The uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, in the northern part of the mountain range known affectionately by locals as "The Berg", offers some of the most dramatic scenery in South Africa. Far removed from the visions that spring to mind when you think of Africa, this is a region of snow-capped mountains (in winter) and lush green hills (in summer). It's the perfect setting for Montusi Mountain Lodge, an upmarket destination with uninterrupted views of the cliffs and peaks, and the iconic Amphitheatre. Montusi's 1000-hectare estate has been rehabilitated over the past 15 years to become a haven for indigenous birds and antelope.
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Sixteen individually designed chalets are well spaced throughout the gardens, each with jaw-dropping views. The suites – Garden (10), Mountain (2) and Family (4) – vary in size (in increasing order) and amenities but come standard with TVs and gas fireplaces for chilly winter nights. Some have private patios. Each chalet has an en-suite bathroom with a bath and shower. There are also a couple of privately owned self-catering cottages on the estate, with up to four bedrooms.
Waking up to the Amphitheatre. Every suite faces the Drakensberg's most iconic escarpment, and on a clear morning the scale of it is almost absurd
Ask for one of the Mountain Suites if you can. They're more spacious and modern than the Garden Suites, with a separate lounge and a private patio that makes the most of that Amphitheatre view.
This is more a proper mountain lodge than it is a hotel — there are no telephones in the rooms and children aren't permitted in the restaurant after 8pm.
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
Montusi Mountain Lodge can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made South Africa trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended South Africa trips featuring Montusi Mountain Lodge or get advice and suggestions from one of our South Africa specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Montusi Mountain Lodge start from around $210, or US$210, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
Hiking or walking, driving or climbing, enjoy the country’s most dramatic, soaring scenery.
