Cathedral Peak security

Haven't heard of any problems along the Kwakwatsi, though the shepherds certainly use the valley, and rustlers using the Bell Traverse / Mlambonja Pass also pass along this way. I'd say it's fine to camp in the valley taking the standard precautions listed here .

If possible I would camp as far up the valley as possible, near the summit of Mlambonja Butress - away from the main trails. Another good alternative is Easter Cave. Though the shepherds know about it, it's harder for them to steal stuff than from a tent. In January this cave is likely to be wet though.

Camping between Castle Buttress and Cleft is the best place in the area I reckon, unless you opt for Roland's Cave. Enjoy!

I've just finished a hike along the main smuggling routes: Ndedema Gorge, Tlanyaku Pass and Smugglers Pass linking up with the Organ Pipes trail (Thuthumi Ridge).

There are very few fresh signs of the smugglers (fresh footprints, litter and campfires) and apart from a Basutho shepherd on the escarpment, we did not encounter any smugglers. Though smuggling activities continue throughout the year these days, there is definitely a quiet period currently - but this will pick up sharply again soon with the upcoming dagga harvest. Basutho's on social visits still use the Camel route regularly, though they pose a very low threat.

Poacher's and Schoongezicht Caves currently have very overgrown approach routes and show little sign of recent use by the smugglers. Currently they are quiet, ideal overnight spots (but NEVER leave your equipment unattended in them). Continue to use the Gravel Shelter with caution as it is an ideal shelter for them along the trail.

Eroded sections on the trails continue to erode slowly with heavy use. Some of the switch backs on the contour path above Ndedema Gorge that have been bypassed by shortcuts are slowly growing closed and the shortcuts will show signs of bad erosion in time.

The lookout hut on Thuthumi Ridge has not been occupied by the army for some time and a section of the roof over the back room is missing.

It is no longer safe to leave cars on the top of Mike's Pass. If you intend hiking from there rather pay R40 at Didima camp and get dropped off.

The smuggling parties can be armed and there are reports of shoot-outs between rival parties (trying to steal the good from each other) and the authorities. It is rumoured that some smugglers have some form of military background as they handle their guns rather well. The skeleton of a smuggler was supposedly found by hikers on the Camel route last year.

They are also kitted with mobile phones which allows them to communicate with the locals at the bottom that they are delivering to. This makes it harder for the authorities to catch them.

All in all, I have not heard of any recent problems experienced by hikers. The smugglers seem intent on their business and generally wont pose a direct threat (though they are opportunistic). Do not be put off going into these areas! They remain among the Berg's finest! Be extra cautious though in the upcoming peak smuggling months, or put off your trip to these areas until the winter or after.

Hey Scag. It's been a long time since I have been to Twins, but I recall seeing that exact same thing in the main Twins cave while I passed on the way to Twins annex. I am sure that a couple of others who have been there recently will be able to verify that it has been around for a while also.

I will find out whether there are plans from the Office in Charge of Cathedral Peak to move it out of the cave in the near future, as I personally feel that it is inappropriate. Have a very special place in my heart for the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, even though my work takes me all over the province of KZN (more often than not to Richard's Bay... )

Hi Scag,

just to reitterate something which I've mentioned elsewhere: does the Bell Traverse have security issues? Yes. Does it mean one should avoid the area? No.

How safe is it?
1. I'm not aware of any security incidents that took place at Twins Cave.

2. A few years back some hikers were allegedly mugged at gunpoint in Bell Cave.

3. The Bell Traverse is a cattle rustling route, and can be used for dagga smuggling too.

4. Every time I'm on the Bell Traverse I see signs of Basotho, such as carcases of cattle, litter and fires in the caves (in Twins and the annexe cave). I have personally met Basotho at Twins Cave, but it was a friendly encounter. I've heard about encounters with armed Zulus looking for the Basotho that just stole their cattle.

So I wouldn't say it's entirely safe, but I would still do it and simply take every precaution I can. During the day you are as safe as you would be anywhere on the escarpment or on a smuggling route. If there are problems, they will typically be at night.

* Standard precautions detailed here .

* Avoid sleeping in the main Twins Cave if you can. The annexe cave is somewhat better (but they do use that too). You could use Bellevue Cave, further up on Mlambonja Pass, or even Easter Cave. The latter 2 caves would give you more privacy.

* I've heard references to creative and secluded spots along the Bell Traverse where you can pitch a tent.

Hope this helps.

You won't find any reference on any of the maps to Bellevue Cave. It is a small little cave on the pass itself, which offers some fair shelter, but is not often used, since Twins offers far more room, and shelter...

Thanks for reporting back Scag, this adds much value to this forum. Too bad you didn't make it to Twins.