Discover the Highest Point in South Africa

South Africa is one of the most stunning and diverse countries in the world, boasting a wide range of ecosystems that are home to thousands of different species. As well as its vast savannahs and veldt regions, South Africa also has an extensive network of mountains and peaks. Although not as high as some of the other mountains on the African continent, South Africa’s mountains still offer stunning views and challenging terrain. But what is the highest point in South Africa? Read on to find out!

What Is the Highest Point in South Africa?

The highest point in South Africa is Mafadi which reaches 11,320 feet. The peak is located right on the border between South Africa and Lesotho. Although it would be easy to assume that the highest point in the country is a mountain, that is not actually so. Although the most common definition of a mountain is that it must be more than 980 feet, in some cases it must also have a prominence of 7% or more relevant to its height. By this second definition, Mafadi is not considered to be a mountain. Instead, it is considered to be an extended ridge of Makheka in Lesotho which has a height of 11,358 feet.

The name Mafadi means “Mother of Fadi”. However, it is suggested that it was actually incorrectly named. In Africa, it is considered to be the norm to name mountains after a stream or river that springs from them. Therefore, many people believe that Mafadi should actually be called “Ntheledi”, the stream for which the mountain is a source. The meaning of Ntheledi is “makes me slip”.

Mafadi is situated in the center of the Drakensberg escarpment, which forms part of the Great Escarpment. The Great Escarpment is a vast topographical feature across a large portion of South Africa and features steep slopes and rift valleys. The highest point is Thabana Ntlenyana in Lesotho, with a height of 11,424 feet, making it the highest mountain in the southern region of Africa.

Wildlife Near the Highest Point in South Africa

As part of the Drakensberg escarpment, Mafadi is home to a fascinating range of species. Although the higher elevations become sparse and treeless, the lower region is rich with both plants and animals. The area both in and around Mafadi is home to several rare and endangered animals, including some which are endemic to the region.

The Drakensberg region features animals such as various species of antelopes, as well as rhinos, wildebeest, and baboons. There are also numerous species of birds, with the area boasting several hundred different species.

Climbing Mafadi

Tourism is rising in the area around Mafadi, with many of the peaks within the Drakensberg, both in Lesotho and South Africa, being popular with hikers and climbers. One of the most popular routes up Mafadi begins at the Injisuthi Nature Reserve. The route is known as the Corner-Leslie’s Loop and is a three or four-day hike, ending at Njesuthi campsite.

Although the Corner-Leslie’s Loop is one of the best-known routes, another popular, albeit more challenging, route is one that begins at the Njesuthi campsite. This route is in a more remote location and takes in more challenging terrain. Despite not being technically challenging to ascend, the route crosses rocky areas and is a long, uphill climb. Again, the route takes approximately three to four days, and the early part of the route involves a five-mile hike to an area known as the Marble Baths.

There are several campsites around the Drakensberg escarpment that can be used on the route to Mafadi, as well as some caves which are also often used as shelters by hikers. However, it’s important to check your route before setting off, as some areas or campsites may require a pass or permit, which is typically available for a small fee.

How Does Mafadi Compare to Other Mountains in Drakensberg?

Finally, you may be wondering how Mafadi compares to other mountains or peaks in the Drakensberg area. We’ve already mentioned Thabana Ntlenyana which is just slightly higher than Mafadi and is the highest mountain in the southern region of Africa and in Lesotho. However, Mafadi is generally considered to be the second-highest peak in the region. One of the other popular peaks in the area is Njesuthi which is 11,181 feet. Njesuthi and Mafadi are commonly ascended during the same excursion due to their close proximity to each other. Additionally, both the routes that we’ve mentioned take in the Njesuthi campsite.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © living-southafrica/Shutterstock.com