This World Heritage site is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife and birdlife. Here's a breakdown of what makes the Drakensberg Mountains a must-visit destination for South Africans and international tourists alike.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
The Drakensberg offers a wide range of outdoor activities that cater to all interests and skill levels:
Hiking and Trekking: Explore the numerous trails, from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day treks, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. Popular spots include the Amphitheatre in the Northern Drakensberg and the Mnweni Valley.
Mountain Climbing and Abseiling: For the more adventurous, the Drakensberg provides excellent opportunities for rock climbing and abseiling, with routes suitable for beginners and experienced climbers.
Water Sports: Enjoy kayaking, tubing, swimming, and river rafting in the clear streams and rivers that flow through the valleys.
Winter Sports: During winter, the slopes transform into a winter wonderland for skiing and snowboarding.
Cultural and Historical Significance
The Drakensberg is steeped in history and culture:
Rock Art and San Heritage: Over 35,000 ancient rock paintings across 600 sites tell the story of the San people, who once inhabited these mountains. Visit the Rock Art Centre at Didima or explore the caves in Injisuthi Valley.
Anglo-Boer War Battlefields: Learn about South Africa's history by visiting battlefields like Spioenkop and Fort Durnford, where significant events took place during the Anglo-Boer War.
Drakensberg Boys Choir: Experience the enchanting performances of the Drakensberg Boys Choir, set against the stunning backdrop of the mountains.
Regional Highlights
The Drakensberg Mountains are divided into three main regions, each offering unique experiences:
Northern Drakensberg: Known for its scenic beauty and the iconic Amphitheatre, this area is perfect for hiking and offers luxury accommodations in the Royal Natal National Park.
Central Drakensberg: This region includes popular spots like Cathedral Peak, Champagne Valley, and Giants Castle. It offers a mix of adventure activities, cultural experiences, and stunning mountain vistas.
Southern Drakensberg: Famous for the Sani Pass, this area is ideal for hiking, fishing, and exploring the lush landscapes. It also features historical sites like the Himeville Museum.
Accommodation and Tourism
The Drakensberg caters to all tastes and budgets with a wide range of accommodations:
Luxury Lodges and Hotels: Enjoy high-end hospitality in areas like the Northern and Central Drakensberg.
B&Bs and Self-Catering: Find cozy B&Bs and self-catering options in villages like Underberg and Himeville.
Camping: For the more adventurous, there are numerous campsites available throughout the region.
The Drakensberg Mountains offer an unforgettable experience, combining natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. Whether you're interested in hiking, history, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views, the Drakensberg has something for everyone.
As a South African, visiting the Drakensberg is not only a chance to explore your country's heritage but also to support local tourism and communities. So, pack your bags and discover the magic of the "Barrier of Spears" for yourself.
Questions after the interview:
At the end of an interview there is usually an opportunity where you can ask any questions you might have. This is a great opportunity to show the interviewer that you are interested in the position as well as the company. It is a good idea to prepare a few questions before the interview – this can be done while you are doing research on the company.
Your questions should show the interviewer that you are a good candidate for the position. Try and avoid questions that are based on your personal needs and preferences, for instance:
- How much leave will I get in a year?
- Will I be considered for promotion in my first year?
- When will I get an increase?
- What time can I leave in the afternoon?
These questions are inappropriate at this stage and will probably raise concerns on the side of the interviewer. Should you be the successful candidate then all these questions will be answered in your letter of appointment so don’t waste this opportunity by asking these basic questions.
If the position is an entry level job or very junior then you are welcome to ask questions in line with the position, for instance:
- Why did the previous person leave the position?
- What would the successful person be tasked to do in a typical day?
- How does this position fit into the department and / or company?
- Could you explain the company structure to me?
- Is there any further education assistance or support?
If the position is more senior then you can prepare question around the following themes:
- current issues that will face the successful candidate;
- inter-personal challenges in the department;
- any process, technology or people challenges that needs to be attended to urgently;
- key result areas that need urgent attention in the first few months;
The above information should get you started. Prepare a few questions so that you can show your worth. Good luck with your interview!
