Continuing my trend of reaching the highest places in Africa, I recently made it to the highest pub in Africa, which is 2874 metters and in Lesotho. I made it there not by hiking this time, but instead by driving in a 4x4 vehicle to take us about 20 km up a very steep gravel road called the Sani Pass. This was the first day of my most recent adventure, to the Drackensburgs. The Drackensburgs are an unbelievable and unforgettable creation. Gorgeous mountains that run down the interior of South Africa on the eastern side of Lesotho. They rival any national park in the US, and despite warnings of crowds as we visited over easter weekend, the hikes we went on had not more than a few other hikers, with well-marked trails (especially compared to Swaziland). We hiked every day, drove to several parts of the incredibly long mountain range, cooked lots of boerswors (South African sausage) and enjoyed the great weather and views. I found that while the photos turned out great, they do not do the scenery justice.
We also laughed at the scenery a bit. One day we went on an incredible day long hike into the amphitheater of the northern Drackensburgs and as the day started off quite cloudy, wet and a bit overcast we found that most of the mountains were covered in clouds. We struggled to "find" the amphitheater and headed back to camp thinking we had gotten a pretty decent view as the clouds were lifting. However, the next morning we awoke and opened our curtains and found staring back at us the true amphitheater (picture posted); we definitely couldn't miss it that time.
My friend Carolyn from high school joined us on this expedition, she arrived in South Africa just in time to enjoy the multiple holidays that take place in April. We brought her back to Swaziland with us, and together we explored my favorite hang outs in Swaziland and of course headed to Kruger National Park in South Africa for some game viewing. Seeing the sun rise and set over the bush is a scene I never grow tired of and so was thrilled to head back there with Carolyn. I'm lucky to have such great friends who come visit me; such great friends that we can pick up right where we left off, which with current communications was months ago via email.
Enjoy the photos and multiply the natural beauty in your head to truly imagine the views.
2 comments:
hi steph, amazing pics again. it sounds like such a great trip! i am off this week for weddings x2 and aruba, so i wanted to wish you a happy birthday a little in advance. i am sure it will be a memorable one in africa!
Hi Stephanie,
So glad Peggy ran into your mom so we could learn about your recent travels and experiences. Enjoyed reading your blog and love imagining what an interesting and broad education you are making for yourself… and in such a beautiful place! Peggy, Kelsey, Ryan, and Alex join me in sending best wishes for a happy birthday. Be safe and have fun!
-Neal
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