About

We are a backpacker hostel in South Africa, not far from the Sentinel car park and thus the ideal base from which to tackle the Amphitheatre (Tugela Falls) day hike, one of the Drakensberg's most thrilling. From the Sentinel parking area the path takes you to the top of the mountain via the Chain Ladders, where you can enjoy the breath-taking view and also visit Mont-aux-Sources and the top of the Tugela Falls.

Just off the route to the Sentinel car park, turning to Witsieshoek Resort, you can alternatively access many of the attractions of the Kwazulu-Natal's Royal National Park. In a different direction, Golden Gate National Park is also within easy reach and you can continue to Clarens, a lovely village know for the many art galleries and restaurants. A two or three-night stay is ideal to enjoy the attractions of both the Drakensberg and the Maluti Mountains.

We offer quiet, restful accommodation consisting of two double rooms; a triple bedroom ideal for a couple with a child's bed; a family room that sleeps four and lastly a dormitory that sleeps six on three bunk beds that is adjacent to its own ablution block.

We supply natural products such as home-made jams, marmelades and yoghurt as well as fresh produce from our own vegetable garden and orchard and the surrounding farmlands. We also have an exciting and fun bicycle Township Tour, running daily from our Backpackers. Be sure to book this on arrival.

We provide Internet access for free over Wi-Fi.

House Rules

Check In

0:00 - 23:00

Check Out

until

  • Credit Cards Accepted
  • Taxes Included
View House Rules

Facilities

  • Free Parking
  • Bicycle Parking
  • 24 Hour Reception
  • Postal Service
  • Parking
  • Internet access
  • BBQ
  • Tea & Coffee Making Facilities
View all facilities

Reviews

10Superb(164)
  • Value for Money
    10.0
  • Security
    10.0
  • Atmosphere
    10.0
  • Cleanliness
    10.0
  • Staff
    10.0
  • Location
    10.0
  • Facilities
    10.0
Summary of traveller reviews

Karma Backpackers in Drakensberg offers a wonderfully friendly atmosphere, making guests feel right at home. The owners provide excellent advice for exploring local national parks. Guests also appreciate the welcoming touches and the playful resident dogs.

Stayed in Apr 2025
8.3
J
Jonathan
All Male Group, 31-40, South Africa
We had a lovely stay at this backpackers! Vera was a great host and gave us good tips for where to explore in the area. We stayed in the family room over Easter weekend which was adequate for our needs.
Stayed in Oct 2024
9.4
S
Simon
Male, 41+, England
Great friendly place. Vera Ann and Lucio are very friendly and informative- and give you maps/ access to guidebooks for exploring Golden Gate and Royal Natal national parks. There are a couple of good walks in Golden Gate which is 40minutes drive away and another one accessed from Witsiehoek lodge on the edge of Royal Natal which is slightly further away. We stayed 4 days and felt very at home. Thanks for the eggs and the lovely marmalade
Stayed in Nov 2023
10
J
Jane
Female, 41+, England
We had two great nights with Vera…she was so welcoming…we had some good chats and she gave us top tips for walking. Her jams are delicious and she sent us off with some fresh eggs. Thank you Vera. Xxx
View all reviews

Location

2 Piet Retief St, Free State, Kestell, Drakensberg, South Africa
138km from city centre