The Mini Traverse, also known as the Northern Traverse is regarded as one of South Africas top hikes. The hike covers a distance of between 60-75km over a 4-6 day period depending on who you go with. We like to do the hike over the 6 day period as the route becomes more scenic. This also means that the distance will be slightly longer but a better experience overall.
Best time to hike the Drakensberg Mini Traverse
There is no better time than the present! The hike can be done throughout the year but the best time to take it on would be the April-May period as it is just coming out the rainy season but still warm enough as it is just before the winter period. With that being said the November to March period you can expect electrical and rain storms in the afternoons and evening as well as thick mist during the day. From June to October would be the winter period which can be a bit chilly as well as shorter days as the sun sets earlier and rises later. Snow can also be experienced during this period.
How fit do I need to be for this trek?
The definition of fitness can be interpreted in many different ways so to make it a bit easier we recommended that you should be comfortable with walking 12km+ per day on uneven terrain with a weighted backpack of around 16kgs.
