Amphitheatre Backpackers - Backpacker accommodation in the Northern Drakensberg

Amphitheatre Backpackers is situated at the top of Oliviershoek which has a spectacular panoramic view of the entire Northern Drakensberg, stretching from the Amphitheatre all the way to Cathkin Peak. It are also the highest backpacking hostel in Kwazulu-Natal. Behind the century-old stone cottage rises Mpokolane Peak a 2hr hike from the doorstep. The reserve has a wonderful variety of indigenous flora and bird life, including those rarer species like Cape vultures, Black Eagles, Secretary birds and many others. Some animals that you are likely to encounter are: Buck, Jackal and Baboon and some of the more elusive smaller cats like Genets and Caracal. There are also rock paintings and a petrified forest in the reserve. 

The Amphitheatre Backpackers hostel itself is comprised of 2 main buildings built over 100 years ago from local sandstone blocks. The place has a rustic charm and even in winter is cosy and homely with roaring log fires, wood stoves and breathtaking views. For those who need a dip on a warm day there is a reservoir filled with fresh bore hole water and there are walks straight from the doorstep into the reserve.

As Amphitheatre Backpackers is far from the cities there is no problem with crime and vehicles and possessions are secure. There is also a safe for valuables if required.

In winter there is no rain and the days are clear and warm, perfect for hiking. Evenings and early mornings are cold, but the hostel is heated and extra blankets are provided. Summer is very hot, but in the afternoons there are brief thunderstorms. Evenings are thankfully cool and pleasant.

One of the buildings consists of a bar and restaurant, whilst the other has two fully-equipped, self-catering kitchens, ablutions, private lounge, dining room and dormitories. There are also double rooms set apart from the main buildings. Wooden cabins and Sotho hut built in the traditional manner (cow manure and mud!) For those who wish to stay in tents, there is a limitless amount of space. Campers have free reign of the hostel and can utilise all the facilities, and remember the showers are STEAMING hot!!

The Bar is made from coloured bottles and is fully licensed. We sell meals for vegetarians and meat eaters, so those who do not wish to self-cater can treat themselves. We have artifacts for sale which include grass work, ceramics, beadwork, and shields. These are produced by the local community. For those who wish to contact home Amphitheare Backpackers have internet available too.