Namahadi
KwaDuma
Murch Point
Mafadi
Seweweekspoort Peak
TRAIL
Namahadi
Province : Free State
Peak Height : 3291m GPS : 28 ° 46 ’ 13.1 ″ S , 28 ° 48 ’ 25.6 ″ E
This peak is located in the Drakensberg Mountains near Phutaditjaba . For many doing the non-stop challenge , this will be the first big mountain challenge after the four northern-most peaks , and people often think that it will be easy after having completed those four peaks , but Namahadi is a totally different beast , and has been responsible for stopping many non-stop challenge attempts . Proper planning is needed for this approach . No prior access arrangements are needed , but you will need to pay the Witsieshoek toll fee , either at the toll gate or at the park entrance , as well as the park permit fees at the Sentinel Car Park . Also , photographic proof of your mountain rescue register entry and payment receipt may be requested for verification after your trip .
Official Challenge : The road leading up the mountain to the Sentinel Car Park is in a bad state , so please be prepared for this , and high-clearance vehicles are recommended . A different approach is allowed , such as the Namahadi Pass starting from the Fika Patso region , but will likely take more time , and you will need to provide sufficient tracking data afterwards .
KwaDuma
Province : Eastern Cape
Peak Height : 3019m GPS : 30 ° 28 ’ 00.1 ″ S , 28 ° 09 ’ 21.3 ″ E
It is quite a drive to get to the rural village of Tabase , and Kwaduma is very secluded , so it is sensible to inform others before you set out . It is absolutely beautiful , but it is a big mountain ascent , and not to be underestimated . Also , you cross community lands , so please be respectful . No prior access arrangements are needed . Please take note that in the past some safety concerns existed , sometimes due to stray dogs in both the village or mountains , or due to stock theft in the area , so strangers wandering around at night may look suspicious . It is therefore advisable to call ahead to the police station to inform them of your plans .
Official Challenge : We advise that you park your vehicle at the Tabase Police Station and try to arrange a drop-off at the peak , but you may drive up to the following coordinates : 30 ° 30 ’ 41.5 ” S , 28 ° 16 ’ 25.0 ″ E .
Murch Point
Province : Northern Cape Peak Height : 2156m GPS : 31 ° 41 ’ 36.0 ″ S , 24 ° 30 ’ 48.1 ″ E
Murch Point is located on private land near the towns of Middelburg , Richmond and Nieu-Bethesda , in the very southern part of the Northern Cape . The peak must only be approached on foot across the property that we have permission to access . Please arrange access at least 10 days in advance with the land manager .
Official Challenge : Download the map of the approach to this peak , as it is the only way allowed , and can be discussed in more detail with the land manager . Also download , complete and return the signed indemnity form to the challenge administrator once access has been granted .
Images : Gerda van Niekerk , Stephan Griesel & Terence Vrugtman
Mafadi
Province : KwaZulu-Natal Peak Height : 3451m GPS : 29 ° 12 ’ 12.5 ″ S , 29 ° 21 ’ 30.7 ″ E
This is not only the highest peak in KZN , but also in the whole of South Africa , and you can expect a strong challenge on this approach . The peak is located in the Drakensberg Mountains near Injisuthi and Giants Castle . No prior access arrangements are needed , but you will need to pay the park permit fees . Also , the mountain rescue register must be completed and signed at the relevant KZN Wildlife office .
Official Challenge : Any mountain pass may be used for the ascent and descent , but ensure you are familiar with the gate entry times , which differ depending on the season , and it is advisable to phone ahead to announce your plans . Always pay the required permit fees and respect the mountain .
Seweweekspoort Peak
Province : Western Cape Peak Height : 2325m GPS : 33 ° 23 ’ 53.8 ″ S , 21 ° 22 ’ 03.7 ″ E
This peak offers a stunning view , but you will have to work for it . The climb is steep and the terrain challenging , but the reward is worth it . The summit approach can be tricky , so please be careful . You do cross private land on your way to the summit , so go to the challenge website for the link to a beautifully detailed website compiled by Jan Viljoen that has all the info and guidelines to arrange access . Contact must be established with Jan at least 10 days in advance to give him an indication of your proposed dates and plans .
Official Challenge : The peak may be approached from the north or south . If this is the challenge starting point of your challenge , the clock starts as you leave your car parked at the old gate on the public road near 33 ° 21 ’ 59.0 ″ S , 21 ° 21 ’ 54.0 ” E when coming from the north . If starting from the south , the clock starts from the parking near 33 ° 27 ’ 24.5 ″ S , 21 ° 23 ’ 07.0 ″ E .
Want to Tackle the 9 Peaks Challenge ?
The 9 Peaks Challenge is open to all and there are various categories to choose from . To compete for a Fastest Known Time ( FKT ) in any category , a list of challenge rules apply . The clock starts at the foot of the first peak and stops on the summit of the last peak . Alternatively , you can set out to simply do it for fun , at your own pace , in which case ‘ common sense rules ’ apply . Make sure you track your progress , and if you can prove you ’ ve completed the challenge , your name will be added to the Wall of Honour on the official 9 Peaks website .
To find out more , go to www . ninepeaks . co . za , or contact the challenge administrator at saninepeaks @ gmail . com or on 081 348 8409 .
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