Monk's Cowl Nature Reserve

Monk&#39;s Cowl Nature Reserve is in Northern Drakensberg, South Africa.

Understand
Monks Cowl Nature Reserve is named after the peak between Cathkin Peak and Champagne Castle. It is part of the Maloti-Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site and it also the entry point to the Mlambonja and Mdedelo Wilderness Area.

Get in
You can choose to rent a car either from Johannesburg or Durban to get to the reserve. Drive slowly and keep your eyes on the road. It is not recommended to drive around late in the night because of potholes, darkness due to low number of street lights.

Fees and permits
Entrance gates to the reserve are open daily between 6AM - 6PM.

See
Monk's Cowl Nature Reserve offers a great number of hiking trails with beautiful views of the mountains and valleys.

Do
Monk's Cowl is an ideal place for camping, hiking, day walks. There is a Mountain Rescue Register that must be completed before you start your hike. Make sure you sign out again when you return. It is advisable to get well equipped because the weather can change suddenly and become very cold.



Camping
Camping facilities are available within the reserve.The campsite has two ablution blocks in which one has showers with hot and cold water while the other has only toilets. Fires are not allowed due to the danger associated with out of control fires, so you have to bring along your hiking stoves. You can book campsites and caves directly with the camp office.

Stay safe
People on the trails are very friendly and they will offer advice if you need it. All shops and restaurants require a mask and sanitizer spray before entry.