The Drakensberg Mountains in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) aren’t recognized for deep snow just like the Alps or Rockies, however sure peaks do get an honest winter dusting. For those who’re chasing snowfall in KZN, that is the place you’ll wish to look…
1. Sani Move and the Border Peaks
At over 2 800 metres above sea stage, Sani Move and the encircling peaks close to the Lesotho border are a number of the snowiest within the Drakensberg. The street as much as the Sani Mountain Lodge usually turns into impassable throughout heavier snowfalls. It’s one of the dependable locations to see snow within the area, often between June and August. Chilly fronts sweeping in from the south hit this high-altitude space exhausting.
2. Thabana Ntlenyana (Lesotho facet, close to KwaZulu-Natal border)
Technically in Lesotho, however shut sufficient to the KwaZulu-Natal facet of the Drakensberg, Thabana Ntlenyana is the very best peak in southern Africa at 3 482 metres. It sees frequent snow throughout winter. Whereas not in KZN correct, it’s seen from many excessive factors within the area and is a part of the better Drakensberg system.
3. Giants Fort space
The Giants Fort part of the Drakensberg, positioned within the central a part of the vary, usually receives snow on its higher ridges. Peaks right here rise over 3 000 metres. Snow often sticks to the very best areas, however sometimes blankets decrease trails, particularly after a robust chilly entrance.
4. Cathedral Peak and Champagne Fort
These widespread mountain climbing and climbing areas additionally see common snowfall, although lower than Sani Move or Giants Fort. The peaks are excessive (Champagne Fort tops out at 3 377 metres), and whereas snow doesn’t all the time attain the valleys, the higher slopes flip white a couple of occasions every winter.
5. Mnweni and the Northern Drakensberg
This lesser-developed area of the Drakensberg is colder and distant, with excessive cliffs and open ridges that catch snow when the climate turns. Whereas not as simply accessible, it’s one of many wildest and most photogenic snow locations in KZN.
When to go
The snow season within the Drakensberg usually runs from June to August, with the most effective possibilities after chilly fronts shifting up from the south-west. The snowfall is usually mild to average however sometimes surprises with heavy falls that final a number of days!
Have you ever seen snow within the Drakensberg Mountains?
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