The Cederberg Trail is a four-day, three-night slackpacking route through the private Klipopmekaar Wilderness near Clanwilliam in the northern Cederberg. Covering approximately 50 km, it combines sculpted sandstone formations, mountain fynbos, San rock art and seasonal waterfalls with comfortable overnight accommodation. Two shortcuts reduce the total distance to approximately 43 km.
Opening: Bookings are open, with the first trails scheduled to start on 1 July 2027.
About the trail
This purpose-built, clearly marked route is designed for private groups who want to explore the Cederberg carrying only a daypack. Personal duffel bags, food boxes and cooler boxes are transported between the three overnight camps, leaving hikers free to enjoy the landscape.
The standard option is self-guided and self-catered. Hikers bring their own food and drinks and prepare meals in the equipped camp kitchens. A guided and catered option is also advertised for 2027; contact the operator for availability and arrangements.
One private group starts each day. Groups normally comprise eight to twelve hikers, with each overnight camp reserved for the group. Smaller groups of two to seven can book at the minimum charge applicable to eight people.
Accommodation and slackpacking support
Each of the three camps is planned with six private pods. Each pod accommodates two people in single beds that can be joined into a king, with linen, an en-suite hot shower, basin and toilet. Hikers bring their own towels and toiletries.
Shared facilities include an equipped kitchen, lounge, dining area, braai deck and freshwater swimming pool. The camps have solar power, refrigeration, cooking facilities and drinking water. A daily luggage and food-box transfer service, trail briefing, maps and an emergency satellite phone are included in the standard trail offering.
Difficulty and best time to hike
The operator grades the route as moderately strenuous. Good general health and mountain-walking fitness are required, particularly for the full third day. Although the route requires no scrambling, there are stone staircases and a short ladder descent. River crossings may be necessary after rain, and the operator requires all hikers to be able to swim. The published age range is 10–70 unless otherwise agreed with the operator.
The trail is bookable throughout the year from its opening. Winter brings rainfall and colder nights; seasonal rivers and waterfalls generally flow from July to November. Spring flowers are a further attraction, while summer can be very hot. Waterfalls and river swimming depend on rainfall, and extreme heat or flood conditions may affect departures.
There is no reliable mobile reception or Wi-Fi on the route or at the overnight camps. Wi-Fi is available at the Visitors Centre, and each group receives a satellite phone for emergency use. Groups must stay together and follow the marked route. San rock paintings must not be touched.
