Article by Rachel Hill
Are you considering a vacation in South Africa? Holidays in the Cederberg Wilderness area are an excellent choice if you enjoy hiking in the great outdoors. Located in the Northern Cape Region, the Cederberg Wilderness area is within easy reach of Cape Town. It is well known for its gorgeous, rugged scenery, its fantastic rock formations and ancient rock art, its beautiful streams and waterfalls, and its weird mountain flora. There are over 250 kilometres (155 miles) of paths in the mountains. The highest peaks are Snow Peak at 2028 m (6653 feet), and Table Peak at 1969 m (6460 feet). The most notable sandstone features include Lots Wife, the Wolfberg Arch, the Wolfberg Cracks, the Maltese Cross, the Town Hall, and the Valley of the Gods.
The Way In
Visitors enjoying their South Africa holidays in Cape Town who want to go to the Cederberg can go north on the N7 highway. Twenty-seven kilometres (16.7 miles) past Citrusdal turn right at the signpost marked Kriedouwkrans and Algeria. You will cross the Olifants River on a low bridge, and then go through the Nieuwoudt Pass into Algeria, which is the administrative centre for the Cederberg. All of the roads into the Cederberg are gravel and have very steep and twisting sections. Some of the steeper parts have been covered with tarmac. Sometimes in winter the bridge is covered with water so its a good idea to call the Cape Nature Conservation office in Algeria and ask about road and bridge conditions before you head off.Things You Should KnowWhen you are planning to spend some of your South Africa holidays hiking in the Cederberg Wilderness area, you must keep the climate in mind. During the summer, daytime temperatures are high and most of the streams and pools are dry, so remember to carry plenty of water. In the winter, you must be prepared to deal with heavy snowfalls. The best months for hiking are March to April, and September to December. In January and February its very hot, and from June through August theres snow on the high ground.
This is an official wilderness area, and you are allowed to walk and camp anywhere you like but there are rules to observe. Fires are not allowed, so overnight hikers must take gas or paraffin stoves. Dont leave behind litter, and if you find someone elses rubbish take it out with you. You can swim in the streams and pools, but do not wash in the waters with any kind of soap. The idea is to leave as little human footprint as possible.
There are recognised trails, but theyre not always easy to follow -maps are available at the Conservation office. Always carry a compass. There are 16 species of snakes in the mountains, including the venomous puff adder and berg adder, so wear strong hiking boots and check your camp at night. Also guard against baboons stealing food at night. Among the other animals that live here are klipspringers, duiker, and grey rhebok. There are leopards, too, but they are rarely seen. Bird lovers can watch for grey-wing francolin, Cape siskin, Cape sugarbird and Victorins warbler. The Cederberg is riddled with ancient San rock art, but the best way to see a good selection is to take the Sevilla Trail.
About the Author
Rachel Hill is a Southern Africa Travel specialist, a company specialising in luxury, tailor-made South Africa holidays as well as holidays to other destinations in Southern Africa. Our experienced consultants will help you design your very own luxury South Africa holiday, and will be happy to provide you with a free quote.
