Time has made its mark here. Rocky outcrops bear the scars of centuries of erosion, forming the ultimate cliff faces for climbing. The endangered Clanwilliam cedar grows along the crags, giving the Cederberg its name. Located 200 kilometres outside of Cape Town, this region calls you back to the wilderness.
In the northern area of this semi-desert lies Rocklands, known worldwide for its bouldering opportunities. People flock here to test their strength, gripping the sandstone rocks. It’s a delicate skill. Suspended metres from the ground without ropes, their fingers must cling to the surface. With thousands of climbs to choose from, each more challenging than the next, it’s best to spend a few days here. Most accommodation in the area is right at the foothills of the mountains, with places like de Pakhuys and Alpha Excelsior Guest Farm providing quick access.
But the Cederberg isn’t just for climbers. A four-kilometre waterfall trail along the Brandewyn River shows off the raw beauty of the region, while the Sevilla Rock Art Trail exhibits its man-made wonders. The route takes you to nine San art sites, which contain some of the hundreds of ancient paintings in the area. Keep an eye out for the wildlife as well. Birds, reptiles, and predators such as Cape foxes, genets, and even leopards roam the terrain – though they’re seldom spotted.
A network of paths covers the Cederberg Wilderness Area. Spanning 71 000 hectares, the rough-hewn landscape features towering rock formations such as the Wolfberg Arch and Maltese Cross. Take a camera along to capture the haphazard shapes. Cape Nature protects and conserves this natural expanse, providing permits to adventure here. Rugged yet breathtaking, the Cederberg is a refuge for rock climbers, hikers, and nature lovers alike.
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