Michaela Geytenbeek and Arno Pouwels are attempting something pretty unfathomable that will push the boundaries of human endurance and adventure. They will undertake an extreme version of the Drakensberg Grand Traverse (DGT), completing all the marked Drakensberg passes along the way and summiting the six iconic peaks that form part of the DGT. This audacious endeavor, which has never been attempted before, involves completing 107 passes, hiking 588 km, and conquering 60,173 meters of elevation gain, equivalent to climbing seven Everests, all within 40 days (weather permitting).
To grasp the scale of this undertaking, consider this: there are only four known individuals* who have completed over 100 Drakensberg passes – Clem Robins, Tony Marshall, Andrew Porter, and Jonathan Newman. It took them several years to achieve this monumental task. In an unparalleled bid, Michaela and Arno aim to accomplish this feat in just 40 days.
The Drakensberg passes vary dramatically in condition: from smooth, clear smuggling paths, to boulder-strewn gullies, steep pathless banks, and wildly overgrown corners. Additionally, these mountains are known for their unpredictable weather, which can include scorching heat, sudden severe thunderstorms, hail, lightning, and even snow. Michaela and Arno will face all of these challenges head-on.
*Extensive research and effort has gone into determening these four individuals. Please reach out to us if you know of anyone else.
