Dear Friends
2026 has begun! We have a brand-new Reception and Shop and a few other exciting projects planned for the year. As forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, continues to gain traction in the wellness space, we’re introducing a secluded forest sauna pod near the spa. The pathway will extend to a quiet clearing where guests can pause, reconnect, and fully absorb the restorative benefits of nature. We’ve also widened the trail to the waterfall, making cold plunges more accessible and inviting.
As our work in the community deepens and we witness meaningful progress on the ground, we’ve launched a new fundraiser to help ensure the long-term sustainability of our projects. A few places are still available, and we would be delighted to have you join us – please do let us know if you’re interested.
The shop
The reception
The Reception
14-17 May – 3 days – 3 stays – 4 education
More than a decade after our first Big5Hike for education, we’ve reimagined the experience. This year, we’re introducing a slack-packing journey that blends moderate trekking with varied accommodation, meaningful moments to connect, and the chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of the most vulnerable in our community.
We’ll arrive at Sungubala Camp on Thursday, 14 May, where we’ll enjoy a spit-braai, fireside chats, and the rare privilege of being immersed in the remoteness of this eco-camp. On Friday, 15 May, with bags packed and ready for transfer, we’ll hike via the Natural Pool, along Trilby Hill, and down to All Out Adventures for a well-earned burger lunch and an adventure ride. Those who have walked far enough can be transferred to Montusi Lodge, while the rest will descend through the Gorge and up to the Lodge in time for sundowners around the dam, followed by a gorgeous dinner with expansive views of the Amphitheatre and surrounding mountains.
On Saturday, 16 May, after a hearty breakfast and bags packed once more, we’ll hike into the valley, past the Pecan Grove and along the Acacia Meander, returning to The Cavern. Our final night will be a celebration with friends – warm hospitality, a fine selection of South African wines, and wholesome fare to round off the journey.
Participation is limited to 40 people, with each hiker required to raise R12 000 for The Royal Drakensberg Education Trust. Regretfully, single accommodation is not available due to limited space at Sungubala and Montusi.
Each hiker will receive:
- Three nights of catered accommodation
- An adventure ride
- Bag transfers between resorts
- A Carte Collection jacket
We have two corporate sponsorship opportunities available; one at R75,000 and another at R50,000. To secure your participation, please contact Megan at info@royal-drakensberg.org.za We would be delighted to discuss how your support can make a meaningful impact.
Celebrating 85 years of Many Happy Returns
From the days of gravel roads, a trusty Lister diesel generator and guests arriving with their own booze, much has changed over the years. While we’ve happily said goodbye to lunch loaf, the true favourites remain; Cavern crunchies, Cavern coffee and our much-loved Sunday Braai Lunch.
Approaching The Cavern
The road Near Natural Pool
To mark this special 85th milestone, we’ll be giving away a two-night stay every month. Simply visit to be entered. The first draw takes place on 5 April, with winners announced on the 5th of each month thereafter.
With wonderful seasonal offers on the horizon, now is the perfect time to plan your next stay and be part of the celebration.
Specials
Win a Stay
If you’re unable to join us in person, you can still be part of the impact through our upcoming charity draws on 30 March, 30 June and 30 November.
By donating R100 per month to support our projects, you’ll be entered into a draw to win a stay at each of the Carte resorts:
- The Cavern
- Montusi Mountain Lodge
- Sungubala Eco Camp
It’s a meaningful way to give back – with the added possibility of a memorable mountain escape.
Did You Know?
Thamnocalamus tessellatus is a delicate, streamside bamboo found only in the Drakensberg. This rare species grows in cool, misty valleys, forming dense thickets that provide vital shelter and nesting sites for birds. At The Cavern it can be seen below Cannibal Cavern, at Sungubala Camp, in the forest beneath Echo Cave and in the garden.
Its leaves reveal a beautiful cross-hatched pattern when viewed through a magnifying glass, a detail reflected in its name. Thamnocalamus means “bushy reed,” while tessellatus refers to the tiled, rectangular veining of the leaves. Unlike the towering Asian bamboos, this is a small, hardy mountain species uniquely adapted to high-altitude conditions.
Even more remarkable is its flowering cycle. The Drakensberg bamboo flowers in rare, synchronised events roughly every 45 years, a phenomenon known as gregarious flowering, where plants bloom simultaneously across wide geographic areas. Recorded flowering in KwaZulu-Natal occurred around 1908, 1953, and again in 1998/99, making each event a significant natural milestone.
A Final Word
As Easter approaches, we hope it brings a season of renewed hope. Here’s to making moments that matter, being there for the weary, and offering a helping hand where we can. Take care, and until your next visit, we send our warmest wishes,
The Cavern Family