The Giant’s Cup Hiking Trail in the Southern Drakensberg is part of the National Hiking Way. The self-guided slackpack hike follows a well-established and clearly marked trail that runs southwards from Sani Pass in the north to Bushmans Nek in the south, the full trail being approximately 60km in length. It falls within the Ukahlamba Wilderness Area (a World Heritage Site) and is administered by KZN Wildlife who provide 5 overnight huts along the route – at Pholela (Cobham valley), Mzimkhulwana, Winterhoek, Swimans (in the Drakensberg Gardens valley) and at Bushmans Nek.
Spekboom Tours has introduced slackpacking to the Giant’s Cup trail for those who would like to walk the trail during the day and stay at comfortable lodges at night where all meals are provided for, and opens up this spectacular trail to people who may not be able, or want to carry 5 day’s worth of camping gear and food on their backs.
The trail can be tailored according to time and fitness restraints. Hikes are best in spring and autumn months when the weather is predictable and mostly fine and warm. Summer seasons have frequent thunderstorms and winters are very cold with scheduled fire break burning.
Flora and Fauna of the Southern Drakensberg: Most of the hiking trail traverses treeless mountains and Themeda grasslands, with a few scattered protea species and patches of montane bush in the protected river valleys.
Many animal species have adapted to these extreme conditions and are endemic to the area. None are plentiful but all are interesting. Antelope species that you may encounter include Eland, Reedbuck, Rhebuck and Oribi.
There are about 200 species of birds in the Southern Drakensberg region, including the endangered Bearded Vulture, Jackal buzzard, Black and Martial eagles and Secretary birds. Smaller birds such as sugarbirds, sunbirds and flycatchers are endemic to the area. Others are summer migrants to the region such as the blue and wattled cranes while several species including the fairy flycatcher migrate down the berg from Lesotho during winter.
Giant’s Cup Slackpack Drakensberg info:
Duration: 4 days, 4 nights
Recommended fitness level: Moderate
Average daily walking distances: 13-20km/d
Accommodation types: comfortable guesthouses, lodges
Inclusive of accommodation, all meals (dinner, bed and breakfast and a packed lunch for 4 days), Eight transfers to the trail start and finish each day
Price: From R 9500 pps. Min 4 persons
Read more about the Giant’s Cup hiking trail here…
What is slackpacking?
Slackpacking is a luxurious spin on traditional thru-hiking or backpacking that allows you to experience nature without the crushing weight of a heavy pack. Instead of hauling a heavy pack containing your tent, sleeping bag, stove, and multiple days of food, you hike with only a light daypack containing the essentials—like water, a rain jacket, and some snacks.
The heavy lifting is handled for you. After a full day of hiking, you arrive at a comfortable guesthouse, lodge, or cabin, where your bags are already waiting. Instead of pitching a tent and eating dehydrated meals, you get to enjoy a hot shower, delicious carefully prepared meals, and a soft bed.
This style of hiking makes long-distance trails accessible to a broader range of fitness levels, families, and older hikers who love the outdoors but want to avoid physical strain. Slackpacking allows adventurers to focus entirely on the scenery and good company rather than physical burden of the journey.
Have a look at some of our current trails that are available such as the popular Clarens San Traverse, Wakkerstroom Wonder or Zululand Rover and start planning your next trip today!
Why choose Spekboom Tours for your next trip?
We know every traveller is different, which is why we design our trekking tours around your unique expectations. Julia takes time to create personalised routes that take you beyond the usual tourist paths, offering a holiday experience that feels effortless from the moment you start planning.
Each itinerary is crafted with care, focusing on lesser‑known trails and memorable landscapes to give you a journey that feels both refreshing and rewarding. We match every tour to the interests, pace, and preferences of our guests, ensuring you enjoy the best possible adventure without the stress of organising it yourself. Whether you’re seeking quiet nature escapes, new cultural discoveries, or something in between, we’re here to shape a trek that fits you perfectly. Get in touch today and let us help you plan an unforgettable experience.