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The Sentinel Mont-Aux-Sources trail can be done either as a day trail or a 2 day Backpacking trip
and is probably the easiest way of getting to the "Top of the Berg". To reach the Sentinel
trail and Mont-Aux-Sources, drive through the Free State town of Phuthadijhaba and onto the
Witsieshoek Mountain Resort. Sign in at the gate. You can either stay at the resort before you do
the trail, or go straight to the Sentinel car park.
Remember to take rain gear and warm clothes with. Even in mid summer temperatures can plummet
suddenly and fog is very common here. Sign in at the car park and you are off. The trail is
clearly marked. One of your first stops is a little detour from the main trail to see the fabulous
Amphitheater from the side. The view from this point is spectacular!
After another 2 to 3 hours hiking you will reach the famous chain ladders. There are in fact two
sections up to the top. Take a break when reaching the top as the views are really worth it! From
here the trail flattens out and runs along the Tugela river which at this point is merely a small
stream. After another half an hour to an hour you reach the Tugela falls. Here the river plunges
hundreds of meters down the rocks of the amphitheater into the Royal Natal National Park. This
makes for a good lunch spot.
For those doing the day trail, its just a matter of heading back the route that you came from. For
those that took all their backpacking gear with, you can camp either here or head off to the east
into the next valley and camp there. There are streams for water everywhere. Be careful of thieves
at night. There have been many incidents, and they like to come at night, slit open the tent and
take your stuff, especially boots. They seem to prefer windy nights when its difficult to hear
them. It seems as if they come from Lesotho.
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Start early and be prepared for any weather even if the weather is fine when setting off. The
Drakensberg with its 3000 meters altitude has its own climate that changes very fast. The trail is
very scenic and not difficult even when carrying a backpack and tent. If it has rained, some parts
of the trail can get a bit slippery. The chain ladders are great fun and the views from the top
are stunning and well worth the effort getting up there. As mentioned before, if you are camping
beware of thieves at night.
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