Cederberg

Cederberg is a mountain range in Western Cape featuring dramatic sandstone cliffs, deep valleys, and natural pools scattered throughout the protected wilderness. The landscape shifts from jagged peaks to verdant ravines, creating varied terrain across the protected area.

The San people created rock art throughout these mountains thousands of years ago, depicting scenes from their daily life and spiritual beliefs in stone. These paintings show that the region has been home to humans for an extremely long time.

Local residents have long relied on rooibos tea cultivation, which thrives naturally only in these mountains and has been processed using traditional methods passed down through families. This plant is so tied to the land that you'll find it nowhere else growing wild.

Visitors can explore marked hiking trails of varying difficulty and find camping spots and rock climbing areas throughout the region. Check local conditions before visiting since weather changes quickly in mountains and some areas may require permits.

Several wineries produce wine at high elevation throughout the region, making it an unexpected wine destination despite being known primarily for its rugged mountain terrain. These elevated vineyards are rare and demonstrate the diverse agricultural uses of the land.

Location: Western Cape

Inception: 1973

Elevation above the sea: 1,318 m

Part of: Cape Floristic Kingdom

Website: http://capenature.org.za/reserves.htm?reserve=Cederberg+Wilderness+Area

GPS coordinates: -32.33330,19.08330

Latest update: December 22, 2025 13:13