In the Cederberg, nature has carved out a mountainous playground. Named after the endangered Clanwilliam cedar trees, the rust-coloured region bursts with dreamy boulders and 71 000 hectares of indigenous wilderness. Escape to its pristine cliffs and experience life on the edge.
GO: Just 250 kilometres from Cape Town, this countryside is a haven for climbers and hikers. Pack up your gear and head inland along the N7.
SEE: The Cederberg’s rustic beauty has been sculpted over aeons. Receive a permit from Cape Nature and venture into the Cederberg Wilderness Area for a taste of this rough-hewn realm. From the Dwarsrivier Farm, wind your way through scenic paths to several rock formations such as the 30-metre high Maltese Cross and the stately Wolfberg Cracks and Arch.
Forming part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, this region sprouts fynbos found nowhere else on Earth. Amble through the reserve and spot fluffy snow proteas and red disa orchids creeping out from the crags. Local birdlife and antelope are frequently sighted in this area, while Cape foxes, armadillo lizards, and leopards make a rare appearance.
Discover the ancient artistry of the Khoisan at Traveller’s Rest Farm. Here, hike the Sevilla Rock Art Trail and explore nine different sites which safeguard some of the region's centuries-old bushmen paintings.
DO: Renowned for its challenging sandstone slabs, the Rocklands site has become a bouldering mecca. Peppered with thousands of climbs, it’s the ideal place to chalk up and get lost in the intricate cracks for hours on end.
Give your hands a break on the tranquil Waterfall Trail. Pass by rooibos tea fields and endemic flora along Brandewyn River before cooling down beside a stream of cascading water.
Bordered off from civilisation, the Cederberg lights up every night with myriad stars. Peer through a giant telescope at the Cederberg Astronomical Observatory for a glimpse into the Milky Way.
The Cederberg brims with gripping adventures and untouched beauty. Trek through this rugged piece of paradise and uncover a new perspective.
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