The Drakensberg

Literally translated as the Dragon's Mountains, the Drakensberg are South Africa's Alps.

Over the Easter weekend I did a four-day hike into this formidable mountain range. I'd climbed Table Mountain three times, used to live in Colorado and was a mountain goat when it comes to climbing. Except for a fear of heights, nothing could stop me, right?

If only it was that easy...I quickly learned my lesson and a new respect for one of the most beautiful parts of the country. Not only do you have to contend with snakes, jackals, poachers, bandits, and drug runners, there's the ever-present threat of bad weather hovering over your head, waiting...

I was incredibly lucky on my trip. Not only did I have a great group to help me, we were blessed with sunshine throughout the four days. But if it had rained or snowed, especially when we were on top...well I wouldn't be writing this today.

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The use of these pictures without permission is expressly forbidden. All pictures on this page are copyrighted property of Lee Berthiaume, 2002, 2003. If you'd like to use any of the pictures for some purpose or another, please contact me and arrangements can be made.