Snow in the Drakensberg can transform it into

A breathtaking winter wonderland. One of the most iconic spots to witness this natural phenomenon is the Amphitheatre, a massive rock wall that towers over the region. As snow covers the peaks and cliffs, the Amphitheatre becomes a mesmerizing sight. Visitors flock to this area to capture the unique charm of the snow-capped mountains against the dramatic backdrop of the Drakensberg escarpment. The contrast between the pristine white snow and the rugged terrain creates an unforgettable experience for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re hiking through the snow or simply admiring the view, the Drakensberg snow adds a magical touch to this South African mountain range.

The most likely time of the year for snow in the Drakensberg Mountains is July. However, snowfalls can occur as early as April and as late as October, although this is more the exception rather than the rule. When it does snow, the Drakensberg transforms into a magical winter landscape, with snow-capped peaks and dramatic vistas. Some of the best places to witness this snowy spectacle include:

1. Giants Castle:

Situated in the Central Drakensberg, Giants Castle offers spectacular snow views if it does snow. Access is easy via a tar road, making it a great spot to see the snow-capped mountains. View Images

2. Highmoor:

As the highest KZN Wildlife camp in the Drakensberg, Highmoor experiences more snow than any other part of the range. A tar road leads directly to the camp, allowing visitors to play in the snow. View Images

3. Underberg and Sani Pass:

While not guaranteed every year, these southern Drakensberg villages are excellent bases for 4×4 trips up Sani Pass, where winter snow is more or less assured. Consider staying at Sani Mountain Lodge for the best snow experience.

4. Glen Reenen Rest Camp (Golden Gate National Park):

During winter, Glen Reenen Rest Camp attracts fewer visitors, creating a serene setting with untouched snow. Nearby accommodations, such as the Golden Gate Hotel or Highlands Mountain Retreat, offer cozy options to enjoy the snowfall. View Images

5. Cathedral Peak:

If you’re up for an active adventure, Cathedral Peak in the Drakensberg offers stable weather during winter. After a snowstorm, conditions can become bright and clear, making it ideal for experienced hikers to summit. The popular Cathedral Peak Hotel serves as a starting point for this exhilarating hike. View images

The temperature in the Drakensberg when it snows

The temperature can range from -15 degrees C at night to a decent 18 degrees during the day. This can vary depending on where you are on the mountain. At the top, where most of the snow collects, you could expect an average -15 degrees, excluding the wind factor. I have personally experienced -10 degrees at the bottom of the Amphitheatre at sunrise. On a clear day, with the sun out, temperatures can reach highs of 20 but it does take a while for the temperature to rise.

Best time to take photographs of the Drakensberg snow

This can depend heavily on the year. Some years, it has snowed for a longer period of time than others. Other years, it has snowed for a week and then it disappears within the next, showing only small areas of snow on the mountains. Most of the snowfall seems to occur during July, as reported by SnowReport.

I have been going in the late June, and early July seasons and I have sometimes not been lucky – there was not a lot of snow. It does often depend on the location of where you are. For guaranteed snow, I recommend middle Drakensberg or taking a trip up to Sani Pass. Either way, watching the weather forecast and asking around for updates can increase your possibility of catching the snow when it falls.

Good luck!