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Drakensberg, a mountain region that lies almost directly in the center of South Africa, is home to the largest peaks in the country. It’s unique geological history explains the many rock formations and abundance of rock. In both the Pre-Cambrian and Palaeozoic Eras, natural events helped to form and shape the mountains. In the Pre-Cambrian Era, volcanic activity in the area of South Africa led to layers and layers of lava covering the entire South African sub-continent. During the Palaeozoic Era, sedimentary sandstone and mudstone were laid over the already-formed volcanic layers, thus creating the peaks of the mountains. In modern times, much erosion has worn down the ancient mountains and exposed some of the underlying rocks. Among the most common yet unique rocks is basalt, pictured below.
Apart from the significant rock formations, the Drakensberg mountain ranges and towns are said to be some of the most tranquil and scenic in the world. From the raging peaks, to the streams, to the green fields, these mountains are home to many resorts and visitors.
God’s Window is situated on the Drakensberg escarpment in Mpumalanga. With magnificent views, canyons, rock formations and waterfalls, God’s Window is truly an area of breathtaking scenic splendor. Gods Window is so famous for the panoramic view of the Lowveld more than half a mile down into lush indigenous forest clad ravine. God’s Window is a small part of a 150 mile long earthwork of sheer cliffs and extravagant beauty. You will be able to see the hills and forests as far as your eye can see.
God’s Window plays an important role in the plot of the 1980 film, The Gods Must Be Crazy. Near the end of the movie, the main character, Xi, travels to God’s Window, which believes he is the end of the Earth, so he returns the Coke bottle to the gods.
The Drakensberg Boys’ Choir School is a musical boarding school located in the Drakensberg Mountain range and internationally known for their excellence. The school combines both regular school learning classes and choir rehearsals. It’s goal is not only to perform superbly but also to spread musicianship and key life lessons to its students. The Drakensberg Choir states: “The mission of the Drakensberg Boys Choir School is to prepare boys for life and leadership through excellence in music, academics, sport and social enrichment in a Christian environment.”
The Drakensberg Boy Choir School has been teaching boys to sing for 43 years. Created and run originally by the Tungay family in 1967, it is now run by a board of directors. The school accepts up to 120 boys, ages 9 – 15. They have a scheduled rehearsal every day, but according to the boys who homestayed with KSB, the director may call a rehearsal any time the spirit moves him.
Stay at “Dragon Peaks” This is owned by the same family who began the Drakensberg Boy Choir.
Resources
Drakensberg – Wikipedia
Drakensberg Boy Choir School – Wikipedia
Drakensberg Boy Choir School Website