Mafadi

The journey begins at the Injisuthi camp, where you face an immediate, steep climb known as Heartbreak Hill. This is a gruelling introduction that tests your fitness early. The route typically involves navigating through the Injisuthi valley before ascending one of the mountain passes, such as Corner Pass or Judge Pass. These are not technical climbs in the mountaineering sense, but they are physically punishing, involving significant elevation gain over loose rock and steep gradients. You will spend your nights in caves or tents, as there are no facilities on the escarpment. The terrain is unforgiving, and the remoteness means you must carry all your supplies, including water filtration and warm gear, as the temperature can plummet without warning.

Once you reach the top of the escarpment, the landscape shifts to a vast, rolling plateau. The walk to the summit of Mafadi is relatively flat compared to the ascent, but it is long and exposed. You are essentially walking along the border between South Africa and Lesotho, with little to distinguish the two. The summit itself is a subtle rise, often obscured by cloud or mist. It is a place of quiet, expansive views rather than vertical drama. Because the area is so flat and featureless, navigation is the primary challenge. In poor visibility, it is very easy to lose your bearings. Stay alert to the weather, as the escarpment is prone to sudden, violent storms that can make the return journey treacherous.

The descent is often the most dangerous part of the trip. Many hikers choose to descend via Leslie's Pass, which is notoriously steep, rocky, and technical. It requires careful foot placement and can be punishing on the knees after days of hiking. If the weather turns, this pass becomes significantly more difficult. Once you reach the valley floor, you still have a long walk back to the Injisuthi camp, often involving river crossings that can be hazardous if the water levels are high. Do not underestimate the final day; the fatigue from the previous days of climbing makes the final kilometres feel much longer than they are. Ensure you have enough food and energy reserves to complete the trek safely back to your vehicle.