Bergville Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Bergville? Read this comprehensive travel guide to discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Bergville

Nestled in the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg region of Kwazulu-Natal province lies the idyllic town of Bergville. Boasting a picturesque landscape, rich cultural heritage and extensive leisure amenities, Bergville is the ideal destination for eco-tourists, adventurous couples and families alike. In this travel guide to Bergville, we explore the best places to visit, things to do, and local customs that are sure to make your trip unforgettable.

List of Places to Visit in Bergville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Located in the heart of the Drakensberg Mountains, Bergville is home to many sites of cultural significance. Some of the most popular historical monuments worth checking out in the region include;

  • The Battlefields Route: traces the footsteps of several historical battles fought within the region from 1838-1896.
  • Spioenkop Nature Reserve and Battlefield: chronicling the famous 1900 Battle of Spioenkop.
  • The Bergville Museum: showcasing artifacts from the region’s rich history, including traditional Zulu artefacts, weaponry, and clothing.

Natural Attractions of Bergville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bergville’s magnificent landscape is what draws many visitors here from across the world each year. Here are some of the must-visit natural attractions in the area;

  • Drakensberg Amphitheatre: offering panoramic views over the Northern Drakensberg mountain range.
  • Champagne Castle: the second-highest peak in the Drakensberg Mountains provides equally stunning views.
  • Nature Reserves: Royal Natal National Park, Spioenkop Nature Reserve, Tugela Falls are popular with visitors seeking outdoor adventures such as hiking, bird-watching, rock-climbing, and more.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bergville

With its mountain and riverine setting, Bergville is a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers. Some of the most popular trails in the area include;

  • Amphitheatre Hike: taking you along Tugela River and up to the Tugela Falls.
  • Khanti Ridge Trail: a challenging trek for experienced hikers with the option to do an overnight hike.
  • Thukela Gorge Trail: a steep trail that will take you down into the valley to the foot of the Tugela Falls.

Best Things to Do in Bergville: Activities and Tours

There’s never a dull moment for visitors to Bergville. Here are some of our top picks for the best things to do in the area;

  • Scenic Helicopter Tours: gets you up close to nature and the magnificent surroundings of Bergville from above
  • Horse Riding: ride through the scenic routes of Drakensberg’s landscapes
  • Fishing: Tugela and Little Tugela rivers that run through Bergville are popular for trout fishing.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: soar over the Drakensberg mountains and capture stunning views during the sunrise and sunset.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bergville

Day 1: Arrival in Bergville - Check into your accommodation and explore the surrounding area.

Day 2-3: Outdoor Adventures - Head out for a day of hiking or biking along one of the scenic trails in the Drakensberg Mountains.

Day 4: Cultural Excursions - Visit one of the many historical sites and museums in the surrounding area.

Day 5: Scenic Flight - Take a helicopter tour and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Drakensberg Mountains.

Day 6: Horse riding or Fishing - Indulge in a day of fishing or horseback riding around the surrounding area.

Day 7: Departure - Check out of your accommodation and depart for your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Bergville

Must-Try Dishes

The culinary scene in Bergville is strongly influenced by its location and rich cultural heritage. Some must-try dishes to sample include;

  • Braai Meat: a South African BBQ tradition, perfect for enjoying with friends and family.
  • Isidudu(fresh Pumpkin Leaves): a local dish often served as a dip or side dish made from fresh Pumpkin leaves.
  • Mala Mogodu (tripe) : a popular traditional dish among the Zulu tribe

Local Beverages

No trip to Bergville is complete without trying some of the local drinks made from fresh fruit and vegetables. Some of the popular local beverages include-

  • Amarula Cream Liqueur: made from fermented Marula fruits and regarded as one of South Africa’s most loved liqueurs.
  • Rooibos Tea: a tea brewed from the Rooibos plant and known for its health benefits.
  • Stellenbosch Wine: known for producing some of the best wines in South Africa, including top-quality Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, and Pinotage.

Where to Stay in Bergville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bergville has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Some of the options available include guesthouses, B&Bs, hostels, caravan parks, and hotels. Popular choices include-

  • Antbear Eco Lodge
  • Drakensberg Mountain Retreat
  • Sandford Park Lodge

What to Buy in Bergville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Bergville can take home a souvenir to remember their time in the area. A visit to the local markets and shops is a great place to look for authentic African handicrafts, handwoven baskets, traditional clothing, and unique jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Bergville

Bergville’s cultural heritage is deeply ingrained in the Zulu tribe’s customs and traditions. Visitors are encouraged to learn about the different customs before visiting by taking a trip to the local cultural center or Zulu homesteads.

Best Time to Visit Bergville

The best time to visit Bergville is between March to May and September to November when the temperatures are more moderate, and the crowds are fewer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bergville

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Carry plenty of water, especially if engaging in any outdoor activities or hiking.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting the rural areas, especially the traditional homesteads.

Don’t:

  • Litter the environment.
  • Take photographs of people and places without permission from the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bergville

Bergville is generally considered safe for tourists. However, visitors are advised to take precautions like avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuables secure.

Health in Bergville

Malaria is not prevalent in the Drakensberg region. It is still advisable to take measures to avoid mosquito bites by wearing protective clothing, mosquito nets, or taking prescribed medication.

Getting to Bergville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bergville

The nearest airport to Bergville is the King Shaka International Airport in Durban, located approximately 3 hours’ drive from the area.

Bus Stations Near Bergville

Bergville is well connected to other cities in South Africa through a network of bus services such as Greyhound, Intercape, and Citiliner that operate from Johannesburg, Durban, and Pretoria.

Other Options

Guests can hire a car or a self-drive rental to get to Bergville, offering flexibility and convenience during their stay.

How to Get Around in Bergville

It is best to hire a car or bike to get around Bergville and explore its surroundings. Alternatively, visitors can hire a taxi or use public transport options like buses and minivans.

Where to Go Next from Bergville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

A trip to Bergville can be extended with a visit to some of the nearby destinations, including the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, Clarens, and Harrismith.

Conclusion

Bergville is a nature lover’s delight with its vast natural beauty, adventurous outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage. With this comprehensive travel guide, you are now equipped to make the best of your holiday in Bergville, South Africa.