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Get answers toFrequently Asked Questions about Three Tree Hill

Below are some frequently asked questions that may assist you in making the right choice for your holiday.

When is the best time of year to visit the Drakensberg?

The lodge is open year-round, and each season offers a different experience:

  • Summer (October – April): Warm and green with afternoon thundershowers that quickly pass, cooling evenings and keeping rivers and waterfalls flowing.
  • Winter (June – September): Dry, crisp days with clear mountain views and cosy evenings around the fire. July to September are excellent for birdwatching, photography, and aloe flowering.

Our favourite months are May and November!

  • May: The best month for hiking — clear skies, green landscapes, flowing streams, and mild temperatures (around 26°C during the day).
  • November: Peak wildflower season, ideal for botany enthusiasts.



What is the best way to get to Three Tree Hill Lodge?

Three Tree Hill Lodge is easily accessible by road and is located near the base of Van Reenen’s Pass, just 27 km from the N3 highway, making it an ideal halfway stop between Johannesburg and Durban. 

Most guests arrive by rental car, but we can also arrange a private road transfer on request.

For guests travelling by air:

  • Fixed-wing private charters can land at Ladysmith Airport, the nearest airport, which has a 1.2 km asphalt runway. Road transfers can be arranged from there.
  • Helicopter charters can land directly at the lodge.
  • Coordinates: S 28°39’41.6” | E 29°29’13.6”
    Elevation: 1207 m


Do I need a 4×4 vehicle to reach the lodge?

No. A 4×4 vehicle is not required. The final 5 km is a well-maintained gravel road, suitable for standard vehicles.

What are your check-in and check-out times?

  • Check-in: From 14:00
  • Check-out: By 10:00

    Guests are welcome to arrive earlier and enjoy lunch between 13:00 and 14:30, which is included in the Full Board rate. We are flexible with early arrivals or late departures, subject to availability.

Do you cater for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or lactose-free diets?

Yes. We can provide wholesome, nutritious, tasty alternatives for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, and other dietary requirements, provided we are notified in advance.

What should I pack for my stay?

Dress at Three Tree Hill Lodge is casual and comfortable.

We recommend:

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • A light rain jacket (especially in summer)
  • Warm jacket or fleece for winter evenings
  • Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
  • Binoculars for birding and wildlife viewing

Is Three Tree Hill Lodge in a malaria area?

No. Three Tree Hill Lodge is not located in a malaria-free area.

Are children allowed at the lodge?

Yes. Children of all ages are welcome. We offer family-friendly accommodation in our two-bedroom family cottages.

We encourage nature-based activities, so there are no televisions or games rooms. Outdoor exploration is part of the experience, and child-minders can be arranged for evenings if parents would like some time to themselves.

See further detailed information if you are travelling with children  here

Do you offer Halaal or Kosher meals?

  • Halaal meals can be arranged with prior notice.
  • Unfortunately, we are not able to offer Kosher meals.

Should we bring our own drinking water?

No. The lodge has its own 12-metre-deep aquifer, providing excellent quality drinking water from all taps.

Do you have Wi-Fi at the lodge?

Yes. We offer farm-paced Wi-Fi in all cottages, as well as in the Molly Blackburn Library and deck area. Connectivity is suitable for basic browsing and communication.

Do you allow pets?

No. As the lodge is home to our own free-range cats, dogs, horses, and chickens, we are unfortunately unable to accommodate visiting pets.

Are you affected by load-shedding or power outages?

No. Three Tree Hill Lodge is solar-powered, with battery storage and generator backup for cloudy days. Power interruptions are minimal.

Why visit Three Tree Hill if I’m not interested in battlefields?

While the lodge is well known for battlefield history, many guests visit purely for nature and relaxation.

Activities include:

  • Mountain biking
  • Nature and game walks
  • Mountain hiking
  • Birdwatching
  • Horse trail riding
  • Cultural village visits
  • Additional nearby experiences include hot-air ballooning, helicopter flights, canopy tours, white-water rafting, wine tasting, and local craft and cultural attractions.



What is included in the Full Board rate?

The Full Board rate includes:

  • Accommodation
  • Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner
  • Teas and coffees
  • 15% VAT

Excluded:

  • Guided activities
  • Drinks
  • Community & conservation levy
  • Transfers and flights (can be arranged on request)

Do you offer SADC rates?

We offer tiered Last Minute Special Rates to all nationalities. Check out the specials online between 30 - 60 days from travel or email our reservations team.