2 day overnight hike to Tarn Drakensberg cave starts at Bushmans nek Ezemvelo office. For the first 4km we stroll along the Ngwangwane river while looking up the big valley. Up ahead we can see the Devil’s knuckles way above us and to the right Senottolong.

We actually walk along the border of the Kingdom of Lesotho.

At the last river crossing we fill up with water and then start the ascent to Tarn cave. Cedric’s pool is a nice spot to rest and cool down before we head up the hill. As we walk higher we can look back down the valley and see land marks like Garden Castle and even the Rhino. In the valley on the other side we can see some old buildings in ruins in Sehlabathebe National park.

As we approach the cave you will see why it is called Tarn cave.

The rock formations around here are amazing and some water collects in the rocks or on the grass. As they don’t have any water source they are called tarns. Usually this hike takes us between 4 and 5 hours so we arrive in time for a big mug of tea while enjoying the stillness and of course the views.

The next morning we have to watch the sun rise and shine orange on the huge cliffs to our left. Someone has to do it. Then after breakfast we saunter back down to our cars at Bushmans nek. This hike is suitable for anyone that loves mountains as well as families with kids over 12 years old.

Tarn Drakensberg Cave Hike Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate Overnight Hike

Drakensberg Hiking Package Options

We have differentiated between options for porters for your hike using ‘Gold’, ‘Silver’ and ‘Bronze’ as the options to choose from, so remember to select the correct option on your enquiry or hike form when you contact us.

We understand that the Gold, Silver and Bronze packages might seem a bit confusing, so we have done some calculations to assist you with which one will be most suitable for you, and to ensure that you have the most enjoyable hike possible!

It is a good idea as part of your hike preparation to do some extra walking anyway, so while doing a walk of approximately 5km, including some uphill and downhill parts, carry a pack with the pack weight listed in the description of the package you are interested in. If you are quite comfortable with that weight, then that is the right option for you.

If you find yourself battling, and don’t have time to do some more preparation, then consider moving to a different package.

All three options (Bronze, Silver & Gold) include full catering, and the supply of your tent.

GOLD

Fully Portered Drakensberg Hike

You carry only a day-pack containing your own with drinks, snacks and jacket for each day.

Includes 3 meals a day!

You will not be carrying a standard hiking backpack at all, instead we will supply you with a 35l drybag into which you will put all your personal gear for our porters to carry.

The day pack you will carry weighs approximately 4kg.

Sleeping bags, tents, etc are carried our porters who also put your tent up!

SILVER

Partially Portered Drakensberg Hike

You carry a backpack with your clothes, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, wash kit, and water bottle.

Includes 3 meals a day!

The pack weight you will carry on the Silver Package is approximately 14kg.

Tents etc are carried and put up by our porters.