Travel north from Cape Town and over the Piekenierskloof Pass beyond Piketberg and you descend into a different world. You are only two hours drive from Cape Town and yet the country has changed; wilder, warmer with a raw, dramatic beauty. Towering mountains, brilliant purple in the late afternoon light, preside over a fruit-filled valley laden with the scent of orange blossom in the spring.


The majestic and rugged Cederberg Mountains are a gigantic mass of sandstone, richly coloured by iron oxides and eroded into a variety of strange shapes. This 100-km long range rises splendidly above the vineyards and citrus groves of the Olifants River valley. The Cederberg is most famous for these unique rock formations as well as for fine examples of San (Bushmen) rock paintings and spectacular wild flowers in spring (early/mid August to early September). Most of it is a designated Wilderness area and thus remains one of the most undisturbed areas of the country. The hiking trails of the Heritage Route aim to make this beautiful area accessible to walkers via the use of charming community guest cottages in the Moravian Mission villages of Heuningvlei, Brugkraal and Wupperthal on the eastern side of the Wilderness area and other guesthouses in or near Clanwilliam on the western side.

•Gabriel Trail (4 Nights) is a carefully designed multi-day hiking experience that traverses the breathtaking Cederberg Wilderness, offering hikers the opportunity to explore a region renowned for its dramatic sandstone formations, ancient rock art, and vibrant cultural heritage. This trail, part of the Cederberg Heritage Route, connects remote villages and highlights the interplay between natural beauty and human history in this untamed landscape.

The trail features guided hikes that range from moderate to challenging, taking participants through rugged mountain passes, secluded valleys, and along pristine streams. The paths, often stony and uneven, reveal awe-inspiring vistas and unique geological formations shaped over millennia. Each day’s walk is enhanced by opportunities to explore the area’s rich biodiversity, including endemic plant species and stunning wildflowers in season.

What sets the Gabriel Trail apart is its integration with local communities. Hikers stay in village homesteads or campsites, immersing themselves in the daily lives of the Moravian mission villages such as Langkloof, Eselbank, and Kleinvlei. These stops provide a glimpse into the traditions of the region, with warm hospitality, homemade meals, and insights from local trail escorts who share their knowledge of the area.

The journey also includes notable highlights like the dramatic Eselbank Waterfall, the serene Langkloof valley, and the Sevilla Rock Art Trail, where ancient San paintings tell stories of the past. The inclusion of donkeys to carry luggage on the more remote sections of the trail adds to the charm and authenticity of the experience.

With its blend of physical challenge, natural splendor, and cultural immersion, the Gabriel Trail is more than just a hike—it’s an invitation to connect deeply with the heart of the Cederberg. This adventure offers a unique way to appreciate the region’s wilderness and its people, leaving hikers with unforgettable memories and a profound sense of place.

•Cederberg 100 km walk (8 nights) is an unforgettable journey into one of South Africa’s most dramatic and culturally rich landscapes. Starting in the charming town of Clanwilliam, the trail unfolds across rugged mountain paths, serene valleys, and remote mission villages. Each day offers a distinct adventure, with hikes ranging from 8 to 16 kilometers and traversing varied terrains, including stony trails, river crossings, and steep mountain climbs. The scenery is breathtaking, with vast sandstone formations, ancient mountain passes, and pristine natural pools. Along the way, hikers have the chance to marvel at well-preserved San rock art, offering a glimpse into the lives of the region’s earliest inhabitants.

The trail is punctuated by visits to small, off-the-grid villages like Heuningvlei, Wupperthal, and Eselbank, where the rhythm of life remains deeply connected to the surrounding wilderness. These stops provide an authentic look at the history and traditions of the Cederberg region. Nights are spent in a combination of community-run guesthouses and traditional homestays, offering simple yet comfortable accommodations filled with warmth and hospitality. Travelers enjoy hearty, home-cooked meals that celebrate local flavors and ensure hikers are well-fueled for each day’s journey.

One of the highlights of the hike is its seamless organization, with luggage transported separately, allowing participants to focus on the journey with just a day-pack. The trail strikes a perfect balance between physical challenge, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. Whether traversing rocky ridges, swimming in secluded pools, or sharing stories over dinner with local hosts, the experience offers a deep connection to the landscapes, history, and people of the Cederberg Wilderness.

**NOT dog friendly**