The Game Pass Shelter hike in the Kamberg Nature Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, provides a remarkable experience combining natural beauty, cultural history, and spiritual insight. As one of Southern Africa’s most significant San rock art sites, the shelter, alongside the Kamberg Rock Art Centre, reveals the profound spiritual beliefs and artistic heritage of the San people. Often described as the “Rosetta Stone” of San rock art interpretation, Game Pass Shelter holds immense historical and cultural significance.
The Kamberg Nature Reserve, part of the Maloti-Drakensberg UNESCO World Heritage Site, features over 30,000 examples of San rock art. These ancient works, some thousands of years old, played a critical role in the Drakensberg’s World Heritage status. Among them, Game Pass Shelter stands out for its vivid depictions of the eland, a creature central to the San’s spiritual practices.
The Hike and Landscape
The Game Pass Shelter Hike is an eight-kilometre trail winding through the picturesque Kamberg Nature Reserve. This journey, which takes about three hours to complete, involves a moderate elevation gain of 338 meters and is suited to hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Along the trail, walkers encounter captivating scenery, including rolling hills, dramatic mountain views, and tranquil landscapes. Key points of interest include Waterfall Cave, home to faded examples of San art, and a cascade of waterfalls adding a serene touch to the route.
The Game Pass Shelter hike is guided by James Seymour, an expert in mountain, nature, and cultural tours. His deep knowledge enhances the journey, offering engaging insights into the region’s unique heritage, from its natural wonders to the stories and beliefs of the San people.
Interpreting the Rock Art
The paintings at Game Pass Shelter exemplify the San people’s rich artistry and deep connection to their environment. Central to their art is the eland, a symbol of sustenance, fertility, healing, and spiritual transformation. These paintings often depict rituals in which the eland plays a pivotal role, reflecting its significance in daily life and spiritual practices.
The site has been key in understanding San rock art, with anthropologists, such as David Lewis-Williams, uncovering the meanings behind these intricate works. The paintings illustrate trance rituals performed by shamans, showcasing figures in altered states of consciousness as they connect with the spiritual realm. These practices were integral to the San’s traditions, helping to heal, maintain harmony, and navigate the physical and spiritual worlds.
A Guided Experience
Access to Game Pass Shelter is only possible with registered guides who provide detailed interpretations of the art and the surrounding area. Drakensberg Walking Excursions, led by guides like James Seymour, ensure an enriching experience highlighting the art’s cultural, artistic, and historical significance.
Game Pass Shelter is more than just an archaeological site; it is a gateway to understanding the San people’s worldview and artistic legacy. The intricate paintings and spiritual narratives found here deepen visitors’ appreciation for one of humanity’s oldest and most profound cultures.
Email me at james@cathkinmanagement.com if you are interested in this hike.
Drakensberg Walking Excursions 