Photos: Ezemvelo KZN WildlifeandGoogle
About this place
Monk's Cowl is a popular hiking base in the central Maloti-Drakensberg Park, beneath the iconic Champagne Castle and Cathkin Peak. Caves, day walks and a dam draw walkers and climbers; two campsites (with and without plug points) sit among the foothills. Operated by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. Rates are per campsite (Standard season) for the stated minimum, with a per-person supplement.
Amenities
Rock climbing
Mountain view
Nature trails
Bird watching
Scenic views
Hiking trails
Get to know where you stay
Keep exploring
Availability
Any available room
2 rooms, sleeps 6 to 6
Check-in
Select date
Check-out
Select date
October 2026
November 2026
A night is shown as unavailable only when every room is taken.
Where you'll sleep
Choose a room type. We confirm availability with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife once you send your dates.
Camping · 6 guests
Campsite without plug points (min 1 pax).
Nature
What lives at Monk's Cowl
17 animals, 30 birds and 13 trees and plants recorded here or nearby.
These are records, not promises. Wild animals and birds move, so sightings are never guaranteed.
About Cathkin Park
Important information
Check-in and check-outIn 14:00 · Out 10:00
Check-in Time
14:00 - 18:00
Please arrange your arrival within this time window. If you need to arrive outside these hours, please contact the host in advance.
Check-out Time
By 10:00
Please ensure you check out by this time to allow for cleaning and preparation for the next guests.
Cancellation and changes50% refund 30+ days
Refund schedule
- 50% refundcancel 30+ days before check-in
- No refundwithin 30 days of check-in
Please note that some accommodations may have their own specific cancellation policies that differ from our standard policy. These will be clearly indicated on the accommodation's page or during the booking process.
For any questions regarding cancellations or to request a cancellation, please contact our customer support team.
Pet policyNo pets
Pet policy
Pets are not allowed
Travel insuranceInformation only
Spekboom does not advise on, recommend, or sell insurance.
For information only: Expatriate Group provides travel, health and life cover for international travellers and can generate a quote online. Any policy is arranged and managed entirely by Expatriate Group.
See travel insurance quotesSpekboom Tree (Pty) Ltd is not a financial services provider and does not provide, recommend, or arrange financial or insurance products or advice. Expatriate Group (ref 30286D) is authorised and regulated to provide any quote, advice, or policy. Spekboom introduces interested customers to Expatriate Group and may receive a commission if cover is taken out through this link.
Before you book
Payment terms
Payment is required at the time of booking to secure your reservation.
Cancellation PolicyStrict
- 50% refundcancel 30+ days before check-in
- No refundwithin 30 days of check-in
Note: The 2.5% conservation contribution, payment processing fees, and any applicable referral commissions are non-refundable in the event of cancellation. Conservation contribution fees (2.5%) support conservation and community projects in the destinations you visit. Payment processing fees are absorbed by Spekboom for completed bookings, but cannot be recovered once a booking is cancelled. Referral commissions, where applicable, are paid to the referring party upon booking confirmation.
Payout Protection: Guest payments are held until the free cancellation window passes. This protects guests who cancel within their cancellation window and ensures hosts receive guaranteed payouts after the cancellation period ends.
House rules
Guests are expected to respect the house rules of each accommodation. These rules will be provided upon booking confirmation.
Check-in & Check-out
Check-in from 14:00 • Check-out by 10:00
Liability
Spekboom acts as an intermediary between guests and accommodation providers. While we strive to ensure accurate information, we cannot be held liable for any discrepancies or issues arising from the accommodation itself.
By making a booking through Spekboom, you agree to our Terms of Service (Version 3.5). You acknowledge that: (1) the 2.5% conservation contribution and payment processing fees are non-refundable in the event of cancellation (Spekboom absorbs payment processing fees for completed bookings); (2) Spekboom acts as an intermediary platform governed by South African law. For the complete terms and conditions, please visit our full Terms of Service page.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Monk's Cowl located?
Monk's Cowl is in Cathkin Park, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The map on this page shows the area.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Monk's Cowl?
Check-in is from 14:00 and check-out is by 10:00. Contact the camp directly if you need to arrange early check-in or late check-out.
How many guests can Monk's Cowl accommodate?
Campsite (with plug points) (18 of them) sleeps 6 each and Campsite (without plug points) (15 of them) sleeps 6 each.
How do I book Monk's Cowl?
Pick dates on this Spekboom page and request availability. We confirm with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, they assign the unit, then you pay on Spekboom.
Book your stay
Request availability. Send your dates and we will confirm availability with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife.
Staying at more than one place?
Want to find out more?
Ask Dassie anything about this place or the area.