Standard Route - Sentinel Peak Rock Climb

GUIDED ASCENTS OF SENTINEL PEAK VIA THE STANDARD ROUTE

Sentinel Peak is located in the northern Kwa Zulu Natal Drakensberg and is one of the highest free-standing peaks of the range.(3166m or 10386ft) It was also the first major peak to be climbed via a rock climbing route. This was in 1910 by W. Wybergh and Lt. N.M. McLeod.

The Standard Route

This is a beginners’ route and a great introduction to mountaineering. The climb starts in an obvious recess on the west side of the Sentinel, about 100m above the contour path and about the same distance diagonally up the left slope from the neck between Sentinel and Beacon Buttress. Climbing the recess involves only one D grade pitch of about 15 meters (UK V Dif or US 5.4) . From this point it takes about 40 minutes to scramble to the summit. A rope is used on one section of the scramble. Clients need to be at least acquainted with belaying, knot tying and basic rope work.
McLeod’s Variation: It is possible to add another full pitch of climbing by doing this variation near the summit, which involves fairly strenuous climbing.

What to bring

Waterproof jacket, polar fleeces, gloves, hat, sun cream, full water bottle, snacks, torch, harness, helmet, and belay device.

When to visit

Sentinel can be visited at anytime of the year. However it is best during the autumn and winter months when there is a good chance of stable weather. During summer, afternoon rain can be a problem which means that an early start must be made.

About the guides:

The guiding is carried out by either Gavin Raubenheimer or Colin McCoy of Peak High Mountaineering.

Costs:

	1 person - pp	2 people - pp	3 people - pp	4 people - pp
Accommodation DBB & picnic lunch for 2 nights	R950.00	R875.00	R850.00	R840.00
Rock Climb with guide& entry fees	R2150.00	R850.00	R500.00	R375.00
Transport if necc. Return.	R1250.00	R625.00	R415.00	R315.00
Total package pp If all above required	R4350.00	R2350.00	R1765.00	R1530.00