Water purification on Drakensberg trails — filters vs tablets vs UV pen
Everything you need to know about this one, based on 2 personal experiences.
Distance / Duration: 15km over 5 days. Grade: Strenuous.
Booking: through the relevant managing authority — permit required, book early. Do not leave this to the last minute — popular dates go many months ahead.
The trail: The exposed ridge section requires attention — do not underestimate the elevation gain compared to what the maps suggest.
What to carry: Minimum 3L water per person between refill points. A proper waterproof — weather changes fast in the mountains. Headlamp even on a day hike. High-energy snacks. If you are going multi-day, a lightweight sleeping bag rated to -5°C handles most SA mountain conditions year-round.
Safety: A Garmin inReach Mini or SPOT tracker is strongly recommended for any route where you will be out of cell signal. Mountain Rescue does charge for private rescues — travel insurance that covers helicopter evacuation is worth having.
Best time: Avoid peak summer — afternoon thunderstorms are dangerous on exposed terrain.
Questions welcome — happy to share more detail on any section of this route.
3 Replies
Useful breakdown, thanks. The booking situation is the thing that most people underestimate — I missed a chance at the Sentinel permit because I started looking too late. Set a calendar reminder 12+ months ahead and book the moment slots open.
On the kit — I have done this route twice and the one thing most people over-pack is clothing. Take one extra layer beyond what you think you need and cut everything else. On the other hand, do not skimp on the sleeping bag — a lightweight 3-season bag is the minimum for the Drakensberg in any season.
The chain ladders are completely manageable for most reasonably fit people. The exposure is real but the chains are solid and the holds are good. Go slowly, face the rock on the way down, and you will be fine. The views from the top are worth every metre of the climb.