Rolling green hills, crisp mountain air, and quiet country roads set the tone for a stay in Underberg. Tucked beneath the Southern Drakensberg in KwaZulu-Natal, this small farming town is less about ticking off attractions and more about easing into nature at your own pace.
View across Lake Naverone in Underberg/Colin Watts/Unsplash
Underberg rewards travellers who want access to big landscapes without complicated logistics. A short drive connects you to hiking trails, trout dams, cultural sites and one of the country’s most iconic mountain passes. Families, couples and solo explorers can shape the experience to suit their rhythm.
Wide open spaces and winding gravel roads encourage you to slow down and notice the details you’d often miss, writes Lee Ann Steyn.
Explore the Southern Drakensberg on foot
Discover gentle walks and scenic viewpoints
Underberg is an ideal base for exploring the lower reaches of the Drakensberg. Trails range from easy riverside strolls to more demanding hikes that climb towards dramatic ridgelines. Many guesthouses and lodges have their own short walking paths, which means you can start your morning with a mountain view before breakfast.
Drakensberg Gardens and nearby reserves offer clearly marked routes with waterfalls, pools and sweeping views across the valleys. Coleford Nature Reserve is a quieter option, known for its grassland scenery, birdlife and peaceful dam.
Early starts are worthwhile. Morning light spills across the hills, and temperatures are cooler, especially in summer when afternoon storms can build quickly.
Plan a day hike without overcomplicating it
Local tourism offices and accommodation hosts are excellent sources of up-to-date trail advice. A printed map, water, sunscreen and layered clothing are usually all you need for shorter hikes. Weather in the Berg can shift quickly, so a light jacket belongs in your backpack year-round.
Spend time on the river
Tube or paddle along the Mzimkulu
The Mzimkulu River threads through the landscape and offers a refreshing way to spend a warm afternoon. Tubing trips are easy to arrange through local operators and suit families with older children as well as groups of friends. Canoeing is another relaxed option for those who prefer a slower glide downstream.
Pack secure footwear for rocky sections and a dry bag for valuables. Summer brings the best water levels, although conditions vary depending on rainfall.
Try trout fishing in clear mountain waters
Underberg is well known for fly fishing. Dams and rivers in the area attract anglers in search of trout, and day permits are often available through local farms or reserves. Even beginners can arrange guided sessions, which add insight into technique and local ecology.
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Take on the iconic Sani Pass
Join a guided 4×4 adventure into Lesotho
A visit to Underberg feels incomplete without mentioning Sani Pass. This steep mountain route climbs from the foothills into Lesotho, offering hairpin bends and extraordinary views along the way. Guided 4×4 tours remove the stress of navigating the rugged terrain and add fascinating commentary about the region’s geology and history.
A valid passport is required if you plan to cross the border. Weather conditions can affect access, so booking with an experienced operator is essential.
Pause at the highest pub in Africa
At the top of the pass, travellers often stop at the well-known mountain pub for a warm meal or drink with panoramic views. Clear days reveal endless ridges stretching into the distance, making the journey as memorable as the destination.
Explore local culture and heritage
Visit Himeville Museum
Just a few minutes from Underberg, Himeville offers a glimpse into the area’s frontier history. The local museum, housed in a historic fort, showcases artefacts linked to early settlers, farming traditions and the broader story of the Southern Drakensberg.
This short cultural detour balances the outdoor focus of most itineraries.
Seek out rock art and storytelling
Guided excursions to nearby rock art sites introduce visitors to the legacy of the San people. Knowledgeable guides provide context that transforms simple paintings on stone into vivid stories about belief systems and daily life.
Small group tours create space for questions and deeper engagement with the landscape.
Slow down at farms and markets
Browse the Underberg farmers’ market
Weekend mornings are ideal for sampling local produce, baked goods and handmade crafts. The farmers’ market reflects the agricultural roots of the area and offers an easy way to meet residents and gather picnic supplies.
Fresh bread, locally grown vegetables and strong coffee set the tone for an unhurried day.
Stop at farm stalls and country cafés
Scattered along the surrounding roads, farm stalls sell cheese, preserves and seasonal fruit. Country cafés provide hearty breakfasts and relaxed lunches, often with mountain views as a backdrop. These informal stops require little planning and often become highlights of the trip.
Time your visit around a festival
Experience Splashy Fen
Over the Easter weekend, the hills near Underberg host Splashy Fen, one of South Africa’s longest-running music festivals. Live performances, camping and a festive atmosphere draw visitors from across the country. Accommodation fills quickly during this period, so early booking is essential.
Outside festival season, the region returns to its quiet rural character.
Practical tips for families, couples and solo travellers
Families
Choose accommodation with open lawns or self-catering facilities for flexibility. River outings, gentle walks and picnic spots keep younger travellers engaged without long drives.
Couples
Book a cottage with mountain views and plan sunrise walks followed by slow breakfasts. Evenings are perfect for stargazing, especially in winter when skies are clear and crisp.
Solo travellers
Underberg offers a sense of safety and simplicity that suits independent exploration. Join a guided hike or Sani Pass tour to connect with others, then enjoy quiet time with a book overlooking the hills.
Make it a two- or three-day escape
A long weekend works well in Underberg. Dedicate one day to hiking, another to Sani Pass, and keep a final day open for markets, fishing or a relaxed river outing. Distances are short, which means less time driving and more time outdoors.
Underberg proves that memorable travel does not require elaborate planning. Fresh air, mountain views and genuine country hospitality do most of the work.
