Skip to main content

Monks Cowl

Hikes in Monks Cowl area. Monks Cowl is the gateway to some of the most magnificent mountain Wilderness areas in South Africa. Taking its name from the distinctive mountain between Champagne Castle and Cathedral Peak, Monks Cowl marks the access to the Mlambonja and Mdedelelo mountain Wilderness areas.

Champagne Castle Via Gray's Pass Hike

Champagne Castle Via Gray's Pass Hike

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Champagne Castle is the second highest mountain in South Africa at 3377m and is located in the central drakensberg. This hike is perfect for fit hikers who are looking for a unique multi day hiking experience.
Read More...

Cleo's Pools Hike

Cleo's Pools Hike

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

There is a small cave next to the stream which has an interesting burial site in the right side of the cave. The burial chamber was upright to cater for a body in a seated position and the remains of a bushman type person were removed for research purposes in the middle of the last century, but the stones of the grave ...
Read More...

This is a great 3 hour (6,6km circular route) moderate walk through an indigenous forest to a magnificent grotto with waterfall and pool. The water can be cold as not too much sun shines into the pool. After the pool head up the hill to Barry's Grave. Dick Barry was one of the early mountaineering pioneers of the area ...
Read More...

Drakensberg Sun to Fern Forest

Drakensberg Sun to Fern Forest

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

An easy family hike starting at Drakensberg Sun of 4.3km in total distance.
Read More...

Gray's Pass

Gray's Pass

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Gray's Pass can be described as great gain for little pain. The pass itself is quite short and is situated in the Monks Cowl area, its still however a difficult hike.
Read More...

Ship's Prow Pass (South)

Ship's Prow Pass (South)

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Ship's Prow South Pass is the advised route option, the North Fork has had rockfalls in the past and is very dangerous. This is a long pass and tops out at 3292m, the highest pass in the Drakensberg.
Read More...

Sterkspruit Falls

Sterkspruit Falls

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

An easy walk to the falls starting at the Monks Cowl entrance. Take the well marked path down to the falls. 1 to 2 hours in total time returning back to Monks Cowl entrance.
Read More...

Sterkspruit Falls and Nandi Falls

Sterkspruit Falls and Nandi Falls

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

A scenic 8km circular hike to Sterkspruit Falls and Nandi's Falls with a total elevation gain during the hike of 330m.
Read More...

The Sphinx Hike

The Sphinx Hike

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

A moderate walk from Monks Cowl of 2.4 km and elevation of 312 m to the Sphinx passing Crystal falls on the way. The views are lovely once reaching the Sphinx. Along the way you walk past Crystal Falls, which is a beautiful waterfall inside of one of the many forests that you will need to walk through. This is a good ...
Read More...