Sunrise on mountain peaks. Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, Kwazulu Natal Province, South Africa

Getty Images/Gallo Images

Monk’s Cowl


Hikes ranging from a few hours to a few days in length, rock climbing and panoramic views are all on offer at Monk's Cowl. This reserve lies within uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park and contains three peaks: Monk’s Cowl (1491m), Champagne Castle (3376m) and Cathkin Peak (3180m).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Falcon Ridge

1.73 MILES

Falcon Ridge, with awesome raptor-flying demonstrations and talks, is 7km from the Drakensberg Sun turn-off.

2. Injisuthi

5.23 MILES

Injisuthi features some of the most spectacular views in the Drakensberg. On the grounds of what used to be a private farm, this KZN Wildlife park is home…

3. Cathedral Peak Nature Reserve

12.76 MILES

Cathedral Peak Nature Reserve is known for having some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the Drakensberg. It sits between Royal Natal National Park and…

4. Didima San Rock Art Centre

12.79 MILES

The Didima San Art Centre, at Didima Camp 1km into Royal Natal National Park, offers an insight into San rock art, though sadly many of the exhibits,…

5. Giant’s Castle

16.53 MILES

The Giant’s Castle ridge is one of the most prominent features of the Berg and the park that surrounds it remains one of the most popular destinations in…

6. Main Cave

17.25 MILES

The Giant’s Castle area is rich in San rock art. It's thought that the last San lived here at the beginning of the 20th century. To see some of these…

7. Winterton Museum

18.19 MILES

This small museum is stuffed with insightful exhibits on San rock art, Zulu history and the Anglo-Boer war, specifically the Spioenkop battle.

8. Lammergeier Hide

20.9 MILES

The rare lammergeier, also known as the bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus), which is found only in the Drakensberg, nests in the reserve. Reserve staff…