Drakensberg Soaring Club – Gliding in the Southern Drakensberg

Set just 8 km outside the scenic town of Underberg in KwaZulu-Natal, the Drakensberg Soaring Club offers a truly unique aviation adventure in the foothills of the Southern Drakensberg. Operating from a private farm known as “Utopia Base,” the club provides visitors with the rare opportunity to experience the quiet thrill of unpowered flight in one of South Africa’s most beautiful landscapes.

Gliding here is all about pure flight. With no engine noise, just wind and lift, visitors are taken into the skies in two-seater training gliders flown by experienced and qualified instructors. Air experience flights are available for those wanting to try soaring for the first time, giving guests a safe and unforgettable introduction to the sport.

The club operates from two well-maintained grass runways, used for both winch launching and occasional aerotow operations when required. These launch methods allow gliders to be smoothly and efficiently released into the sky, where pilots use thermal currents and ridge lift to stay airborne.

The Drakensberg Soaring Club is also a welcoming base for visitors, with a relaxed, social atmosphere and a strong focus on promoting the sport of gliding. Facilities include a fully equipped clubhouse suitable for day visits or overnight stays, making it ideal for weekend aviation escapes. Accommodation includes dormitory-style lodging as well as private rooms, along with shared kitchen facilities.

Whether you are an aviation enthusiast or simply looking for a different kind of adventure in the Drakensberg, gliding at Utopia Base offers a peaceful yet exhilarating experience high above the mountains.