Minimum Impact – Leave No Trace environmental principals by hikers

The "Minimum Impact - Leave No Trace" environmental principals by hikers applicable to the Maloti-Drakensberg Park.

Plan ahead & prepare

Know the rules and regulations of the Park.
Prepare for extreme weather and emergencies in terms of clothing, equipment and food.
Plan your route and use a hiking map, a compass or GPS to assist you.
Hike in groups of between 4 and 8, but no more than 12 in the wilderness area.
Complete the mountain rescue register correctly and in detail.
Be aware of the security risk on the escarpment or in Lesotho and do not leave your equipment unattended.

Travel & camp on durable surfaces

Walk on existing trails and camp on durable surfaces such as rock, gravel or dry grass.
Camp 100m or 5 minutes walk from the trail and water.
Good campsites are found and not made.

Dispose of waste properly

If you packed it in, then please pack it out!
Bury solid human waste, hygiene products and toilet paper at least 15cm deep.
Wash and defecate 100 m or 5 minutes walk away from water, campsites, caves, and trails.
Use biodegradable toilet paper and washing products.

Leave what you find

Take only pictures, leave only your footprints!
Protect and preserve our cultural heritage.
No camping is allowed in caves containing rock art or artifacts.
Leave plants and other natural objects as you found them. DO NOT deface rocks with graffiti.
DO NOT build cairns or other structures.

Minimise camp fire impacts

Fires are not allowed in the Park except in designated camping sites.
Fires and the collection of firewood devastate the environment.
Use lightweight camping sloves for cooking and gas or candle lanterns for light.

Respect wildlife

Be considerate of other visitors