Stargazing & Storytelling at Antbear Lodge – Drakensberg

In the heart of the Drakensberg, Antbear Eco Lodge offers a truly magical stargazing experience that blends African folklore, nature, and the brilliance of the night sky. Hosted by local storyteller Mlindeni Sithole, the Star Gazing Hammock Camp invites guests to step into an ancient tradition that has been passed down for generations.

After dinner, Mlindeni leads visitors from the lodge to a secluded hammock camp, thoughtfully prepared with blankets and hot water bottles. Under a canopy of stars, surrounded by the night sounds of the African bush, guests settle into hammocks as the evening unfolds. The crisp mountain air, the distant call of jackals, the hoot of owls, and the hum of insects create a backdrop that makes the experience immersive and unforgettable.

What sets this experience apart is not just the beauty of the Drakensberg sky, free from light pollution, but the cultural depth of the storytelling itself. Mlindeni shares the myths and legends of the constellations as told by his grandmother—tales of how the sun and moon found their place in the heavens, of the Milky Way stretching across the sky, and of the stars that guide hunters home. Each story connects guests to Africa’s rich oral traditions and offers a new perspective on the universe above.

The Star Gazing Hammock Camp is more than an activity—it’s a community initiative supported by Antbear Eco Lodge as part of its commitment to sustainable tourism. By empowering local entrepreneurs like Mlindeni, the lodge helps preserve cultural heritage while offering visitors an authentic and meaningful encounter with the Drakensberg night sky.

Whether you are a guest at the lodge or visiting from elsewhere, this unique blend of stargazing, storytelling, and cultural immersion promises an evening you’ll never forget.