description Drakensberg Escarpment Overview
The Drakensberg Escarpment is a dramatic basalt cliff system stretching across South Africa and Lesotho. It rises sharply above the Highveld plateau reaching elevations exceeding three thousand meters. This formation contains significant ancient San rock art sites and represents a crucial geological feature of Southern Africa. Geologists, archaeologists, and hikers find it particularly noteworthy.
insights Ranking position
Drakensberg Escarpment ranks #1 of 54 in the Escarpment ranking, ahead of Mogollon Escarpment.
help Drakensberg Escarpment FAQ
Where is the Drakensberg Escarpment located?
The escarpment stretches across the eastern part of South Africa and the highlands of Lesotho. It forms a massive, steep divide separating the high central Highveld plateau from the lower coastal regions.
What kind of rock makes up the Drakensberg Escarpment?
The upper portions of the dramatic cliff faces are primarily composed of basalt. These layers of basalt sit atop older layers of sandstone, which were formed by ancient lava flows.
What historical artifacts can be found in the Drakensberg mountains?
The region contains one of the largest and most dense concentrations of ancient San (Bushman) rock art in the world. There are thousands of painted sites hidden within the sandstone caves and overhangs.
Is the Drakensberg Escarpment a UNESCO World Heritage site?
Yes, the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was recognized both for its stunning natural beauty and its cultural significance due to the abundance of ancient rock art.
explore Explore More
Similar to Drakensberg Escarpment
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
