November Mini Traverse - Sentinel to Cathedral

Hi VE,

we are two guys planning a 5 day hike from Witsieshoek to Cathedral Peak Hotel the upcoming week (starting 9.11.).
Before we start we would like to pick your brains on some topics

- First and most important question: Is anyone around at the same time? We would be happy to meet some of you in person.

- What’s your best recommendation for buying food supplies on the way from Johannesburg to Witsiehoeks? Unfortunately we just lost our supplies to a pretty cunning gang of baboons.
- What’s the current weather situation like? Looks pretty rainy - as expected. But anything special that we should take into account?
- Thunderstorms. Should we expect them during November and what’s your best advice for surviving them in the Drakensberge?
- Safety. I couldn’t find any recent endeavors. So I’m assuming with the usual precautions we should be safe.
- Timing: Speaking of thunderstorms and safety - how do you go about setting up camp for the night? I read contradicting advice. Either set up early to be prepared for bad weather, or set up late to not be found by locals. What’s your take on that?


thank you already for all the tips in this forum!





 

Hi Svenson,

I'll try my best to contribute on some of your questions:

Current weather: 
It is my understanding that the water table on the escarpment is already quite high this early in the season - it therefore probably means a fair bit of that "wet sponge" feeling and soaked feet.

Thunderstorms:
Yes, they are most definitely present and should be factored into your planning. There are of course many general principles to follow to limit the risk of lighting strike - what works for me from a planning perspective (during 2 previous December GT's), is to start hiking early (e.g. 5AM) and reach your planned camping spot as early in the afternoon as possible (although possible throughout the day, the thunderstorms tends to be more frequent and build more energy as the day goes on). By a "safe" camping spot, it implies that you adhere to the "Safe zone" principle based on the height of the nearest cliff. See image below (source: The South African Mountain Leadership Guide)



Having knowledge of your planned route will help a great deal in identifying these suitable spots. General rule of thumb is to try and avoid using spots next to a frequently used pass heads (e.g. Ntonjelana Pass) and trails and you should be ok (from a security perspective). I'm never worried about meeting a local shepherd, even after having pitched camp, it is more to be out of sight from passing smugglers or livestock thieves during the night (which a well selected camp spot should offer you).

Hope you have an epic hike! 
 

Hi Supertranp,

thank you so much for the quick reply.
Is it generally hard to find a good spot to set up tent?

one other question: do we need to take precautions regarding animals that are trying to get our delicious food? Is it safe to take it in the tent with you, or would you recommend something else?

Hi, I am guiding the same hike also starting 10/11. Give me a call on 0836693028 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. If you want you can walk with us.