The Giants Cup Hiking Trail is part of the National Hiking Way. The self-guided 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 and Swimans (in the Drakensberg Gardens valley) and at Bushmans Nek. Spekboom Tours has introduced slackpacking to this 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.
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 : 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 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.
Duration: 4 days, 4 nights
Recommended fitness level: Moderate
Average daily walking distances: 13-18km/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 7875 pps. Min 2 persons
