Bell Traverse Drakensberg

When it comes to determining the best hiking experiences in the Drakensberg, two routes come to mind. The Bell Traverse Hike Via Organ  Pipes Pass and  the Mini Traverse hike from the Sentinel to Cathedral Peak. Rated as the top hikes in the Drakensberg based on a number of criteria from the stunning scenery, remoteness, challenge and location. The Bell Traverse is a popular choice for hikers with limited time taking 3 days to complete. This is in comparison to the Mini Traverse that takes 5 days.

The Bell Traverse Route

The Bell Traverse hike follows a circular route starting and ending at the Cathedral Peak Hotel in the Central Drakensberg area. The distance covered is about 40km over 3 days. We spend 2 nights in the mountains sleeping in Rolands Cave on day 1 and Twins Cave on day 2. The route to the escarpment is up Organ Pipes Pass and Cleft Peak at 3,277m. Once on top, we hike north along the escarpment towards Twins Cave, the starting point of the Bell Traverse Hike. One we have completed the traverse, we make our way back down to Cathedral Peak Hotel via Bugger Gully, Orange Peal Gap and Shermans Cave.

Difficulty level of the Bell Traverse Hike

The Bell Traverse Hike is considered to be a challenging hike. Previous hiking experience and a good level of fitness is required for the hike. Factors that influence the difficulty level:

• The hiking terrain in the Drakensberg can be tough and super exposed. Some of the main areas of concern would be the entrance into Rolands Cave and a couple of sections on the the Bell Traverse. The path is very narrow with massive steep drops. Hikers with a fear for heights should not attempt this hike. The path is also not advisable in wet and rainy conditions.
• Volatile weather conditions must always be taken into account when hiking in the Drakensberg. In the summer months from October through to April, there is a good chance of thunderstorms, heavy rain and heat. In the Winter months from June to August, there is a good chance of snow, ice, freezing conditions and wind. Hikers must not attempt the Bell Traverse Hike without the correct equipment. Always prepare for the worst case scenario when it comes to weather conditions in the Drakensberg.
• Compounded Fatigue must also be taken into account on the hike. Hikers must be used to hiking for multiple days with a backpack. The backpack weight is between 12 and 15kg and will contain all your clothing, sleeping bag and food. The other factor influencing the compounded fatigue is the hiking distances covered per day and the altitude. We cover on average 14km a day at 3100m. There are also some severe inclines and declines on the hike. Organ Pipes Pass has an altitude gain of about 800m over 5km.

What the Bell Traverse hike entails

Basically the hike is a self sufficient hike that is guided by one of our Drakensberg experts. You will be required to carry all of your own gear in a backpack. We do have 75 and 65 litre backpacks and sleeping bags available to hire. You will also be required to help with a portion of the food rations. Your backpack should not weigh more than 15kg. We like to approach the hike from a purists perspective. This means we do supply porters on the trek. We bring along basic cooking and eating utensils and make some really scrumptious mountain cuisine on our gas cookers. Porters are available at an additional cost if you think you need them. The water we drink and cook with is sourced from the many mountain streams along the way. There are no toilets or showers on the route.

Highlights

• Spend 2 incredible nights in the 2 best caves in the Drakensberg. Rolands Cave on Day 1 and Twins Cave on Day 2.
• Hike the stunningly beautiful Bell Traverse. The route offers some of the best scenery in the Drakensberg.
• Enjoy a unique and memorable hiking experience-Drakensberg style. A purist way of hiking.
• A challenging hike that will leave you with a great sense of accomplishment