This Integrated Management Plan (IMP) for uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site (UDP WHS) is the primary and overarching management document developed in 2011. The IMP forms the framework within which the Park will be managed and developed towards the achievement of its management objectives, derived in collaboration with the protected area's stakeholders during August 2011 to January 2012.

The protected area management planning process has been designed to meet the statutory requirements of the World Heritage Convention Act, the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act and other relevant legislation.

The protected area management planning process requires participation from the protected area’s stakeholders, the general public and specialists during the various stages of plan development and implementation. Although the management plan and its sub-components are five-year planning documents, an annual review process will ensure an active adaptive management planning approach.

A long-term business approach has also been introduced to ensure that the protected area’s management objectives are operationalised and reflected through an Annual Plan of Operation (APO). A Business Plan will, at the same time, actively pursue additional and improved funding and income towards the achievement of the natural and cultural heritage conservation objectives of the UDP WHS over the next five years.